I remember that Commencement was not the end of something but the beginning. As I begin to post social media words of support to the individual students that impacted our alumni program I reflected on what advice to give them. Here is what I came up with:
10. Be yourself and no one else. Don't be who they want to be because you will end up unhappy in the end.
9. Always set your goals to the sky, that way if you don't reach them you will still be high above others that have low expectations.
8. With number 9 being said everything cannot be set at level 10, even if your amp goes up to 11 (see Spinal Tap video) there are times that you need that extra push to get it to the next level. Stop, think and be creative. Prioritize the things that you are juggling and perhaps drop something so that the more important things can be successful.
7. Be a team player and a team leader by listening to your co-workers and working together to achieve the goals.
6. Be creative and think outside the box.
5. I have heard many versions of this statement: "I missed all the shots I didn't take..." Take your shots! Don't be afraid to voice your opinions and start new ideas.
4. "Life is like a box of chocolates...you never know what you are going to get" This is true but you can make the decision to keep eating or move onto another piece in the box.
3. Take the chance and follow your dreams. College is not the end of the best days of your life it is Graduation is the beginning of all the possible things you can become.
2. Take the time to say thank you and mean it. Appreciate those around you. Everyone from the President of the corporation to the person that cleans up after hours. Go out of your way to notice what they do and acknowledge them. Remember the Butterfly Effect and Paying it Forward.
1. Remember your roots. Those that were with you in your life at college and even before then. This is your network foundation for the future. Don't forget to stay connected because you never know when that internship you had, that class you took or that person you knew would be the direct connection to the new opportunity you want to take.
Congratulations Class of 2017 I can't wait to see what the future you will build.