Words from the wise

“Never be afraid to ask for help. No one can succeed on their own, so pay attention to your network. You've got Buckeye Nation behind you. Everyone gets in over their head at some point, so don't be silent about it. Most people will understand and respond with kindness and support.”

“I wish I would've truly understood all the resources and connections available through the alumni association and our Buckeye alumni in general. The most important thing I did in the first year after graduation was networking.”

“There are Buckeyes wherever you go that are willing to help you out, whether it be finding a job, helping you acclimate to a new city or position, or just to be a friend.”

“Be a sponge. Soak in all of the knowledge you can and learn from the good and the bad. Remember that if you're in a less than desirable situation, it's an opportunity to learn so you can be better in the future.”

“Learn as much as you can. Without the structure of classes it's easy to slide into bad habits. Even if it's just one hour a week, dedicate some time to increasing your knowledge about a topic or a hobby to keep your brain sharp.”

“Finding the right people to work with is a lot more important than finding the right industry, firm or position.”

“Take risks. Move to a new state or a new country. Take a job you didn’t expect to pursue. Try something new and be open to opportunities for learning.”

“Go into all interviews with confidence. You are a graduate from The Ohio State University.”

“The first thing [to remember] is YAHOO – You Always Have Other Options. Do what you love to do and you'll never work a day in your life.”

“I wish I would’ve known that I would not use everything I learned during that first year after graduation, but all of that information would benefit me over the years. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.”

“Be open, honest and willing to admit mistakes. Search out experienced mentors and learn from them. Read current events and be knowledgeable about changes in the world. Spend time with loved ones and don’t waste time on family or friends who have a negative influence.”

“Do what you love, not what is convenient or profitable. You will be working for many years. Enjoy those years. Life is too short to drink cheap wine or labor in a job you hate.”

“You may not find the perfect job right away. Don't be afraid to take a position you're qualified for, even if it doesn't bring you joy, while you look for the career-building job that will. Take the GRE right away. You may not be sure about grad school just yet, but the scores last for five years and your math skills don't.”

“My best advice for new graduates is to know that the first year out is difficult. It's ok to take time to be a little selfish, to figure out what you want, where you want to go, and what people you want to join you on this journey. Mistakes will be made, but as long as you are willing to grow from them and approach each new challenge with the same tenacity you did while at Ohio State, you can accomplish anything your heart desires.”

“Be thankful for your degree. Be humble. Be a better listener than a talker. Work diligently to make your home and your community, both local and global, a better place to live. Do small great things daily.”