One of the most impactful questions asked at every agency was, “If you could give advice to your junior/senior year self, what would it be?” We’re at a time in our lives where there’s a lot of ambiguity. We’re unsure of what we’ll do or where we’ll up, and it all feels slightly out of our own control. Hearing the advice of those that have been through these exact situations brings a sense of ease on what we should be focusing on.

• First off, if you’re a junior like myself, the stand alone advice surrounded enjoying every moment. Not only does that mean taking advantage of our remaining time in college by networking as much as we can, getting our foot in every office, and being sponge. It also means enjoying the simplicities of college life - even if they don’t feel that way sometimes. I often get caught up in the future and this was a fantastic reminder to take advantage of and treasure the now.
• Manage your own career. Learn how to set others’ expectations for you. Find someone who will champion you at your work.
• Cast your net, and do it wide. Don’t corner yourself into one specialty or think you have to have one specific experience - try out as much as you can to find out what you like and don’t like. Make a goals list and ask yourself “why” about each one.
• Be buttoned up - your decks should be presented beautifully and error free. Ideas are more likely to be perceived well when they look nice.
• My personal favorite quote I heard: “It’s advertising. No one dies”. While the work of advertising is a weapon and you must be careful where you point it, you must not ruin relationships or self health because of work. Always take time for yourself - and in the beginning it’s going to be hard to figure out the balance. Keep working on yourself and allowing yourself the time to stay sane.

Elizabeth Beymer | May 12, 2019