Things I wish I knew...

Recently we asked our LETU Alumni Council to provide some feedback regarding: things I wish I knew when I graduated. Here are some nuggets of wisdom from Council Member Seth Buttner ('94), below. Next week we will feature some more great advise from other LETU Alumni Council members. Hope you enjoy!

1. Understand general financing things like school loans, car loans, credit cards. It will keep you out of trouble! Also, get really familiar with your employer's 401K program, company pension plan and saving plans, and health plans!!!

2. “Humility” is what gets you ahead in the corporate world …in the long run. If they are looking for quick success; then sure, their academic success will be a great help. But for long-term, respected leadership then patience and humility will go a long way.

3. Learn how to be organized. Practice organizing your private life and it will spill over into work life. Get a PalmPilot, i-Phone, or whatever. It’s An Investment!

4. Your personal, social, and communication skills are key. I was very technical in my academic career and now 75% of what I do in my career is communication. My advice: take a speech class and pay attention to writing skills classes, might be more valuable then you think.

5. Get a good idea how industries work, even if it is not your chosen career, that’s okay, look at it as your future competitor. Take advantage of your student traveling -driving home on summer and spring breaks; any chance you get, stop in somewhere that strikes your curiosity and ask for a tour; most companies have tours host in place. Who knows you may end up working for one of them, or against one of them…This is free knowledge and the more you know about your company, or competitor, it’s a bonus!

6. Learn to cook something significant - like a steak and potatoes. Know the different cuts of meat and learn the difference between Prime, Choice and Select, etc. (i.e. interviewers look at what your are buying, and it’s a good waterhole/small talk at the office.) Also helps on dates - shows you’re not just academic smart.

7. Get a Passport. If you don’t already have one, go out with a friend while you’re still in school. To have this in hand starting job might open doors. Be ready! You never know!!!