Think about it…college classes are your main storyline with the lectures, exams, and grades. What doesn’t get talked about as much is how every great storyline has to have an equally great side quest. That’s exactly what professional development events represents at ISU. Your transcript may not show your attendance record at these events, but attendance gives you a leg up when you step into the professional world. It will equip you with connections with professionals, tangible skills, and confidence to carry yourself in these business situations.
Turning Experiences Into Your “Highlight Reel”
When you look back at what you did in college, you’ll be surprised that the day-to-day classes will eventually fade away and your experiences will fill the “highlight reel” of your college experience. Whether you are practicing interviews, listening to a panel of speakers, or navigating the Etiquette Dinner, you are collecting experiences that teach valuable lessons. Employers will look to see if you got more than a degree and see how you stand out from the crowd. These small but powerful experiences are the kind of behind-the-scenes work that prepare you for the big stage.
Networking as “Unlocking Side Quests”
Professional development events is full of hidden treasures ready to be explored. Meeting a recruiter at the Career Fair or striking up a conversation with a speaker after a panel discussion may feel like a “side quest”, but in the end these kinds of relationships pay out big rewards. A simple conversation could result in a mentorship, internship, or advice that could define your path. Just like in a game, the more side quests you unlock, the stronger your main story becomes.
Future You Will Thank Present You
Your future self is hoping you make their life a little easier. In other words, the effort you put in now saves you major stress later. When you are investing a little time in polishing your resume or confidently introducing yourself to business/firms, you’re giving “future you” a massive advantage. It may feel inconvenient right now, but it will pay off 5 years down the road as you know how to advocate for yourself for a job or promotion. By the time graduation rolls around, you’re ready, steady, and moving ahead into your future.
At this very moment, all our timelines are intersecting here at ISU. We find ourselves on our own journeys to become better, smarter, more confident, and more prepared for our future careers. We may think our journey should only include the main storyline of lectures and exams, but events such as the ones in professional development month are relevant side quests that make the main storyline way more rewarding. Don’t skip it…your future self will thank you.