To the 2014-2015 Higher Education Cohort...

...you all are awesome! It was such a pleasure to meet many of you this weekend between mingling and interviewing for the GSE admissions position! You have a fantastic year ahead of you!

It's hard to believe that it's already been a year since I was in your shoes. Everyone will keep telling you, it goes faster than you think, and they're right! I wanted to share some quick words of advice (since many of you said you read these blogs!)

• Take advantage of every opportunity you can (personal and professional) - it might not come again.
• If you're not happy with something, be proactive and take steps to change it. The one year program is too short for you to spend unnecessary time in a bad situation.
• Diversity is more than meets the eye - take time to get to know your classmates, and learn from them. Everyone has unique experiences and perspectives to offer.
• Be nice to your cohort members, they will be your real-world colleagues very soon.
• You know the game "Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon"? In higher ed, it's more like two or three degrees. The world of higher education is actually very small, so any job you want to apply for or person you want to connect with is likely only a few degrees of separation away from you. Make lasting connections with your supervisors, professors, and every one you meet, and don't be afraid to ask if people can use their connections to help you! 
• ...but don't burn bridges! Treat people with respect because they will remember you!
• Learn to listen. You can often learn more in class by considering what others are sharing rather than dominating the conversation yourself.
• Don't take things too personally. Classmates will say things that upset you or might offend you. Don't judge people by how they phrase things when they might not be fully considering their words, but feel free to question or challenge their assumptions - respectfully, and not aggressively. 
• Don't shy away from situations that make you feel uncomfortable or challenge you - it's these moments where you can learn and grow most. 

Enjoy every minute of your time - even the difficult moments! Use your cohort members for support and celebrate together when you graduate!

I'm sure I'll come in contact with many of you again, but in the meantime, don't hesitate to email me any questions you still have (even after a long and informative weekend). 

Good luck!