–          Always be early: Years (and years) ago when I had my first job, the boy who trained me taught me the importance of being early. He would arrive ten minutes before his shift and was always prepared to work when it started. Being early is a sign that you are a consistent and reliable professional, and that’s a very basic thing employers look for in those they intend to invest in. So remember, if you’re on time, you’re late.

–          Practice good conversation: A common joke among young people today is relating to one another about how socially “awkward” they are. But social awkwardness is a trait of a child, and it isn’t amusing or endearing when adults still exhibit it, especially in a professional space. If you are still struggling with socializing or small talk, that isn’t entirely uncommon; so don’t beat yourself up, just practice! Making an effort to be aware about current events, making strong eye contact, and listening intently to others when they speak are surefire ways to build your confidence in conversation.

–          Mind your weekend habits: As you get older you’ll notice that with more privilege comes more responsibility, and how you handle that will have a great impact on your life. While it’s important to enjoy your time off, remember to watch your drinking and unnecessary spending during that time. You’ll also want to avoid partaking in questionable activities like using marijuana or hard drugs, being in the wrong places at the wrong times, and engaging with a crowd who doesn’t have your best interest at heart. Making healthy, responsible decisions on the weekend makes for a more focused and alert work week, so do yourself a favor and keep it wholesome.

–          Get enough sleep (and get the hell up on time): Everyone knows that adequate sleep is a vital component to optimal functionality, but for most people when they don’t go to sleep early enough they can’t wake up as early as they should. So focus not just on sleeping enough but on sleeping early enough to wake up at a reasonable hour. When you get yourself on an efficient sleeping schedule, your body and mind will run like a machine.

–          When in doubt, read: We all experience those moments in public when we pull out our phones for the sake of not having to interact with the strangers around us. Rather than scrolling through social media or playing games on your phone while you’re in the waiting room or waiting on your coffee, take a small book along with you and pull it out during those times. There is an infinite supply of affordable used books online and in local shops, and the best part is that they don’t fry your eyeballs. (And don’t worry about people judging you, no one’s ever thought look at that guy enriching his mind over there, what a weirdo! Despite what your ego tells you, people don’t care one bit about what you’re doing in public.)

–          Practice positive interaction with superiors: Any businessman worth his salt would agree that learning how to accept constructive feedback graciously is of the utmost importance. When it comes to dealing with your boss (and his boss, as you undoubtedly will), indicate that you are eager to be better. Always be honest and transparent when you don’t understand something or make a mistake, ask thoughtful questions often, and offer your time and take initiative to get things done. Take ownership over the areas in which you have room to grow. Vulnerability is part of maturity, and no one wants to work with someone who can’t acknowledge the fact that they’re human.

–          Say “yes” (and “no”): Keep in mind that your time is the most valuable asset you will ever have. When deciding whether or not to take on a new project, make sure to assess all of the pros and cons that will come of you committing your time to it. According to the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators representative Shannon Schwaebler, “Don’t take on excess opportunities just for the heck of it. Remember to be conscious and ask yourself why. What is your purpose for taking this opportunity on? Recognize when you have a legitimate purpose and when it doesn’t align with your strengths and passions. Through the past two years I have had moments where I am completely in my groove and others where I am completely burnt out. However, acknowledging those moments and speaking up for your own wellbeing is essential in staying sane in this world we call student affairs. I firmly believe you cannot run on an empty cup.”