My new boss asked me to move into the dorms early so I could start working sooner. So there I was on the 12th floor of South Hubbard Hall, the only resident in the entire building. As I sat in my window seat watching the sun set over Michigan State’s campus in August 2022, my mind raced with questions about what lay ahead.

Classes began, my schedule filled up, and as the weeks passed, I was surprised by how much I was learning from my new job. I’d assumed the only skill I’d gain was how to scan a student ID when the fraternity team showed up for flag football.

Instead, I learned the importance of responsibility. I packed my lunch, left enough time to get from class to work, and dressed for Michigan’s unpredictable weather. Yes, I was stressed — but in a good way. I realized I was the only one I could count on to be prepared. That sense of independence wouldn’t have developed if I hadn’t worked an on-campus job. I discovered who I was and learned that I can rely on myself.

I also learned how to organize my life. I budgeted my paychecks, set alarms to wake up on time, found campus shortcuts, and made sure to finish my class assignments before work. None of these were skills I expected to gain from that job — but here we are.

Later that freshman year, I took on two more jobs: refereeing intramural volleyball and basketball, and working as a social media content creator at The State News. I’ve kept both jobs through my sophomore, junior and now senior years. Without those experiences, I’d be a completely different version of myself.

I love sports, and working with volleyball and basketball has allowed me to keep one of my passions alive, even though I’m not a collegiate athlete. It’s a job, but it also brings fun into my life. Sports bring me joy, and sharing that with others reminds me not to take life too seriously. Sometimes, you really should just go play an IM volleyball game for fun.

At The State News, I’m surrounded by creative, organized, passionate people like myself. 

I’ve made great friends through this organization. Seeing them on campus, in class, in the newsroom and even on my study abroad has brought a sense of home and comfort that surrounds me wherever I go. I know I can chat with anyone in the office no matter their age, major or job title.

Working at The State News has given me the chance to build professional skills while surrounded by my peers. We’re all working toward our degrees and future careers. Having a community that understands and supports each other has boosted my confidence and made me feel seen.

Through these experiences, I’ve learned that a job doesn’t have to be something you dread. It can teach you unexpected skills and connect you with friends you’ll keep for life.

Of course, I’ve learned and grown through classes and social life, but my work experiences have surprised me the most. Don’t overlook how taking on new responsibilities can inspire real growth.