Planning isn’t always a strong suit for college students. However, whether or not you’re the type of person who always has their planner at the ready, you might want to start preparing for the next year or so. What you do now can ease a lot of potential stress later on! Here are some things to consider when imagining where you’ll be 365 days from now.
1. Academics
Whether you’re a freshman or a senior, it’s important when planning your academic schedule to consider what classes you’ll want to be taking in a year—or two. Make sure you know what prerequisites you need to take prior to your desired classes and what requirements you need to complete before you graduate. It’s easy to brush off mandatory classes until the last minute, but the more you get done now, the more time you’ll have to take classes just for fun.
2. Internships
Internships are a great way to gain experience before you leave school. Even if you don’t want to take on an internship just yet, consider thinking about when one might fit into your schedule; after all, you need to apply at least a semester ahead. Polish up your resume and update your LinkedIn account to stand out to perspective mentors.
3. Finances
Need a job for next semester? Start applying now for the best picks! Alternately, if you find working during the semester is a bit too stressful, consider applying for summer jobs in your hometown to save up for the next academic year.
4. Needs and wants
While planning for the future is all well and good, don’t just think about what you should do but also what you want to do! Whether you’re itching to head out for a summer road trip or you’re trying to study abroad next spring, think through how you’re going to accomplish what you want before the time comes.
5. Post-College
Most of us are at Emerson to prepare ourselves for our dream careers. Freshman need not be too concerned about the post-college life just yet, but if you’re a junior or senior, it may be time to start thinking about grad school or entry-level jobs. Think about where and if you want to go to grad school. If the academic life isn’t your calling anymore, reach out to friends, teachers and other connections to see if anyone has heard of openings in your field.
Planning ahead is an awesome way to lower your stress later on, but all of this being said, don’t forget to live in the moment as well. You can reach for your goals while having a great time right where and when you are.