After the September 25 Career Fair, I have noticed an influx of students talking about being unprepared for the job application process. I thought I’d share some (albeit unsolicited) advice that I’ve heard throughout my professional life. I’ve been in the work force since I turned sixteen, so hopefully my near-decade of real-life experience makes me slightly qualified to give advice.

For new students at Illinois Tech, whether you’re first-years or transfers, it can be tricky to figure out where to best spend your time – whether that’s studying with friends over a coffee, or locking in by yourself. In a city full of cafés, museums, libraries, and parks, I spent the last year scouring what’s nearby Mies campus for the best one.