Use your time in college to explore opportunities all around you
This is the opinion of Rick Speckmann, '72 Alumni Association President.
*Editor’s Note: From the Outside In is a biweekly column written by an alum. Please email The Record at record@csbsju.edu with topic suggestions!*
Do you remember stepping on campus as a first-year student and meeting “that person” who already had their next 15 years planned out? I was not that guy. It frustrated me at first, but eventually my career anxiety began to subside. I was encouraged by my friends, mentors and professors to follow a path of self-discovery—to embrace the unique opportunities a Benedictine community could provide.
I joined extra-curricular offerings my “pre-Johnnie” self would have scoffed at. I took student jobs and met new people. I even changed my major four times, although I wouldn’t necessarily recommend that particular path. I learned to trust my instincts when an opportunity presented itself. I made “Go ahead and try that” my mantra.
The good news? There are no wrong decisions when seeking out new pathways, especially when they are based in Benedictine values. This is your time to experiment in a setting that provides an enriching environment and open thinking. Make use of on-campus career resources provided by XPD, find your style, research job descriptions, go to interviews and network with Bennie and Johnnie graduates.
Remember, they were like you not so long ago. (Well, longer for some than others.) In a world of instant gratification, attending St. Ben’s and St. John’s gives you the gift of time. Don’t be in a rush to map out those next 15 years. You will figure it out. For now, go and experience, learn and find your passion.
With God’s help, the paths will reveal themselves. For more information on career resources, visit csbsju.edu/xpd. Please also consider signing up for the InterAction program that connects current students with alums for casual informational career meetings.