I was recently interviewed by a freshman at my alma mater, The University of Dayton. Lacy asked me a list of questions about my UD studies and career path.  A thought-provoking question was what advice I would give to her as a current freshman, before she even selects her business major.

Here are a couple ideas I gave her:

• Stay curious.
• Step outside your comfort zone.
• Join a club, a sport, a sorority, volunteer—something that interests you.
• If there is a class that sparks your interest, even outside your major, take it. 
• Get a paid internship.  Or two.
• Say hi to a stranger.  Interact with people who are from different backgrounds.
• Travel. Study abroad, if you can.
• Even after graduation, keep learning.

This might be more life advice than career advice, but I think they go together.   I told her I am still figuring out my next steps! I told her I participated in a Northwestern University program earlier this year for women who want to be on board of directors, attend industry events, and read.

Lacy thought she would likely create a LinkedIn profile during a class.  I told her to start connecting with people as soon as she has one.  Many people use the platform to boost their careers, and you never know who might help you along the way.

What other advice might you give to a freshman in college, starting on her career journey?

Go Flyers! The journey continues. Cindy