7 answers
7
Updated 538 views

What is one piece of advice you would give oncoming college freshmen when it comes to career preparation?

As an oncoming college freshman, I would like to know what I can do in order to start preparing for a successful career path, even now. #Spring25

career college career-path career-choice higher-education college-freshman freshmanincollege
Answer This
7

7 answers

0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Matt’s Answer

We all reflected that we were not thinking about career prep– but focus on exploration, learning what your interests are across lots of topics. Many roles are cross functional these days, so it’s important to explore connectivity across industries or types of programs.
Early in your college journey, you may have lots of general coursework – so don’t feel like you have to get too specialized too early.
College can feel very difficult to navigate through without a clear plan. Sometimes the pressure can feel overwhelming early on, so my advice would be to have a plan with what you want to do – or give yourself space to think about that plan before jumping into a four year degree.
Practice public speaking and collaboration. Those skill sets will give you an advantage among your peers.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Nicholas’s Answer

When you're early in the stages of planning your career, be open to different paths you may not have previously considered. You may find that a course you take outside of your initial field brings you more satisfaction than you'd previously assumed. Being flexible with new opportunities and trying out new things during this early phase in your career will help lead you to the roles that bring you the most fulfillment. Be flexible with your reality and expect to change your mind. Don't be afraid to fail or take risks, each offers a learning opportunity and its easier to pivot earlier in your career.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Roujean’s Answer

Start building skills, time management habits, and confidence now—not later.

College isn’t just about what you major in. It’s about what you learn to manage. Learn how to manage your time well, follow through on commitments, and get comfortable asking for help when you need it. These habits are the foundation of career success—no matter what field you go into.

Also, focus on building real skills that employers care about:
-- Writing clearly
-- Communicating ideas
-- Leading a project
-- Using tools like Excel, Canva, or AI (yes—practice using ChatGPT as a learning tool!)

And most importantly—practice confidence. Confidence isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about trusting that you can figure things out. Every time you speak up in class, ask a question, or try something new—you’re growing that muscle.

You don’t need to have your entire career figured out yet. Just start showing up as someone who’s learning, growing, and willing to try. That’s what gets noticed.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Leah’s Answer

You don't have to stay with just one thing or field you think you want to do! Be open to trying new classes and exploring different career paths. What you choose in the end might be totally different. Allow yourself the freedom to explore other interests as you go through the years.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Chanyapatch’s Answer

Focus on your studies and find out what kind of work you like to do. Study, research and find a mentor. Study people who have been successful in the work you like. During the internship period before graduation, study the work from ิีbuddy or your mentor.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Nivedita’s Answer

I want to advise you to be open to change and take pressure off. eventually eveything falls into place. People change, so does their ideas adn interests. Be flexible.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Misha’s Answer

Talk to people who are in the industry of your interest. Understand the upsides and the downsides that will help to either solidify or course-correct where you want to go.

Capture internships and apply early. Get a recommendation the minute the internship ends. Make connections at college – not just in your career field, but in your passion. Your next job connection might be someone you met at the Ballroom Dance Club!

Don’t focus on money – focus on your skills, your passions, what your role models are doing. Don’t worry about the starting salary or the growth pattern. The money will come if you’re passionate.

College teaches you how to learn, but it doesn’t give you the finished product. Knowing how to learn is the skill that will take you the furthest!

On behalf of Cloudera New Hires: Alan, Rameez, Laura, Jeana, and Hilary

Misha recommends the following next steps:

Make LinkedIn connections
Find local career events
Look for local internships
Join social clubs
0