College Experiences That Helped a Professor At Higher Education Succeed
Daniel emphasizes the importance of curiosity and active engagement in college, suggesting students should "absorb as much information as you can from as many people as you can" by joining clubs, creating opportunities, and seeking mentorship from professors, which was key to becoming a lifelong learner and developing tools to navigate future challenges as an Analyst/Professor. "Don't lose that inquisitive mind," they add, because college is meant to turn you into a lifelong learner.
Curiosity, Inquisitiveness, Extracurricular Involvement, Lifelong Learning, Resource Utilization
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Daniel Alvarez
Analyst/Professor
State Government / Higher Education
ITAM
University of San Diego - MBA
Political Science, American Studies
Education, Government & Public Sector
Business Strategy
Video Highlights
1. Cultivate Curiosity: Embrace a mindset of continuous inquiry, asking questions and actively seeking knowledge about various subjects to understand how things work and why.
2. Engage Extracurricularly: Join clubs, create your own initiatives, and explore diverse activities to broaden your experiences and learn from different perspectives.
3. Leverage Faculty Resources: Proactively connect with professors, ask insightful questions, and seek guidance for further learning, mentorship, and opportunities in your field.
Transcript
What did you do in college that set you up for success in your career?
In college, I was always very curious. I wanted to understand how things work, how society functions, and why institutions and businesses operate the way they do. I was always asking questions and seeking to learn more.
I was that student who did extra work, extra readings, and took extra classes in diverse fields like economics, philosophy, political science, business, and international relations. I also joined several clubs and even created my own.
Don't be afraid to explore many options. College is a time to be curious and learn. Absorb as much information as you can from as many people as possible. Ask questions; it's okay to be inquisitive.
It's important to know how to phrase your questions and approach people. Professors welcome students who are genuinely interested. If you approach a professor and ask for a few minutes to discuss your questions, they are usually happy to help.
Professors love when students notice topics covered and express a desire to learn more. They can recommend extra readings, suggest conferences, or point you towards mentorship programs or opportunities in their field. They are happy to make introductions.
Professors are a great resource, so make the most of your college experience, especially at an institution like ours. Our institution offers possibilities for studying abroad, learning about other cultures, majoring in different disciplines, taking electives, and joining various clubs.
Conferences are constantly happening on campus, and faculty present regularly to share knowledge and keep dialogue open. The more involved you are, the more you can develop as a student. You can shape your degree to be as extensive as you desire.
So, make it big and enjoy every opportunity. When I was a student, I made a point to do everything I could. I even worked as a student assistant, grad assistant, and in my own student association. I was part of several student associations and served as a social media and student ambassador.
I also held different scholarships and joined various clubs. This gave me the platform to learn how to acquire knowledge and maintain a curious mindset. Don't lose that inquisitive mind and curiosity, as the goal of college is to become a lifelong learner.
This will equip you with the tools and abilities to navigate any challenge. Be happy to be in a great institution and make the most of it. Enjoy your time; you are in a great place at the right time. Make it happen.