Jacob Bogard

UHON 2000
11/15/16
Professional Interviews
What should I be studying outside of class?
Professor White: Of course, homework and readings for the classes you are in. In addition, learn
something that makes you happy. I am a lifelong learner, so I am usually taking music lessons, or
something else totally unrelated to my job. Learn a sport. Learn a language. Just peck at it if you
cannot give it a lot of time due to school obligations. There is a lot of free stuff out there look at
Kahn University or MIT Open classes.
Professor Buggey: I would recommend pursuing any area outside of class that is still related to your
subject major that you find interesting. Pursue something that you truly want to do, and not just
something you feel obligated to do.
What should I be doing outside of class- are there any programs or activities you would
recommend?
Professor White: Something physical walking, playing on an intramural team, anything to keep
from SITTING all day. It will reduce stress, and you will feel better.
Get enough sleep your brain needs down time to wash itself at the end of the day. (This is a real
thingyou also need to drink enough water.) These things will directly affect your academic
performance.
Get involved with a student group such as CEO, SAM or Beta Alpha Psi in the College of Business.
You will make friends (also a good stress reducer) in your major, and you will find things you can add
to your rsum when it is time to apply for a job.

If you have time, find a way to give back. Volunteer somewhere, whether it is a homeless shelter,
tutoring in Gear UP, or rocking babies at the hospital. Your eyes will be opened a little more (and it
helps the rsum).
Professor Buggey: One thing that I enjoyed outside of class was going to specific lectures and
workshops. These provide an opportunity to learn outside of the classroom, and lack the stress of an
actual class (and I believe there is one this Friday). There are many types of lectures like this ( and
creative workshops) offered at UTC, and I would recommend pursuing some of these, even if they are
unrelated to your major. In addition, it would be wise to consider joining an honors society; UTC has
a specific English honors society on campus.
What opportunities or experiences should I be seeking out?
Professor White: Consider studying abroad. Theres nothing like living in another culture to help
you understand your own, even if it is only for a semester.
Internships are also good to get your foot in the door of a company you might want to work for.
Some give you class credit. Some are paid. It is also a way to find out what things you dont want to
do!
Professor Buggey: I would pursue internships and research opportunities. In addition to this, I would
recommend pursuing internships that are not directly related to your major- they give you a chance to
discover whether you want to continue in a field or not, and help you decide perhaps what you dont
want to do. Researching is also important, as is getting work published as an undergraduate.

What are some ways I can be a stronger grad school applicant?

Professor White: Have experiences that show you are more than just book-learned. That said, dont
let your academics slide so you can have lots of experiences. It is a balance. A leadership role in

student organizations helps, because it shows you can manage your life/work/school balance and that
you are a team player.
Professor Buggey: Pursue activies outside of the classroom. Pursue internships, research, get work
published. Going to conferences can be a great way of getting your work shared, and provides an
opportunity to practice presenting your ideas.

Are there any areas I should be particularly focusing on?

Professor White: Time Management! That is the key to success in many things, along with having
the self-discipline to study when you need to. Most incoming college students arent very good at
this, and if you can learn, early on, what works best for you, you will flourish. (Dont pay $$$ for a
program just Google Time Management)
Professor Buggey: Focus on out of class work, but not so much so that your grades slip- there needs
to be a good balance. Focus on researching, internships, and the other out of class opportunities
weve discussed, but also focus on your grades and maintaining a good GPA.

Is there anything specifically related to becoming an analytical business consultant?

Professor White: I think it is being a logical thinker. Being able to look at a situation and see the
whole picture without getting bogged down in the details, while at the same time being able to see the
details and know what is important. Math skills will help, such as statistics and data analysis.
Communication skills are also very important. If you can see what the problems and solutions are,
but cannot explain yourself, you wont be very successful.
Professor Buggey: Again, I would recommend research and internships as a good start, as they
allow you to grow outside of class and coursework. In addition to that, I would recommend

networking; work closely with your professors, and partake in activities where you will meet
successful people in your field. I would also recommend pursuing professional writing, as a course
and as a hobby; it can be a major asset in many fields. Furthermore, communication is critical- you
can be as smart as you want to be and it wont make a difference if you cannot convey your ideas.

Do you have any advice in general for me?

Professor White: Take time to enjoy college (and life in general). People told me it was the best time
of my life while I was an undergrad, and I didnt believe themit turns out that was because I wasnt
having any fun. Once I got to Grad school, and figured out the balance, I was much happier.
Happiness comes from within you can be happy wherever you are. Rule 1: Dont sweat the small
stuff. Rule 2: Its all small stuff
Professor Buggey: Find what you like and pursue that. There is nothing wrong with changing your
major if you determine its not what you want to do. Dont think that its unacceptable to not graduate
in 4 years- it is better to graduate with a degree you are passionate about then it is to graduate early
or on time. I would also recommend studying what you like for as long as possible, and get the
highest education possible, before entering your field- it is extremely difficult to go back to school
once you have left. I would also say to enjoy college, and to not let the stress of college make the
experience unenjoyable.