Advice from a Powers College of Business senior

Becca Studer grew up in a close, Clemson-loving family. Her grandfather, a ’69 alumnus, encouraged Studer to take a Clemson tour on campus while in the midst of making her college decision. After her tour, she knew Clemson was the place she wanted to be.

“I thought to myself, ‘This is an opportunity to be a part of something bigger. I felt like I could bring a lot to the table as a student and that going to Clemson could help me grow as a person. I kind of fell in love with Clemson that day.”

Since joining the Clemson Family in 2020, Studer has taken full advantage of all the University and Wilbur O. and Ann Powers College of Business had to offer, including a couple Signature Programs. Through serving on the Powers College of Business Student Advisory Board, being a Delta Sigma Pi representative, leading as the CEO of the Leadership Signature Program (LSP), joining the J. Daniel and Nancy Garrison Sales Innovation Program (SIP) and even taking part in some clubs outside the Powers College of Business, Studer has made the most of her experience during her four years.

Graduating this upcoming Spring with a double major in management and marketing, she is ready to walk across the stage, get her diploma and begin her career. As she prepares for life after graduation, Studer reflects on her time as a Powers College of Business student and the lessons she learned while making a home in Clemson over the last four years.

Embrace the experience

When Studer entered Clemson her first year, it was in the middle of the pandemic. Although it would have been convenient to visit home often, Studer made the intentional effort to stay on campus and immerse herself as much as possible. She says that the intentionality made a difference in her initial college experience and encourages others to do the same.

“It was hard at first. I’m really close with my family, but I wanted to start building my own life. I tried not to go home those first six weeks, and I would encourage any first-year student to do the same. I really wanted to dig deep into this Clemson culture, and I think it really paid off.”

Be authentic

Her second piece of advice is to be authentic. Studer talks about how overwhelming it can be to come to campus, meet successful, involved students, and not know where to start. Making the transition from student to professional can be difficult, but authenticity is key, Studer says.

“It’s important to pursue your own path. Not everyone’s going to be able to do everything, and you need to find what you’re passionate about or interested in, then focus on excelling in that area,” she explains. “Rather than trying to mimic what you think the ideal student or involved member is, try to be yourself.”

Be present

Since her time as a freshman on campus, Studer has taken the initiative to be present. Being present, according to Studer, means making the most of the time you are given and living in the moment.

“Getting caught up in whatever is going on in your life is something that everyone struggles with. That test you have tomorrow, the quiz you have today. But it’s so important to take a step back and really look at the big picture to appreciate where you are.”

Don’t overload yourself

As a student, there are countless clubs, organizations and programs to choose from. It can be easy to get overwhelmed. During her first year, Studer quickly realized that there was a benefit in being deeply involved in a few things rather than over-extending herself to be a part of everything.

“At first, I wanted to join everything. During my second semester here, I started getting overwhelmed and found it hard to manage my time with all I had committed to. I decided then to focus on the clubs and organizations I was most passionate about and really invest in a few rather than burn out.”

After graduation, Studer will move to Columbia, South Carolina, to work at ADP as an Associate District Sales Manager, an opportunity she’s really excited about. “I’m so excited to begin my sales journey with ADP. It’s been a long-time dream of mine to get into software sales! Several of my coworkers are also Clemson alumni, so I’m thrilled to get to work with fellow Tigers who share my love for this amazing school!”

Follow @clemsonbusiness on Instagram to see Becca’s Instagram story takeover for graduation!