Advice for new grads

Dear Creighton Class of 2025,

There are thousands of fellow Bluejay alumni who remember being exactly where you are now, standing at the start of life's newest chapter, ready to take that next bold step forward.

Like you, they graduated, and they were so excited. And driven. And hopeful. And purposeful. And, well, maybe a little nervous.

What's the best piece of advice they received?
What's something they wish they would have known?
What words of wisdom would they like to share with you, the Class of 2025?

We asked a few members of the Creighton community and below is what they said (a few more alumni shared their perspectives within this post on our Creighton Alumni Facebook page):
 

People may not care what you know, but they will, once they know that you care.

  — David Wenthold, BSBA'00
 

Don't ever be afraid to ask for something just because someone might tell you 'No.'

  — Beth Hansen, JD'91
 

Be a balanced (wo)man: Body, Mind & Spirit! I applied what I learned while at Creighton during my undergraduate & MBA studies, through the Kappa Alpha Beta national honor society, as a resident advisor, and at the Creighton Retreat Center! Now, I am grateful for a dream job, dream life and dream education. Congratulations & all the best to you!

  — Pat Lazure, BSBA'98, MBA'07
 

Believe the people who believe in you.

  — Michael Rooney, BA'77
 

Embrace being the beginner. Your fresh perspective and eagerness to learn are assets, not weaknesses. … Build relationships intentionally, not just professionally, as these connections often become your greatest sources of mentorship, opportunity, and career guidance throughout your life. … Be willing to step outside of your comfort zone and take on things that you have no idea how to do, as these often lead to greater success.

  — Doug Traster, BSBA'94
 

When you go to your job, no matter what you do, do it the best you can. This means more to a boss than how smart you are. Have a great attitude, be positive and work hard. That’s very rare these days. Show them that you care, smile and accept feedback. This will get you so far in your organization because now days this is hard to find. Don’t associate with complainers or people who do the least they can to get by. They’re out there everywhere and you can get in with them easily so just don’t!

  — Elisa Murphy, BA'94
 

'Good manners will open doors that the best education cannot.' These are not my words but I firmly believe in them. Always stand up when you are introduced and always address anyone older than you as Mr., Ms. or Dr. until you are told otherwise.

  — Steve Scholer, JD'79
 

Be of the world and in the world so as to make the world a better place during one's all too brief stay with your fellow human beings. You can make all the difference in the world with your life! Make every effort to do so.

  — Hughleen Thorsen, BA'96
 

* * *

Looking for more advice? Or, are you interested in finding out more about Creighton's alumni network supports recent graduates?

Check this out: Alumni Relations FAQ