Last week I wrote about the importance of office etiquette, and gave a few examples of what not to do around your office. For my last post, I want to discuss the SELF program and how to get the most out of your time spent being a SELF Fellow. I think most of you would agree with me when I say, I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to be part of an amazing program. Mr. and Mrs. Self had an extraordinary vision when they created the SELF program, and I am confident we are capable of making it everything they anticipated and more. The program defined my college experience and created so many opportunities for the future. It also introduced us to a community of successful people who all share common aspirations and goals. I am truly grateful for everything it has helped me accomplish and can’t wait to see what the future holds for the SELF Fellows. Looking back now, there are a few things I wish I would have done to make the most out of my experience. Hopefully, if you take some advice from the list below (if you can’t tell, I really love lists), it will enable you to relive your SELF Fellow experience for years to come.
1. Keep a journal ·
This may seem cheesy, but I really wished I would have kept a running journal of everything we learned in the SELF Program. I wish I would have taken thorough notes during every interactive discussion, team building activity, and event we planned. I realize now that the time spent with the industry professionals was very valuable, and I may never get to have those kinds of discussions with them again. Keeping all your SELF documents in one place, and having something to refer back to once you graduate might be extremely useful.
2. Make the most out of the events and alumni dinners ·
This is your opportunity to shine and make as many friends as possible. I wish I would have thrown myself out there and enjoyed these events more. You never know where you might end up, and which KU alumni could be there to help.
3. Actually read the books ·
The last thing I wanted to do on Christmas break was read a book. Now I realize those books were really interesting, and I find myself referring back to them quite often.
4. Stay in touch ·
In my opinion, the best part of the SELF Program is the network you create. After graduation your peers will move all across the country, accepting jobs in very diverse industries, or studying fascinating subjects and ideas. It is so much fun to catch up and see everyone making their dreams come true.
Thank you for letting me be your guest writer this month. I know engineering school may seem daunting and difficult, but I promise it goes by extremely fast and is well worth it. Make the most out of the time you have left at KU and please don’t hesitate to contact you alumni with any questions. I wish you all the best of luck and cannot wait to see what the future holds for the SELF Fellows!
Best Wishes,
Kelly Lohmeyer