Start Strong. Strike Boldly. Own Your Career.
Starting college is an exciting new chapter—and it’s also the beginning of your career journey. At the Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC), we believe in helping you begin with the end in mind. That means using your first year to explore your strengths, clarify your goals, and make informed choices that lead to a successful and fulfilling future. Whether you’re a first-time freshman or a transfer student, these tips will help you transition with purpose and confidence—so you can make the most of every opportunity from day one.
Start strong: explore our career tools, meet your career coach, and take the first step toward the future you’re here to build.
1. Finish Key Tasks Early
Knock out early tasks like completing your FOCUS 2 Career Assessment and exploring the Career Foundations Micro-Certificate. These tools are designed to help you understand your strengths, explore career options, and make informed decisions that align with your goals.
2. Think About Your Future Now
It’s never too early to start thinking about your career. Reflect on what success looks like for you—what kind of lifestyle do you want? What are your interests and values? Use your first semester to explore majors, talk to your academic advisor, and schedule a career coaching appointment to start mapping your path.
3. Build Your Capacity, Track Your Achievements, and Make Connections
Following the CPDC’s CAR Framework—Capacity, Achievement, and Relationships—will set you apart. Join a student organization. Take on a leadership role. Attend workshops and employer events. These experiences help you build essential skills, strengthen your resume, and expand your network.
4. Bring 2–3 Professional Outfits
You’ll need them sooner than you think! FAMU students are expected to attend career expos, networking events, and department-hosted programs that require business or business casual attire. Investing in a few polished looks now will help you make strong first impressions later.
5. Visit the Career Center Early and Often
Don’t wait until senior year to connect with us. The CPDC offers resume help, mock interviews, major and career exploration, job shadowing, internship prep, and more. Think of us as your career success partner—starting now.
6. Use Campus Resources as a Team, Not a Last Resort
You’re not in this alone. Tutoring, academic advising, mental wellness services, financial aid support, and career coaching are all part of your success team. Asking for help is a strength, not a setback.
7. Stay Organized and Manage Your Time Wisely
College comes with more freedom—and more responsibility. Use a planner or app to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and meetings. Set goals each week and check in with yourself on your progress.
8. Say Yes to New Experiences
The first year of college is about discovery. Go to that info session, apply for that part-time job, attend that guest speaker event. Every opportunity is a chance to learn something new about yourself or your future.
