Building Confidence as a College Student

BY: Adrianna lattanzio

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Where do Students start?  

When students get to college, there is an expectation to join clubs, get involved and seek out internships and job opportunities. It can be overwhelming, especially when students are just starting out. The question students have all asked and will continue to ask is “where do I start?”  

Explore Campus Resources 

The best way to approach any opportunity is by exploring what the campus has to offer. Most universities have career centers, workshops, and other resources that help prepare individuals with varying levels of experience for multiple opportunities. It is important to start small and build those skills through resume building, interview prep, or an on-campus job. These small steps position students better for the next step they want to take.  

Learning through Personal Experience 

When I first started looking for internship opportunities in my sophomore year, I did not have a lot of work experience to put on my resume. I wanted to apply for a Graphic Design internship through the CIA. JMU was hosting a CIA portfolio review. Knowing that my resume was not that competitive and with few projects that may stand out, I went to the review anyway. I learned what the recruiters were looking for, branding, zines, and other professional projects. I also learned how to structure a competitive portfolio. I used the opportunities available to gauge what they were looking for and improved my portfolio.  

Growth through experience  

These small steps to seek out opportunities,  even if you face a high probability of rejection, prepare you for better opportunities. Taking what is learned from rejection and growing from it could be the reason you get your next ‘yes.’ It is hard at first, but students build confidence with every step. 

Steps going forward: 

1. Seek out campus resources 

Explore the resources on campus such as the career center. These resources are there to help students learn how to write a strong resume and build confidence, which is key. 

2. Lay the groundwork 

To lay the foundation, students can find clubs they want to be involved in, such as organizations, on-campus jobs, or an internship. All of these are great ways to build skills socially, academically, and professionally. 

3. Go for it Anyway 

Once students have found what they were looking for, go after it. Although there is a possibility of rejection, there is also a learning opportunity. 

4. Grow with every experience 

Just because an internship, job, or club said no, do not let that be discouraging. Each “no” gives students the chance to explore where they can improve and chase after the next moment. 

At first, seeking out clubs, jobs, or internships can seem intimidating. However, by seeking them out, even if faced with rejection, positions students for the next big moment; keep moving forward, and that yes will come.