Take introductory courses before committing to your major. Work campus jobs to build your skills. Be fearless when you’re networking.
These are some of the tips that students shared during a recent Zoom panel that brought together students from all four colleges at William Paterson to share practical strategies on being successful in college and careers, regardless of majors.
Liz Gonzales, a junior biology pre-med major, said that students shouldn’t feel pressured to choose their major immediately. “Take introductory biology before committing to the major,” Gonzales said. “And start asking professors about research opportunities early. They remember the students who show initiative.”
Students with multiple interests don’t need to restrict themselves to a single major, either. Nayelis Payano, a junior double-majoring in criminal justice and sociology, said that combining the two gave her unique perspectives that impressed job interviewers. “Professors told me to choose one focus, but I’m glad I didn’t listen,” she said.
The March 7 event, branded as “College Conversations” and hosted by academic advisor Deborah Sheffield, also emphasized the importance of networking regardless of your profession. Isabella Gonzalez, a sophomore studying finance and management, said she went into her major with a misconception. “You would think finance is just crunching numbers and being behind a desk, but there’s also a big aspect of meeting people and building connections,” she said.
The conversation became particularly animated when sophomore Brooke Holzhauer, a broadcast journalism major, described her aggressive networking approach. “Freshman year, I was terrified to message professionals on LinkedIn,” she confessed. “Now, I have over 300 connections because I pushed past that fear.”
Holzhauer, who wants to go into TV news, said networking is especially important because studying broadcast journalism can lead to a variety of career paths, including PR, social media, television, and radio.
“You have to be optimistic about networking,” Holzhauer said. “Even if people don’t reply when you reach out, at least you tried.”
The panelists also encouraged students to build skills beyond the classroom.
Michaela Raguseo, a master’s student in applied math who was an undergraduate math major as well, said she gained practical experience as a tutor. “Working at the Math Learning Center gave me skills I couldn’t have developed just sitting in lectures,” she said.
Carmine Coscia, a senior finance and technology major graduating in May, said he complemented his classroom education with real-world credentials. “Excel certifications completely transformed my internship experience,” he said. “Employers noticed immediately.” Coscia also advocated for civic engagement and volunteer work, describing how his community service opened doors to networking opportunities.
Gerson Jimenez, a master’s student in psychology, said developing relationships with faculty and enrolling in a certificate program helped him find career success.
“The certificate programs that complemented my degree have been conversation starters in every interview,” Jimenez said.
Sheffield said plans are underway for similar panels to provide students with insights from their peers.
