Before They Toss The Cap
Four years ago they walked through the double doors of this school with minds full of questions. Some had a clear path in mind; others had no idea which direction to take. Some were filled with hope, while others carried anxiety. But all of them shared one mission: to navigate the next four years in the best way possible.
It wasn’t easy. They faced countless struggles, experienced moments of pure joy, and went through days—maybe even weeks or months—without a single smile reaching their eyes. They wrestled with doubt and confusion, all while trying to hold on to their vision and believe in themselves.
That was four years ago.
Now, as the semester draws to a close and they prepare to walk back through those same double doors—this time for the last time—things are different. Their minds are no longer filled with questions but with answers. The quiet thoughts they once whispered to themselves have grown into lessons, reflections, and advice worth sharing.
I asked a few graduating students to share the most valuable advice they would give to those who haven’t yet tossed their caps into the air. Some are graduating from this school, while others are finishing their journeys at different universities—but no matter where they’re coming from, what they have to say is something you need to hear.
For privacy’s sake, I’ll be using the first letter only.
M: Find a mentor you connect with. It’s important to seek advice from people who are already walking the path you want for yourself.
K: Have a plan and some goals. You don’t need to know all the nitty-gritty details of what you want out of school and life but have some idea. If you’re unsure, go speak to academic advisors—don’t be shy. They’re literally there to help you.
R: “Intern, intern... and don’t forget to intern.” Whatever industry you’re eyeing will appreciate you so much more if you come in with experience. A 4.0 GPA is great, but did you apply that knowledge outside the classroom? Internships also help you figure out which part of the industry actually fits you—or maybe even that it doesn’t, and that’s okay too.
D: Learn to be by yourself. Having friends is great, but you need to teach yourself how to enjoy your own company just as much as you enjoy others'.
C: Constantly thinking or saying negative things about yourself isn’t cute—cut it out. You’d never speak to someone you love with so much negativity, so why are you doing it to yourself? You’re someone worth loving too.
C/N: Please don’t procrastinate—seriously. Get on top of your assignments as soon as they’re given. Go to office hours—your professors want to help you.
A: I don’t know if you realize this, but there’s life outside of school. Take advantage of it. Go out with friends, rest, create a routine, and enjoy your year—it goes by so fast.
L: You’re allowed to change any area of your life you feel needs changing. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Also, accept that people change—and that’s okay. Life isn’t meant for us to stay stuck in the same place forever.
