Tips to Survive and Thrive as a Freshman Communications Major

 

With my second semester well underway at Clemson University, I have discovered college life is invigorating, intense, and irreplaceable. I am pleased that I chose communications as my major and want to share my insights on my experience so far. Here are my tips on how to survive and thrive as a freshman communications major:

1. Be Focused

College is the time to discover and explore who we are, what we want, and where we want to go.  Self-reflecting on these concepts is a necessary component to being focused. What strengths can I utilize? What areas can be improved? How can I contribute to my community? What are my goals? How can I achieve my goals? When we constantly ask ourselves these questions, we become more focused in our work and are in a better position to attain both short and long-term goals.

2. Develop a Go-getter Mindset

As a Freshman communication major, we must plan our steps to achieve our goals.  Along with being focused, a go-getter mindset enables us to pursue passions, be resourceful, and stay on track.  While we might not reach every goal, we can make valuable connections with peers, faculty, and our community in the process.  We must put ourselves out there and do what we do best… communicate! Taking initiative is the best way to make things happen.  Everyone is bound to make mistakes along the way, but as the saying goes, “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again!”

3. Seek Opportunities

Communications is what you make it. We should seek experiences outside of the classroom in order to implement what we learn in the classroom.  Every organization benefits from strong communications. Start practicing and strengthening communication skills to take into a career in the communications field.  Enter a public speaking contest, apply for an internship, perform in the arts, join Greek life, publicize an organization in which you are part, or simply work on interpersonal skills in social settings.

4. Don’t Overload Yourself

Now this is one I struggle most with myself! While we should strive to do more than just excel in the academic classroom, we should not take on more than we can handle.  Freshman year is the time to gain insight into the field of communications and in which areas we are best suited. Remember we cannot do everything. Let me say that again…we cannot do everything. Learning time management and prioritizing involvement may be some of the most useful skills we can develop as communications majors.


 

Written By: Brooke Tannehill
2/22/2018

 

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