The University of Georgia

Date: Aug 23 2005
Major: Business - Management and Administration (This Major's Salary over time)
Now that you are out in the field, how has your college helped/hurt you?

Without a doubt I would have to say that choosing the University of Georgia was quite beneficial to my post-college success. The main reason for that can be attributed to the balance that UGA offers. I work in a very social field, but one that also requires the knowledge of business structures and processes. Socially UGA had many outlets in which to develop the needed skill sets I currently use. From the numerous different clubs and organizations, to a top rated athletic program and its events, the university has something for everyone. Couple that with being in Athens, a “true” college town with a renowned music scene and a multitude of nightlife offerings, and the different social avenues an individual can take are endless. That being said the main focus of any incoming student should be academics and the highly regarded Terry College of Business gave me the strong foundation that I lean on every day in my chosen profession. Terry College had very few classes that I deemed as being to large in size so I felt comfortable with the amount of attention that I was given. I also enjoyed the fact that the professors had experience in their respective fields which they drew from to give us actual scenarios rather than theoretical studies. Without that perfect balance that UGA offered me socially and academically I do not know that I would be where I am at today.

What do you think you should have known/done?

On the negative side I did think that more career guidance should have been offered. I feel as though with the number of different career paths that are available that it should have been more of a focus, but I carry the majority of the weight of that blame. More encouragement to explore how the career center can assist a student should be given to freshman upon entering the university. I wish that I would have known how important of a tool that the career center could have been, because I did not use it to its full potential. I was quite lucky in finding what I feel is my calling, but I know numerous others who are still trying to figure that out to this day.

What do you recommend H.S or college students do?

For those individuals still contemplating on what university to attend I recommend that they prepare a list of what they think that they are looking for in a university. Do not put all of your emphasis on only the social atmosphere or the academic standing. It is important that the college fits your personality, but it must also help you achieve the goals that you have established. After you believe that you have found your best match go back and question your conclusion. You must consider everything (weather, location to home, ease of travel, etc.). You should also visit multiple campuses. I for one had determined where I felt that wanted to attend until my last visit changed all of that. Without having have had that visit my life would be far different now, and I cannot see myself being as content. Get involved early. The campus will feel a lot smaller and more like home the quicker that you do this. Finally, actually open the student handbook that you will be given and highlight areas of interest and university outlets that can help you achieve success both in and out of the classroom. Use all the materials at your disposal to ensure both your collegiate and post-collegiate lives will be a success.

For those of you already in college, again, use all of the resources offered by your university. Go to the career center early and often to help ensure that you make a good and informed decision on how you start your life after college. Develop relationships with your professors. They know a lot about companies within your field of study, can offer great advice, and serve as a strong reference. Also, take in as much of the campus life that you can because if you don’t you will have regrets.