By Communication Consultants Xinyi Cui (Accounting and BIS, ’22) and Lili Tang (Accounting and BIS, ‘22)

Welcome Back Series, Part 2 – Fall 2021:

Hopefully you are adjusting to the new semester while enjoying the reunion and on-campus life. The RCBC is excited to see everyone back on campus and is eager to address any communication concerns you may have. Here, we will continue our welcome series, with notes to our juniors and seniors as they shift into another important stage of college life.

Dear Juniors:

After two years at Lehigh, you are used to college life and have a clearer goal for your personal development. When you determine your major(s), you have three online tools to understand major(s)’s different tracks and courses – the degree audit, Banner, and Lehigh course website. Without doubt, the best way would be communicating with your professors, your advisors, and seeking advice from the senior students who have taken upper level courses already. Additionally, you need to make an important decision on your future plan: whether to look for an internship in summer or to further develop your academic interests. For the former, most companies are willing to open the doors to juniors with a variety of internship programs. It is recommended to improve your resume and conduct research on preferred companies and opportunities, which help you better prepare for the networking and interviews. On the other hand, if you hope to gain more knowledge about your academic field(s), this is a good time to talk with your professors and look for potential research opportunities. Don’t forget to do research on the graduate programs offered by either Lehigh or other universities, so you won’t miss any update or requirements of the applications. 

Dear Seniors:

Finally, seniors, you are almost there! We hope you have enjoyed the past three years at Lehigh and will also enjoy your last year here before transitioning to a brand new environment. Some questions to ask yourself: 

– What goals have you set for yourself in college and what do you need to do to reach them? 

– How will you continue to balance the three elements of social life, study, and sleep? 

– What’s your plan or wishes for this year?  

You have a lot of expectations of your future. So prepare yourself by searching for work and study opportunities, keeping a folder with all the required job application documents, going to the career expo held by Lehigh on September 23, getting to know some alumni, and talking with your professors to receive more life advice. Last but not least, don’t forget to relax and have fun with your college friends! 

Dear juniors and seniors, though there may be more obstacles and challenges coming towards you, no matter what decisions you make down the road, it’s always helpful to practice carpe diem- seize the day.

Once again, welcome back everyone!

Get information and resources about our center at The Philip Rauch Center for Business Communication.