Graduation, whether from high school or college, is a big deal. You’re stepping out into the unknown, pursuing your dreams and shaping your career. To inspire you as you take the next step, we asked successful St. Louisans to share some words of advice.
1.) Don’t be afraid to fail. You’ll look back on your failures as the most important moments in your life. 2.) Get a job as soon as possible that aligns with your passion, even if it’s cleaning toilets at your dream company. You’d be surprised how quickly you can be promoted if you’re willing to work and be humble enough to do it. ~Katie Lee, Katie’s Pizza & Pasta Osteria owner
Look, there are hassles that go with anything you choose to do. The trick is to choose what you truly have passion for. That way the hassles don’t wear you down. And remember: It’s not about the will to win, it’s the will to prepare to win. So be disciplined and prepare well. Last, the journey is at least as important as the destination. Have fun and celebrate along the way. ~Arnold Donald, Carnival Corporation CEO
Don’t stress too much about what your major is going to be—it usually doesn’t matter much after college. Take classes with professors who inspire you, follow your natural curiosities (not what you think you should be interested in), and study abroad in a developing country. That is an education in and of itself. ~Molly Rockamann, EarthDance founding director
Best of luck, grads, and a few words (clichés?) of advice: Follow your passion; don’t listen to negativity; take care of your body and mind;make time to laugh and love; kindness matters. ~Nichole Berlie, KSDK Today in St. Louis morning anchor
Don’t dabble, dive in. In order to find what you’re passionate about, you’ve got to jump in with both feet. You’ll never find your calling if you don’t give something your 100-percent focus, attention and commitment. Too many folks think multitasking is a career path. Get a job in a field you’re interested in, and give that job your all. ~Josh Allen, Companion Baking owner
