Pack Your Bags- Traveling in College

Photo credit: huffpost.com

When you arrive at college, you realize the world’s so much bigger than your hometown. And then you step into class or the student union and realize it’s even bigger than this. You’re surrounded by students from across the country and around the world, learning from professors and faculty that have seen and done more than you could imagine. You may start to wonder when (or how) you’ll get to see the national parks, state capitals, and international cities that textbooks detail and teachers bring alive in class discussions. College is the perfect time to travel domestically and internationally, expose yourself to different cultures, and have some of your own adventures. These opportunities are definitely in during your next four years. Here are some options to consider when thinking about traveling in college:

• Study Abroad- what could be better than spending three months in a foreign country, taking your typical college classes with a view of international cities outside your classroom window? Studying abroad allows you to explore and immerse yourself in another culture, learning its values and gaining a global perspective. Many colleges have programs in Europe and every other continent. Contact your school’s study abroad or external programs office to learn what options they offer and how to participate. In many cases, tuition and room and board remain the same whether you’re on campus or in another country. Extra costs come through travel fees set by the school to get you back and forth and any traveling you decide to do on your own (hello summer job!) Hint: if your school doesn’t have a program to your dream destination, there’s often an option of transferring to a different school’s program as long as you work it out with your college. (And if you need any other reasons to convince you to study abroad, this HuffPost article gives you six more!)
• Alternative Spring Break- while we all want (and deserve) a break after the agony that is midterms, volunteering your time through an alternative spring break program is a worthy and fulfilling reason to skip relaxing. Alternative spring breaks started in the 1970s at Georgetown University, though the term for the program was born at Vanderbilt University in the 1980s, according to The Washington Post. Spending the week rebuilding homes, teaching English, or working on conservation projects will give you a fresh perspective on issues you may have discussed in class and connect you with the people dealing and working to solve these problems every day. While these trips are hardly glamorous, participants leave gaining more knowledge about their world and developing a sense of community and understanding with the people they work with. Trips like these are usually funded through your school or through fundraising, so students typically pay a small fee (or no fee at all!). In many cases, it’s cheaper than buying a plane ticket home to see family, and an important and worthwhile cause to put the money towards! If your school doesn’t have a program in place, this list fromYahoo! provides several sites to help you start your journey.
• Volunteer Abroad-if you decide after an alternative spring break program that volunteering is your passion, spend your summer volunteering abroad! Plenty of opportunities exist outside of the U.S. to do similar projects in communities in South America, Africa, and Europe. They’ll provide you with insight into the lives of people around the world and may change the way you think. Read this USA Today piece by a college student of what he discovered while teaching in South Africa.

Sources:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/03/16/AR2010031603834_2.html

Dealing With Change

Our blogs over the past few months show that college comes with a lot of “new:” new classes, new environment, new friends. For the first time you may really feel like an adult, taking charge of everyday choices you may not have thought about as a high school student. But without the familiarity and comforts of home, it may seem impossible to face all these changes, let alone handle them. However, with some perspective (and these handy tips from The Huffington Post), you’ll find you can handle anything this new phase of your life will bring.

Photo credit: The Huffington Post

Accept It: The first step is realizing that your life won’t be the same—and that’s okay! Denying or ignoring the change won’t make it go away. Focus on all that’s new and exciting at college—opportunities, friends, snacks at 2 am—instead of what’s at home.

Reflect: Taking a moment to pause and think about what’s going on is extremely important. Whether it’s talking with a school therapist or family member, going for a walk, or meditating, reflecting on what’s changed will help you sort through the chaos. It will give you the opportunity to figure out what about the change bothers you and provide different ways to look at the situation.

Baby Steps: Dealing and accepting change won’t happen overnight (or within the week). Take your time and slowly move through this process. Don’t get consumed by missing your old life and worrying about your future; take one day at a time and set small goals to accomplish so you can see the progress you’re making. If it helps, make a list of short-term and long-term goals to quiet the worry.

Find A Mentor: Having someone who’s “been there” before can be a huge help. Talk to a family member or friend about your worries and ask them how they got through it. Having someone on your side who understands and can give valuable advice will make the transition better.

Be Optimistic: A small shift in mindset can make a noticeable difference. Thinking in terms of positives rather than negatives will help you see changes as opportunities. Be optimistic in knowing that the confusion and fear won’t be permanent—they’ll soon be replaced with excitement and passion for everything you’re discovering!

