Whenever I look back on my college life, I remember confusion and anxiety about the future. Looking at the other side, I want to go back to that period since it was when all possibilities and potentials existed in my life. Therefore, the most important things for you to do in college are finding your own talents and planning your future. I would like to suggest four steps to follow.

1. Endeavor to find your own talents
In my opinion, the most suitable time to find your unique talents is while you are in college. You have already grown up enough to be aware of your good points and shortcomings. Besides, you can objectively compare your competence with others, so you can realize your unique abilities to do something, which we might call “talents.” Of course, you should pass through some “trial and error” periods. Do not be afraid of making mistakes or failing, and try to experience as many things as you can.
2. Set up goals
Once you find your unique talents, set up goals according to them. But you do not need to be burdened by the idea of “setting the goals.” You do not have to declare a big ambition. Like the saying “A journey of a thousand miles must begin with the first step,” you should start by choosing an adequate career or job after you graduate from university. Every major is subdivided into specialized areas, so try to find your favorite job within your major field.

3. Concentrate on preparing adequate qualifications
To prepare for your bright future, the most essential step is this. Even if your ambition or dream is so wonderful, it will be useless unless you make efforts to make it come true. You should do your best to meet all qualifications needed to realize your dream. It includes getting certifications relevant to your future job, a good G.P.A. (Grade Point Average), and excellent English skills.

Because I am an English teacher and English is one of the most important qualifications in almost all areas, I would like to give you three tips to increase your English language skills. Firstly, enhance your English proficiency instead of just sticking to getting better points in English tests such as TOEFL or TOEIC. You should focus on having communicative language abilities such as writing, speaking, listening, and reading. Secondly, you should study English regularly. It is much better for you to study English at least for a very short time everyday than study for a long time all at once sporadically. Thirdly, to achieve communicative abilities in English, make full use of authentic materials, i.e. English newspapers, magazines, books, news, movies, dramas, and audio books. If it is too difficult for you to understand the raw materials, choose revised ones suitable for your English level.

4. Develop your own ways to get rid of stress and to maintain balance in your life.
While preparing for the future, you can feel stress when results come out below your expectations. Everybody goes through difficult times and one can experience the loss of self-esteem sometimes. When we go through difficult times, we really need to rest for a while before progressing to a better place. The best ways are keeping balance in your life and enjoying hobbies. They will ultimately give you energy and creativity to achieve your goal.

I know all the above steps may sound very simple but very difficult to follow. And the situation now may not look very bright for you to overcome all difficulties and finally achieve your goal. However, on the other hand, a critical moment is not the beginning of misfortune, but it could be a turning point for you. It is you who can make all miracles and glories in your future. I hope all of you have an unforgettable college life. Good luck for your bright future!