“Put me in coach” has meaning outside of the sports realm. No one starts off as the star player and that’s okay. Those who start off on top tend to not appreciate the experiences that allow room for growth. Let’s face it, there’s a lot of competition everywhere – school, the professional world, etc. Setting yourself apart can present itself as a challenge when you’re surrounded by equally competent and ambitious students. This can be discouraging, but it can also be major motivation to figure out different ways to establish yourself as someone who deserves playing time. Every individual has different strengths they can capitalize on, but there are a few things we can all do to get ahead of the game.
Be Bold.
This is easier said than done, but just like bold text stands out in essay, bold people stand out in a crowd. Therefore, don’t be scared to speak your mind and go out of you way to make a strong impression on someone. Being bold might be uncomfortable sometimes, but you will never grow being stuck in your comfort zone. Your impression could take you much farther than you anticipated!
If you want something, ask for it.
Don’t be afraid to ask for things, even if you think there’s a slim chance you will get the answer you want . If you get the answer you did not want, you stay in the same square you started off as. However, in that slim chance you get the answer you want, you will find yourself further along than you started. People who aren’t scared to ask for what they want are remembered. Although you may not get that opportunity you were hoping for right off the bat, you may be remembered when another one arises.
Be Present.
Go to class, go to networking events, go to career fairs. Getting to the events and putting yourself out there is the hardest part! People are paying attention even if you think they aren’t. A student that goes out of their way to be present at the events that concern their field of study is noticed and appreciated. In addition to that, you never know who you will meet or what opportunity might present itself.
Soak it up.
In college, you are surrounded by so many people from different walks of life. Everyone you meet has something to teach you, so take advantage of that. Not everyone will give you professional advice, but everyone can broaden your horizons. Expanding your horizons can help you connect with more people and develop. Most importantly, you have the chance to learn from professors and instructors who have a lot of professional experience in a variety of fields . Your professors are here because they want to help you. It’s crucial to soak up the knowledge they provide and take advantage of their willingness to mentor you.
Make your own opportunities.
I’ve heard complaints about how other people get more opportunities than they do. Unfortunately, not everyone is born into well connected family or an environment bursting with opportunities. Is it unfair? Maybe, but what’s fair in life? Go out there and make your own opportunities. You would be surprised at how many people are willing to help open up doors for you if show you’re a hard worker and passionate about what you do. Temple alumni can be found all around the world and they love to help other Owls — you just have to find them!
Coaches give playing time to athletes that will contribute to the team. In the same way, businesses and organizations are looking for people that will contribute to their overall mission and goals. As students, we must use the resources we have to become indispensable players.
This blog post was written by Account Associate Maria Ribeiro.
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