Don’t get stressed if you seem to be struggling with change. Everyone’s feeling it, even if they don’t show it. Allow yourself to go through this process, and you’ll come out the other side ready to conquer the next four years!

Passion

When you’re in college, sitting in your first semester classes, millions of thoughts are running through your head. “She has a cool notebook,” or “I wonder what’s for lunch in the café today.” Do you ever really sit and think about what’s next? You have your major set, but is it the right one for you? Does this major help express your talent or passion? What are you great at and could see yourself doing for the rest of your life? These are the questions to sit and ask early on before getting into a major and deciding to change it at the last minute. Need help figuring out your passion? TGHT has you covered.  

Create a Career

Many people don’t know the difference between a job and a career. When choosing a career, you are choosing the kind of work you do based on your interest. It’s more long-term; even if you switch companies or organizations, you’re still in the same field. Do you want to jump from job to job without honing in on a particular skill-set or do you want to know all there is to know about a particular field and type of work? You’ll choose this path for yourself, and college will help you turn your passion and talent into a career you love.

When you speak…Listen

What do you enjoy doing? When you’re sitting alone, relaxing, where does your imagination lead you?  Take notes when you have free time and answer this question. It may be a tough one to answer, but everyday take notice of the things that interest you. 

Be Open

Yes, you’re in college and you have your major set. Even though you have your classes planned for the next year, stay open to new ideas. A new opportunity may arise where you can take an extra elective course. Take it! Find something that interests you and don’t be afraid to step out of the box.

 

Find a Mentor

Do you know someone in your family, community, or university that interests you? A person that talks about the same interest you have and seems so passionate? Don’t be afraid; express your interest in learning more and ask them to be your mentor. People are usually thrilled to teach someone or have a person to talk about their passion with. 

Photo Credit: Forbes.com

"Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within yoru the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world." Harriet Tubman

Perfect Study Spot

When making the transition from high school to college,  new ways of studying have to be put into place. High school provides you with lots of quiet time in your room, after school tutor sessions, or open book/open notes test. In college things, are quite different. You have more freedom, activities to get involved in, and no parents to answer to. You may think you can open your notes for a few in your dorm before the test or run to the library for an hour, but those two places are full of distractions. How can you find the perfect study spot without interruptions? TGHT has a few ideas. 

• Pick one indoor spot and one outdoor spot. Both locations should be noise free with wireless access if you need it.

• Your outdoor spot should be a nice shaded area with a great view. Enjoy nature while reading for your history class or reviewing for your next French oral test.

• Make sure the locations are "your" spots; always choose the same area. Let a few friends know where you are for safety reasons.

• A small coffee shop is also great for studying. They’re normally quiet and have great snacks. 

Photo Credit: HERE

Do you live on campus?

When you live on campus, life is so much easier, right? You’ll be in your dorm studying and preparing for the next day’s lecture...NOT! On campus, you meet tons of new friends, attend events, and get involved in thousands of other things that do not involve studying. 

• Find a study spot someplace other than your dorm room. Head out to one of the local study spots we discussed previously and keep your dorm room for last minute overviews.

• Instead of heading back to your dorm for a quick hour nap, spend that in between time studying. That hour or two before your next class starts is the perfect time for studying while your mind is fresh.

• If you have plans to visit friends or family on the weekend, plan accordingly. Make sure you get all studying done during the week in your designated locations.

Living off campus?

Living off campus gives you more freedom and more study spots to choose from, but commute times can throw your whole day off. 

• On campus study spots are a great idea, so find a location and stick to it. Just because your last class is over doesn't mean you must race home. Enjoy campus life for a few hours.

• Coffee shops near your apartment or house is also great for off-campus students. Make sure it’s not during peak hours and wireless access is available. 

• Public parks or flower gardens are great study spots. A nice scenery and just the right amount of serenity helps you stay focus. 

Where was your on or off-campus go-to study spot?

Homesick

When going off to college we automatically think our weekends will be spent studying, making new friends, and attending on campus activities. You’re so excited about learning your way around campus and making sure all financial aid paper work is in order, that being homesick is the last thing on your mind. Think about all the things you’re missing: a home cooked meal, privacy, less responsibility, and quiet time ….you should be worried if you don’t get homesick, LOL!

This can be a challenge for some, but let TGHT help you survive being homesick.

