During our time in Switzerland with the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) Congress, our group had the opportunity to learn more about agricultural communications around the world. We also got to visit many Swiss farms, learn about the agricultural industry in Switzerland, and network with agricultural journalists from around the world, all while taking in the beautiful scenery in Switzerland. 

When it was time to start my freshman year at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign there was a mix of emotions. On one hand, I was excited to start a new chapter in my life. On the other hand, I was terrified knowing I had a new sense of independence and could explore a new environment. During my first semester at Illinois, it was hard and discouraging when I felt that. I was getting a different treatment than others and nobody would talk to me. It was very intimidating having to prove I was capable and worthy of being in the same class.

In our college careers we will all go through at least a couple of job interviews, and it’s no secret that the interviewing process requires practice, and a few tries to really get it down. Being a senior now who has gone through a few interviews myself, there’s a few main takeaways I have from my own experiences and those around me.