Year Four: Synthesis, Reflection and Closure
The fourth year is the culmination of a student’s academic, co-curricular, and extracurricular experiences at Furman. It is the time for students to reflect upon their accomplishments and to bring into focus their future. For some students this is a time for integrating experiences within the major through capstone courses or extended research projects. It is also a time for students to inventory their experiences and acquired skills so as to be able to tell their Furman story.
- What do you envision for the year ahead?
- What courses will complement you major or program of study?
- If applicable, how will you complete a capstone experience such as a senior project, thesis or seminar?
- When people ask “What are you going to do?” can you answer in a way that tells them who you are and what is important to you?
- What has been your greatest learning experience?
- What skills have you developed while at Furman? How can these translate into your post-Furman career?
- Reflecting on your time at Furman, what do you know now that you wished you had known earlier in your Furman experience?
- What and who are resources to help you navigate your next steps?
- What are your plans after graduation? Have you met with a career counselor to discuss your post-Furman career plans?
- Attend classes, and be prepared.
- Attend CLP events that are of interest. Complete your CLPs to ensure that you will graduate on time.
- Participate in co-curricular and extracurricular activities.
- Attend Departmental Information events to understand what potential careers or post-graduation plans students pursue.
- Meet with an alumni mentor to discuss potential career options.
- Engage with your academic advisor, faculty member or other mentor about future options.
- Submit applications to graduate or professional programs (if applicable).
- Talk with faculty who know you about writing letters of recommendation.
- Learn about (and practice) strategies for successful job/graduate school interviews through conversations with faculty mentors and/or the Malone Center for Career Engagement.
- Maintain good academic and conduct standing.
- Meet, in person, with your academic advisor to discuss your plan for your final semester.
- Register for spring courses.
- Meet, in person, with your academic advisor to reflect on the previous semester and set goals for the future.
- Attend classes, and be prepared.
- Complete the CLP requirement.
- Meet with an alumni mentor to discuss potential career options.
- Engage with your academic advisor, faculty member or other mentor about future options.
- Explore professional development opportunities through the Malone Center for Career Engagement.
- Participate in Furman Engaged.
- Maintain good academic and conduct standing.
- Celebrate your accomplishments through graduation and becoming an alumnus/alumna.
- Provide future contact information to the Alumni Office so Furman can share networking and professional development information as well as information about Furman.
- Transition to life after Furman.