Editor’s Note: The College of Arts and Sciences (A&S) offers multiple immersion programs, including Discover Atlanta. Co-sponsored by A&S and the University’s Atlanta Regional Council, Discover Atlanta is a three-day immersion trip, in which students meet and network with alumni and other industry leaders at prominent companies. Linzy Dineen ’21—a Coronat Scholar and honors student, triple majoring in forensic science, biology and psychology—has this to say about her 2019 trip.  

As college students, we always are looking for ways to grow. Sometimes opportunities are right in front of us. Such was the case with Discover Atlanta, which I found out about on [the University's new career management tool] Handshake. Like most immersion programs, Discover Atlanta enables students to travel to cities across the country, gaining invaluable knowledge and connections along the way. I can attest to the value of Discover Atlanta, which has changed my life. 

As a triple science major on the pre-law track, I know how important it is—and how difficult it can be—to network with the right people. It is for this reason that I participated in Discover Atlanta. 

In addition to flying us to and from Atlanta, the program housed and fed 15 of us for three days—all expenses paid. Most of our time was spent meeting and networking with professionals at such companies as Coca-Cola; the Atlanta Hawks; and the Georgia Court of Appeals, where I have since become a research analyst intern. We also participated in a networking reception and a small-group dinner, both with area alumni.

Almost every person I met gave me unique, meaningful advice, changing my outlook on my education and career. Here are two such examples: 

1. Be prepared for ambiguity—something mentioned during our visit to Google, which became the theme of our trip. I suspect many of us will face the prospect of making a lateral career move or having a job that is phased out. I was encouraged to stay curious and embrace the power of change.
2. Persistence is crucial. I know the future is in my hands, and that I need to take charge of it, academically and otherwise. People told me that my future self would thank me.  

If you’re looking to learn more about professional development—from building your resume to managing your life after graduation, please consider enrolling in one of A&S' immersion programs. Any student, regardless of major, can benefit from a strong network of relationships. Discover Atlanta proves just how valuable they are.