Help me decide my freshmen year plans

Trying to plan out my first year in college. I was thinking of becoming a research assistant at my school, mostly so my resume is not completely blank (obviously I'll have some clubs here and there). How impressive is this role? Should I pursue it or keep my focus on having a high GPA? The extra money would be nice, but not a necessity.

Also, I have a dilemma about my plans for next summer. Will be either 1. study abroad & research project or 2. finance internship (most likely a regional boutique or non-IB role ). Apparently, recruiting for junior SA starts as early as sophomore spring, so I figure a freshmen year internship would be helpful...but I'd rather have a little more fun and do something unique.

Thanks!

 
Most Helpful

It's great to be focused on your future (to a point). Most important things in freshmen yr include:

  1. Smooth transition to college life
  2. Make lots of friends
  3. Join meaningful (to you, not just for resume building) clubs. Things you actually like doing.
  4. Get great grades
  5. Engage opportunities (go to info sessions, career services, etc. ). Get comfortable with how everything works.
  6. Have a blast (again, your definition- if that means partying your butt off, great)!

Companies, BB's and all others, want well rounded, interesting, fun people. They don't want drones that are overly programmed to get a certain job a few yrs out. Those kids are a dime a dozen. Having an eye on the future is good, just don't over do it.

Most of all, have fun!

 

Don't worry, You'll be fine. A lot of unknowns in front of you. I would suggest reaching out to career services and asking them how (and when) successful students got their internships. See if they can put you in touch with juniors and seniors at your school that are going through the process. Together, they can lay out a timeline for you to keep you on track.

Like I previously said, It's good to have goals but try to keep at least one eye on the present and enjoy the ride..

 

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