Photo Credit: HERE

Leave your dorm room: It’s okay to talk to your parents, skype your friends or talk on the phone to those you miss but being in your room is when you’re most homesick. Designate one day during the week where you’ll make those types of phone calls. If you’re starting to feel homesick in your room, head to your campus university center or coffee shop to mingle or do some reading.

Be sad and get over it: If you miss home, it’s normal to be sad. We’re pretty positive that other students are feeling the same way you are. Just remember, be sad for a day and that’s it! When that day passes it’s time to move on, get up, and get active. Join an on campus club, work out, attend an event, and make sure you’re getting the full “campus life” experience.

Make college home: Yes we all know college will never replace where you grew up, but you can always make some of the same memories. Think of it as a home away from home. It’s all about recreating those moments. Did you have great friends? Were you heavily involved in your community? Love for journalism? Meet new people, sign up for campus volunteer groups, or join the schools newspaper staff. Also decorate your dorm room similar to your room at home; this will help you feel more comfortable in your new space.

You’re not alone: Do you feel like everyone is adjusting so well to campus life and you’re the only one in your dorm room homesick? That’s not true at all; you’re not alone so take the time to reach out to others.  Have a “homesick sleepover” night and invite your new friends, make sure they bring blankets, movies, and snacks. Are you good at planning? Organize a day to go out and volunteer at a local shelter. This will remind you how precious family time is and how fortunate you are to go off to college.  

Make sure you’re keeping in contact with your high school friends. They may be struggling with homesick and need to hear your voice. Schedule a three way call once a week to update each other on college life and experiences or schedule a weekend visit and enjoy a different college atmosphere. Having those childhood friends close during your college years will help your transition even smoother.

Do you have any tips for a homesick college student? 

Why Your Teachers and Fellow Students Are Some Of The Best Connections You Can Make

Photo credit: news.rutgers.edu

It’s easy to forget that the real world exists outside of your college, whether they be ivy-covered or cinderblock. Your schedule revolves around three-hour classes, study sessions, the next sports game and what the dining hall is serving tonight. However, the real world is a little closer than you think. The people you see day-in and day-out could be your best connections when you begin building your bright future.

Take your professors. Contrary to popular belief, they aren’t plugged in five minutes before class starts and returned to the storage closet at night. They’re intelligent and enthusiastic human beings who are here to share their knowledge with you. And chances are, teaching isn’t their only job. Many probably teach part-time and still work or participate in their chosen field. They are the best in their industry—so take advantage of their presence! Ask them for guidance on a paper, or drop by their office hours for career advice. Get their email after the class finishes and file it away.  These experts are here to help you for the next four years—use their experience to help you learn and grow. You may not have such easy access to these kinds of people as you take your first entry-level job, so take advantage of their presence now.

Also, connect with your fellow students. You work together on class projects and in extracurriculars. You all bring unique skills to your institution.  You could be working with the next Marissa Mayer, Hillary Clinton, or J.K. Rowling. Friend your peers on Facebook and LinkedIn, exchange emails. Making these connections now will help you down the line; maybe the kid who made a PSA with you for your government class can help you film something at your future job, or maybe you can lend your scientific or literary expertise to someone else in your graduating class. Networking with them before you graduate will help you stay in touch so you can help each other.

Establishing these connections over the next four years will help you tremendously. Not only will you learn from the diverse voices of your professors and classmates, you’ll also establish a network of talented people as you begin your career.

Culture Shock

During the first week of college you’ll notice many different types of people. Culture shock can make you feel surprised, anxious, and confused and usually occurs when you’re exposed to a culture that is very different than yours. Are you a first generation college student? If so, this can be very hard for you because family may not understand the college transition.  International students also may experience culture shock because of the language barrier, different taste in foods, religion, and relationships.

Students who experience culture shock often try to isolate themselves by staying in the dorm, not attending campus functions, and even not making new friends. She may also spend a lot of time missing home and talking to family and old friends. Crying, over eating, over/under sleeping, withdrawal, or missing class are all signs of culture shock.

Photo Credit: www.petersons.com 

See this in your college roommate or friends, encourage and help them adjust to the new life experience. If you’re reading this and feel you’re experiencing culture shock build some strong peer relationships, find a mentor, join a student organization, get involved on campus, or write in a journal. Do not give up on your college education!

