College Success
This year, I started serving as the advisor for freshmen majoring in Intelligent Construction.
Many students have come to my office and asked questions about their major and studies.
I summarized several key comments I have given them and hope that these will be helpful to other college students.
🧠 1. Think Independently, Not Passively
You may already notice that you can do many things in college, but it’s essential to focus your time on things that genuinely interest you. Time flies quickly, so spend more time thinking about what truly matters to you. If you’re not sure what interests you, try these two criteria:
- Do things that are helpful to others or yourself.
- Choose to do things because you want to — not because someone else told you to.
Unfortunately, we often waste a lot of time doing things that seem important but are actually trivial or meaningless. I know several friends who consistently pursued their passions despite early challenges. In the end, they not only achieved remarkable success but also developed a unique personal style. Respect to them!
🌱 2. Cultivate Long-Term Thinking
Look beyond immediate gains or losses. Consider where you want to be in 10 years, not next year. Time moves faster than you think. Plan your career direction early and seek advice from mentors or experienced professionals. Start building or developing something people want — and iterate quickly.
🛠 3. Work on Cool Projects
Participating in projects is one of the best ways to develop practical skills like programming, modeling, or video editing. Pick one that interests you most. Projects could generate research papers or early products, which may lead to successful graduate studies or startups.
Some ways to find good project opportunities:
- Discuss with your class advisor or course instructors.
- Browse faculty profiles on your department’s website and send emails.
- Ask for recommendations from senior students.
🎓 4. Major & Jobs
Instead of thinking about what you should do because you majored in XYZ, spend more time thinking about what you WANT to pursue after graduation.
A college major defines the subject you’ll specialize in, but it shouldn’t limit your future. The world is dynamic. Stay flexible and open to various opportunities beyond your major.
📈 5. GPA Matters
Although it may sound unpleasant, your academic transcript remains a crucial factor for employers and graduate school admissions. Even if some courses seem unrelated to your future, excelling in them shows your ability to get things done — a valuable skill.
Combining strong academic performance with active project involvement will significantly enhance your personal and professional growth.
Hope this helps you navigate college life with more clarity and confidence. Best of luck!