It’s not what or who you are but who you know… by Yafreicy Brito Martes

This is one of the most significant pieces of advice I never got! I remember desperately looking for a job after my graduation and having every door shut in my face.  What was the next step for me? Who was I going to address for a recommendation letter? Where would I look for  a job? How long would it take? Would I be able to find a decent job? All these questions and many more were gambling in my head. Until one day a woman was reviewing my resume and said “listen, most of the time is not what you have but who you know” you can have the highest GPA, the credentials, a Ph.D., but if you don’t know what to do with it,  and you don’t know the right people you will most likely have mediocre jobs all your life”. Her words were shocking but life changing at the same time. 

If  I could turn back time and give myself some advice, I’d go find myself in High School and tell my younger self “stop wasting your time doing nonsense activities and go get 

 involved  in the extra curricular activities that are aligned with your career goals”. Knowing what I know now I would tell every high school and college student to join every club and find those volunteer opportunities because that’s what will build your curriculum and these are the resources you will later use to get referrals. This may sound overwhelming but it will save you a lot of headaches, disappointments, and anxieties.

 It has been proven that a higher percentage of young adults who graduate from college end up hating their careers or not using their degrees at all. I think that’s because you don’t know you will really like something unless you try it! 

So 3 things-

Network Network. and Network!!!

• Do an extensive amount of research
• Get involved in the field you think you like before entering college.
• Take advantage of the support system. 
• Make sure your professor knows who you are so they can know what to write when you ask for the recommendation letter. 
• Join clubs
• Volunteer.

Entering and exiting College can be a more meaningful experience if you surround yourself with the right people. 

Congratulations!