Balancing It All

When you’re all settled in your dorm and that first month of college has flown by, you have so much school work but still want to hang out with your new college friends. When in college you have your freedom and parents are not there to make sure homework is done before catching a midweek movie with friends. Papers due, lab reports to be submitted, but you want to attend your schools rival football game. What’s a girl to do!? Let’s find balance. When you figure out how to balance your school work and social life, college becomes just a little bit easier. ToGetHerThere is here to help.

Get Organized: Do you own a personal planner? Planners help with due dates, holidays, and scheduling your social life. You are able to check availability before planning trips with friends or volunteering for a highway trash pickup. School assignments come first and with your personal planner you’re able to make sure all work is completed before the due date sneaks up on you.

Study Spot: If you’re studying in bed while your roommate is blasting her favorite song, it’s time to rethink your space. The library should be your go to spot; you’re a lot less distracted and sometimes private rooms are available for study sessions or study groups.

Exercise:  Believe it or not, exercising is a big stress reliever and also keeps you energetic. Take some time out of your day for a quick yoga class, a run around campus, or on the treadmill.  This will give you time to reflect on your day and get your thoughts organized.

Sleep: Are you staying up late for cram sessions before a big test or laughing and watching late night movies with those new dorm buddies? Getting the proper amount of sleep is very important as a college student. Not getting rest can lead to a weak immune system and also hurt your classroom performance.  Make sleep a priority and try to get between 6-8 hours a night.

To Do List: Creating to do lists can not only help you stay organized and prioritize.  List also helps you to stay focused on one task and completing it before moving to the next. When you wake up, create a list: meeting, study for midterm, grocery shop, and sleep by 10p; there’s no better feeling than crossing off everything by the end of the day and feeling accomplished.

Have fun and enjoy your college experience, but also make sure your priorities come first and you’re not crossing yourself off the list. 

Finding Your College Friends

With only a few weeks left until your first day of college, you may feel like you've heard everything anyone has ever said, thought, or felt about the next four years of your life. You've told family and friends about your college of choice, what you may want to major in, everything you've managed to pack in your trunk, and your roommate/suitemates’ names. However, the one aspect that often gets left out of these conversations is the social part of college—making friends. While your relationships naturally changed and evolved from pre-school to senior year, this may be the first time (in a while) that many of you will make new friends again. And while this may seem harder than figuring out college classes or where the library is, we have some things to keep in mind as you find your new group, and yourself.

Photo credit: www.thecollegehelper.com

• Check your hometown: Even if you live far away from your college, chances are there could be someone nearby who’s also attending. Check your school’s website or Facebook for meet-ups in your area. You’ll get an opportunity to meet your future classmates and have a friendly face or two when you arrive on campus. If there aren't any meet-ups nearby, organize one yourself! Pick a familiar restaurant or park where everyone feels comfortable and can get the chance to know one another
•  Email those roommates!: Get to know them before you arrive and learn about their interests. You may not be the best of friends by the end of the year, but you’ll never know unless you try!
• Participate!: Those pre-orientation activities may seem lame, but they’re a great way to meet people. Sign up to take the city tour or join a volunteer activity; you may find someone that has similar interests. And if not, at least you’ll have people to chat with in between classes for the first few months.
• Get involved: Leave your room and sign up for an intramural sport or campus organization. Look for something you already love or are interested in learning about. Chances are, the people in these groups will also have other interests you share and you’ll click instantly.
• Be patient: It’s perfectly okay (and even normal) to not have your best friend by the end of orientation week. Some people will be best friends with their freshman roommates all four years, and others will have different friends over the course of their college careers. Know that you’ll find your people if you keep putting yourself out there and do what you love.
• Be yourself: This is our most important tip. Let your brilliant personality shine through! People will be drawn to it, and you’ll meet the friends you’ll truly connect with. College is a time to discover yourself—learn about what you like and don’t like, and be comfortable in that. People will notice if your behavior seems unnatural for you. Embrace yourself for who you are, and others will too. 

Creating Your College Schedule: How to Stay Happy and Focused (And Sane)

It’s several weeks before the start of school--you've sent in your deposit, you have your roommate’s email address, and you have (almost) everything for your dorm room. Now is your next big college task to accomplish: the college schedule. While high school was fairly regimented (you had to take these classes at these times in order to get that diploma) college gives you way more freedom to create the schedule that works best. In no time you’ll be looking through your college’s course catalog trying to plan the perfect first semester. However, talking with current students can make registration seem more like a horror movie than anything else. To avoid the stress, keep these tips in mind to create your best schedule.

