Thriving in your first role: Advice from AU alumni

Landing your first job is just the beginning — navigating it with confidence is the next challenge.

At a recent AU Grad Networking Group session, three alumni shared their insights and encouragement for fellow Spartans starting their careers. Molex Associate Product Manager Jaime Lopez ’18, ’20 MBA, AU Campus Internship Coordinator Dalin Johnson ’23, and AU Career Counselor Alex Ziemann ’18 offered an honest look at life after college and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.

Here are practical takeaways from the conversation that can help you thrive in your transition from college to career:

Your network is bigger than you think.

Each speaker credited their professional opportunities to connections they made during or shortly after their time at AU. Whether it was professors, classmates, or mentors, those relationships opened doors, led to new opportunities, and provided guidance during key decision points.

“I didn’t leverage my network enough when I was job searching,” said Lopez. “And I saw others land great roles because they had someone to open the door.”

Ziemann explained how every one of her early roles came through people she knew, from professors to classmates.

The takeaway? Your network is bigger than you think. Don’t be afraid to reach out. You never know who might lead you to your next opportunity.

Mistakes happen, and that’s okay.

Early career missteps are part of the process. But rather than fear making mistakes, the alumni encouraged grads to embrace them as learning moments.

Lopez recalled walking into early interviews trying to sound like he knew it all — something he later realized wasn’t necessary. “Being honest about what you don’t know is more powerful than pretending you know everything,” he said.

Similarly, Johnson admitted to saying, “I have no weaknesses,” in an interview for a part-time job — a moment that makes her laugh now. And Ziemann emphasized the importance of documenting your wins so you can recognize your growth and combat imposter syndrome.

Your path might surprise you.

None of the panelists ended up exactly where they thought they would when they were students, and that turned out to be a good thing.

Ziemann entered AU focused on forensic psychology, but discovered a passion for career development through a student job. Johnson, an English major, didn’t envision working in higher education, but found a natural fit on campus that still lets her flex her writing and communication skills. Lopez’s trajectory changed after the pandemic, prompting him to take a chance in marketing and ultimately leading to a role in product management at a global tech company.

Their stories offered a reassuring reminder: Your degree doesn’t dictate your destiny, and unexpected turns can lead to meaningful, fulfilling work.

Relationships at work are built on trust and curiosity.

Navigating a new workplace can feel overwhelming, especially with unspoken norms, but the panelists agreed that professionalism, reliability, and genuine curiosity can help you make a strong start.

Johnson recommended starting out “more professional than you think you need to be,” then observing the environment and adapting to your team’s tone. She also noted how small talk, like complimenting a coworker’s shoes or sharing lunch ideas, can lead to genuine connections.

Meanwhile, Lopez emphasized the importance of reliability: “Do what you say you’re going to do, ask questions, and follow through.” That’s how you earn respect, especially when you’re new.

You’re not expected to know everything.

One of the biggest misconceptions among early-career professionals is the belief that you need to meet every qualification before applying for a job or accepting a role.

“Be a sponge,” Ziemann encouraged. “Ask questions. Learn as you go. And remember — it’s okay to start in a job that wasn’t part of your original plan.”

LinkedIn matters — and so does your online presence.

When one attendee asked how to handle a school’s request to make her social media private, the panelists offered thoughtful advice on digital boundaries. Ziemann noted, “It’s not about hiding something — it’s about protecting your space.”

Lopez shared that he keeps professional contacts off his personal social media to maintain healthy boundaries. The group also emphasized the value of LinkedIn for networking and career exploration, such as conducting informational interviews. “People are more open to connecting than you think,” Ziemann said. “Especially when you’re respectful and curious.”

Start where you are and just keep going.

Whether you're just beginning your job search or finding your rhythm in a full-time role, the biggest takeaway from the session was simple: You don’t need to have it all figured out. Lean into your community, take initiative, and give yourself permission to learn and grow.

Looking to connect with more AU grads or join a future session? Join the Aurora University Career Network group on LinkedIn to stay in the loop.

Need personalized support? Schedule an appointment with Career Services on Handshake or reach out via email at career@aurora.edu.