Four graduating seniors share their advice for underclassmen
Public Relations major, Michaela Anderson
Photo courtesy of Michaela Anderson
As graduation day approaches, many Lee seniors prepare to transition out of college and into the workplace or to pursue higher education.
Four soon-to-be Lee graduates shared how their college experiences shaped them and prepared them for what comes next.
Double major in healthcare administration and business administration Brandon Peek plans to pursue his MBA after graduation, with the hope of eventually working in healthcare.
Peek has sought guidance from others during his time at Lee in order to achieve his goals, and he offers the following advice to underclassmen.
“Start your search early,” Peek said. “It’s never too early to start planning. You should try to get an internship during school so that you have experience to help you get a job, and make sure you start looking for a new job before graduation hits.”
Peek said that part of his pursuit of success involved identifying his top priorities during college.
“My biggest piece of advice would be to focus on what is important,” Peek said. “There is only so much time in the day, and as college students we always have options as to what to do. Make sure you prioritize what is important and base your time off of that list.”
Brandon Peek is graduating with a double major in healthcare administration and business administration.
Photo courtesy of Brittney Peek
Public relations major Michaela Anderson said that she wants to remind students that it’s okay not to have a plan right away.
“Use your resources—meaning talk to people and make those connections,” Anderson said. “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Also, make sure that your resume is top-notch.”
Upon graduation Anderson hopes to stay in the Chattanooga area, but she says that she is open to follow where the Lord leads her.
Sociology major Elisabeth Musacchio reflected on her four years of college and the importance of making the most of one’s time.
“I would say that in my experience, we regret the things we didn’t do more than we regret the things we did,” said Musacchio. “Keep that in mind when making decisions about academics, relationships and anything else college might have to offer.”
Musacchio will begin working at Foundation House through the Americorp Vista program following graduation. She eventually wants to work with children through a nonprofit organization.
Graduating Sociology major Elisabeth Musacchio has advice for undergrads.
Photo courtesy of Elisabeth Musacchio.
Business administration major Jorge Dheming echoed Peek’s advice to start planning early for graduation. Dheming has managed to work two internships during his college career, making new connections in the process.
He notes that it is important to start networking early even if students have yet to choose a career path.
“There is always a level of uncertainty when you are about to take a step like this one,” Dheming said. “However, it is important to put it all in God’s hands. Try to create as many opportunities as you can. Take a holistic approach to the decision-making process, considering the different areas in life that will be impacted by your decision.”
Dheming has two job opportunities after graduation: one with First National Citizens Bank (FNCB) in Cleveland as a credit analyst and one with Life Care Centers of America in Dallas as an executive director in training.
“[At] the end of the day, if you have placed this decision in God’s hands, [you can] find peace knowing he will guide you and take care of you wherever you go,” Dheming said.
Undergraduate Commencement will occur on May 4 at 9:30 a.m. at the South Campus Quad Lawn and will be moved to the Paul Dana Walker Arena in the event of inclement weather.