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• Check your requirements: In most schools, freshman can only take certain classes. Look at the 100-level classes offered at your school and start making a list of those that you’re interested in. See if there are any prerequisites, or classes you need to take before taking another. Also look at any major requirements (if you have a major) and see if any beginner classes are open in the fall. Another good thing to check in to is your General Education requirements. These are your math, science, history, and English classes you need to take in order to graduate. See what options are available and if there are any pesky prereqs. If you’re struggling, talk with an academic advisor at your school. They've seen many students like you before—a fifteen minute appointment or email to them can help you get on the right track and excited for your first semester.
• Decide when you want to take classes: Here’s the beauty of college—you don’t have to go to class at 8am if you don’t want to. Decide when’s the best time to take your classes—all in the morning, nights, three days a week. Be aware: some classes are only offered at certain times. Make sure you take this in to account (and also make sure you don’t register for two classes that meet at the same time!).
• Make a timeline: If you meet with your academic advisor, it could be a good idea to map out your year (or all four years) so you have an idea of what to take and when. That way, when your last semester rolls around you won’t be worrying about missing a gen-ed requirement or not having enough credits in your major.
• Have backups (and backups of backups): The classes you want may be filled by upperclassmen by the time you get to campus, so come with alternates lined up. That children’s lit class may be filled, but the class on American short stories could have one space left that you can take. This way, you’re not stunned when half of your options are gone and everyone else is scrambling for another class to fill their schedule.
• Go to registration on time: Whether you’re registering online, by mail, or in person during orientation, make sure you arrive on time with your plan. Being early will give you a better chance of getting the classes you want and will prepare you for future registrations.

Happy Registration!

College Dorm Room Checklist

We know you’re excited about entering college and getting that “college life” experience first-hand.  You’ve probably received tons of graduation gifts, gift cards, money and advice on your next steps. But what do you really need when you’re headed off to college in August? We’ve created a Dorm Room Checklist just for you!

Photo Credit: www.skywriting.net - (via Google Images)

Get creative and let your dorm room scream, YOU! Whether you’re able to chat with your roommate beforehand to coordinate comforter colors or you have your own direction for your living space, be sure to give it as much of a home feel as possible.  

•  Bed sheets, comforter, blanket
•  Pillows and pillow cases
• Under bed storage
•   Mini fridge
• Surge protector 

Most dorm rooms have a desk set up for you to store all your computer related items. This will be your personal desk for all your long nights of writing papers or gathering class material, so make your space comfy and full of exciting colors.

• Computer, printer, headphones
• Lamp
• Ink, USB flash drive
• Printer paper, notebooks
• Calendar, folders
• Pins, pencils, markers, glue, stapler
• Waste basket

Make sure to start a storage bin or trunk early for all toiletries, bath towels,  wash clothes, detergent, and all other home essentials you’ll need while in college. It’s a great option to drop things in as the summer days fly by, because before you know it, you’ll be headed off on a new journey.

Remember: This is the perfect opportunity to express yourself creatively, so have fun!

Make sure to keep an eye out for full college dorm room checklist at popular stores in your area.

Before You Say Goodbye: Four Ways To Have Fun With High School Friends Before College

In a couple of months, you’ll be in a new city, new state, or just down the street beginning your college experience! You and your friends will be busy these next weeks, going to orientation and furiously packing your life into giant plastic containers. While all of you are pumped for what the fall will bring, you may be feeling sad that the people you shared third grade field trips, middle school dances, and high school classes with won’t be sharing your journey with you. Instead of letting it get you down, use your free time in between work or college prep to spend some quality time with your pals before college begins.

Photo credit: flickriver.com

·         Explore your hometown: Go take a walk with your friends around your neighborhood or the local park. Pack some snacks and take plenty of pictures as you uncover the hidden gems in your area. Use the time to catch up on everyone’s summer plans and college excitement, and get to know your town a little better before you say goodbye.

·         Take a road trip: Ask your parents for the car keys and hit the road! Drive to the beach, state park, amusement park, or city to see the sights and create your own adventure. When you’re missing them in a few months, you’ll have this summer day to brighten your mood and remember how much you care about each other.

·         Spend a night in: Plan something casual and fun that’ll be easy on everyone’s budget. Bring your sleeping bags, make some microwave s’mores, and camp out in the backyard, or grab some popcorn and have a movie marathon. Even something simple will allow you to see old friends and bond in a familiar environment.

