On May 10th, 2026, I graduated from the University of Connecticut with two bachelor’s degrees in political science and human rights. Though it sounds cliché, it feels like just yesterday that I was texting my mom about how homesick and sad I was in September of 2022. Now, I am sitting in my almost empty apartment getting ready to leave the place I’ve called home for four years. College is so much more than just a place to take classes – it truly formed me into the woman I am proud to be today. I’ve learned so much, and there truly is no better way to end my Her Campus career than with some advice from my four years in college.
Turn your passion into purpose
Like many people, I came into college with a rough idea of what I wanted to do, but not a completely clear path. I knew I loved politics, history, advocacy, and helping people, but I wasn’t sure how those interests would add up to a job. Instinctively, my mind went to law school: it was a nice label I could tell people that they would be satisfied and proud of, and that made complete sense as a political science student. But what about me? I knew I didn’t want to be a lawyer, and realized quite quickly that this name tag was going to have to fall off eventually. I began to look into service and leadership-based master’s programs, and eventually stumbled upon the Master of Public Administration. It was the definition of the perfect fit and the exact next step I needed. Though it wasn’t the popular route, it was mine. I am proud to say I’ll be attending the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill for this degree and would not have gotten there if I didn’t stay true to my passions. Never forget to do things your way.
Song that sparks this energy:
You have to run to catch your bus – literally and figuratively
Higher education, especially UConn, affords us so many resources to explore within classes, internships, research, and organizations. However, you have to advocate for yourself and run to catch your “bus“, whatever that may be. This year, my bus was going to Costa Rica for a winter study abroad program I had been dreaming about since freshman year. Semester after semester would go by, and I would “forget” to fill out the application; my fear and nervousness overtook me. At some point, enough was enough! I made sure that my last time to apply would be the time I went, and it was one of the best things I did for myself. I got to explore my love for the Spanish language and culture, meet new UConn students who are now great friends, and travel to a beautiful place. Think about that leap or opportunity you really want to take and make sure you don’t miss your bus, either.
Song that sparks this energy:
invest in those that invest in you!
I’ve met some of the best people here at UConn, people who have taught me what a true friend really is. In turn, I have also met people with whom I haven’t aligned for various reasons. At first, I would blame myself for friendships or relationships ending, even if I was never in the wrong. I have always been a people pleaser at heart; if people dislike me, there must be something wrong with me, right? WRONG! The people who are meant for you will find you, and if you don’t want to be around someone… DON’T! Life is too short to spend time with those who don’t value your time or presence. Always invest in those who, in turn, invest in you.
Song that sparks this energy:
Hold onto the memories, they will hold onto you
With a busy college curriculum, it can be so easy to bury your head in books at the same time your friends are BEGGING for you to hang out. I am here to tell you that you will regret every time you say no, SO get your studying and important academics done so you don’t have to. This does not always mean partying the night away at Ted’s, maybe it’s watching a movie on your couch, going to see the cows, hanging out at the Union for late night, or going to try that new sushi place. Memories don’t create themselves, and I can guarantee you that all that time you spend in the library will blend together. The time with the people, organizations, and activities you love will not, so hold onto the memories, and they will hold onto you.
Song that sparks this energy:
Make UConn You-Conn
On almost every UConn tour I’ve given, I have said a phrase you may be familiar with: you can’t make a small school big, but you can make a big school small. Even though it’s incredibly cheesy, it is so true. UConn is designed for you to find your niche and step into it. I was able to do that through my majors and minor, HuskyTHON, Her Campus, and my job at the Lodewick Visitors Center. Now, how will you? Realistically, you pay too much money not to make your experience unique and perfectly tailored to you. Make an effort to make sure you’re leaning into every interest, class, or avenue you want to take. Make UConn, YOU-Conn.
Song that sparks this energy:
Over my four years, I’ve written four articles, each tailored to that year’s experience. Feel free to check out the freshman, sophomore, and junior versions of this article.
Writing for Her Campus has made my college experience so amazing, and I feel grateful to have shared my thoughts with this platform. I can’t wait to see what comes next, but I am proud to be a UConn Husky forever. Bailgirl out, for good.