As graduation nears, advice for how to tackle life and careers alike after college begins to emanate from people and organizations almost like clockwork.
To help them along the way, the IDS asked leaders from across campus for advice and words of wisdom for the class of 2015. Here’s what they had to say.
Doug Bauder
Coordinator, Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Student Support Services, an Office of the Vice President for Diversity, Equality and Multicultural Affairs
“Celebrate this moment in time to the fullest, but be aware of the great privilege that comes with being a college graduate and, then, consider how you might use the next 50 or 60 years of your life to benefit those with much less privilege.”
Lillian Casillas
Director, La Casa Latino Cultural Center
“As the old saying goes, choose the path less traveled. I strongly believe that it is in life’s challenges and stepping outside our comfort zone that we truly learn who we are and what we are capable of doing. It is something we should not only do while in college but in our life beyond.”
Fred Glass ?
Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate ?Athletics
“The best career advice I’ve ever received is that when making decisions regarding your career, always choose the path that will create more options down the road. I also recommend trying to find and pursue your passion and do so even if it is not as lucrative as doing something less satisfying. Finally, I’ve discovered during my life that the twin secrets of happiness are to be grateful and to be forgiving. They sound trite, but I promise that if you embrace and follow them that you will be happy and invincible.”
James C. Wimbush?
Vice President for OVP DEMA and Dean of the University Graduate School
“Take what IU has given you and use it throughout your career and life knowing that you are prepared to be successful on all fronts. In all of this, remember what matters most — your relationships, your values and your gratitude. Congratulations and best wishes in all your career and life endeavors.”
Sandy Britton?
Associate Director, International Student Life
“Earning a college degree is the first step towards the career goals that we have set for ourselves. It is important that, as new graduates, you continue focusing in what motivates you and never stop learning. By not limiting yourselves but continuing to explore options and possibilities that will help you grow professionally and personally, you can help shape your life towards the future you envision. Find a balance between working hard and having fun! Remember that while your schooling might be over, your education will still continue.”
Andrew Braden
IU Student Administration president, class of 2017
"It’s important to remember that, like choosing a major in college, the career choices you make early on do not have to be permanent. Go out and experience things, keep learning and consuming information, but do not feel like you are setting the rest of your life in stone. There are so many opportunities to change things if you are unhappy or unsatisfied.”
Carolyn Walters
Ruth Lilly Dean of University Libraries
"Bloom where you are planted by being engaged in your work, your community, and, most important, your family."