·         Try something new: Learn to dance, play soccer in the backyard, create pottery masterpieces, bake a complicated dessert, whatever you want! This will allow you to step outside your comfort zone (something you’ll all have to do when you arrive on campus) and provide plenty of laughs.

As the summer winds down, you’ll finish your packing, say one last goodbye, and begin the next chapter in your life. You’ll feel sad leaving these people behind, and that’s okay! Feel happy knowing you spent a great summer together and that all of you support each other as you head to new and exciting experiences. Have fun your first semester so each of you has great stories to tell the others over winter break!

Saving Money

Photo Credit: www.collegetocareers.com

To have the Starbucks grande caramel macchiato or to not? As an independent college student (or a young professional), even a simple decision like this can have a huge impact on your finances. Here are some of our saving tips, pulled from Daily Finance, to help you save while working toward your goals in college and beyond.

• Be wary of credit cards- Research what kinds are out there, their fees and interest rates, and make a decision based on that. Unless you know you can pay it off, don’t get a card. You, your credit score, and your bank account will be happier in the long run.
• Create a budget that works for you- Outline a budget to help you figure out how much money you have each month and what it has to go towards. This will also help you decide how much you can spend on going out or on other events. A way to do this—decide how much you want to spend on a night out, and leave the rest in a safe place at home.
• Embrace the student discount- Stores and restaurants near campus may offer a student discount, so take advantage of it!
• Pay less for textbooks- Since the school bookstore is often more expensive, buy your books used from Amazon or rent them from sites like Chegg.com. Remember to sell used books back at the end of the semester to get a little extra cash back.
• Be organized- You may not realize it, but unexpected fines like a parking ticket or overdue library or movie rental fee can mess up your budget. Also, be aware of ATM fees—know where your closest bank branch is to avoid this when getting cash.
• Online banking is your friend- Sign up for text and email alerts from your bank to help you stay on track and well-informed about your spending.
• Go couponing- Think that little coupon book you get at the campus fair is silly? It can help you save on a dinner out or a haircut you want. That way, you’ll have a little extra cash for other things you might be saving towards. Sites like Groupon are also a great resource!
• Invest in yourself- Take that volunteer position or internship and network amongst family and friends. This will help you learn skills and build connections to get your dream job in the future (which won’t hurt your bank account at all).
• Set limits- If something is over $50, consider whether you really need it. This is a good way to determine wants and needs (and maybe that shirt will go on sale in a few weeks!)

With these tips, you can stay on track and start thinking about your future goals. In other words: invest in a good ol’ coffee pot and treat yourself to Starbucks when you get that job or ace your term project. 

Interview Etiquette Essentials

So, you’re headed out into the real world, looking for your first professional job or a part-time campus gig for some extra cash. No matter what you’re searching for, at some point you’ll have to face the (dreaded) job interview. It may seem overwhelming, but have no fear! ToGetHerThere (with some help from The Huffington Post) gives you these tips to help you nail it.

(Photo credit: dianegottsman.com (via Google Images))

Before your interview:

• Do your research on the company and job. Know what they’re looking for and what unique skills you can bring to the position.
• Have a killer professional outfit, even if the place you’re working at is very casual. A simple suit and jacket (and no distracting jewelry) will help you look like the young professional you are.
• Prepare questions ahead of time to ask the interviewer about the job and company. It’ll show your interest and seriousness to the position.
• Arrive early—if you don’t know where the office is, check it out beforehand so you’re not late the day of!
• Do a practice run to get the nerves out. Ask a parent or friend to grill you with the toughest interview questions so you can shine in front of your interviewer.
• Bring several copies of your resume with you (you never know how many people you’ll have to meet with!). Also bring business cards, if you have them.
• Turn off your phone!

During:

• Have a firm handshake when meeting the interviewer.
• Keep eye contact during the interview.
• Listen to what the interviewer shares about the company and the job. Takes notes if you feel it’s necessary.
• Let that practice pay off—explain your goals and accomplishments without relying on your resume.
• Ask those questions you prepared!
• Give clear and concise responses to questions: not too long, not too short, but just right!
• Be aware of your body language and what it could say to the interviewer. Sit up straight and look as focused as possible.

After:

• Send a handwritten thank-you note within 24 hours of the interview. Handwritten notes will show you consideration, and that’ll stick with your interviewer as they make their decision.

Whether you get the job or not, this will be a good experience to help you down the line as you move through your career. Good luck!