When you graduate college and start a new career it’s the end of one journey and the beginning of another, with many triumphs, failures, challenges and opportunities to learn along the way.
Herzing-Minneapolis dental hygiene student Jennifer Harris reveals the words of wisdom that have helped her launch her career.
1. It’s not too late
While it can sometimes feel like the clock is ticking a bit too fast, it is never too late to start working toward your professional goals.
“Some of the best advice I’ve received is not to give up just because someone doubts you. You have to have the strength and courage to follow your dreams and stay focused on your goals even when you encounter challenges and setbacks,” says Harris.
2. Understand your weaknesses
Everyone has weaknesses, so don’t become overly discouraged by yours. Rather, view your weaknesses as opportunities to grow and improve.
“Most of us know our strengths and do the best we can to build on them, but what effort do we put into understanding and improving on our weaknesses?” says Harris. “When you make a mistake, take a moment to reevaluate where you went wrong and how you can do better the next time. You must keep learning if you want to progress in your career.”
3. Confidence is key
Sometimes you are your own worst critic. Be confident that you have the skills and knowledge you need to be successful, and know you are making important strides toward your goals every day.
“Believe in yourself! Feeling confident about your abilities is half the battle. So take deep breath and hold your head high. Show others that you are knowledgeable and capable enough to get the job done.” Harris advises.
Today, Harris is looking forward to graduation and is thankful for the advice that has helped her navigate college and a new career.
“I’ve been lucky to have many mentors throughout my career that have helped shape me into the person that I am today,” she says. “I’ve set goals for myself and worked hard to achieve them, and I understand how to transform my weaknesses into strengths and to not be so hard on myself. Last but not least, I believe in myself no matter what task I am about to take on. These three things have really helped to change the way that I approach my career.”
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* Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics 2022 / Occupational Outlook Handbook 2022. BLS estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geography market in which you want to work and degree field, will affect career outcomes and earnings. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the average salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, salary increase or other career growth.
