From Freshman to Graduate: New Lander Alumni Share Tips for Success
As high school graduates in the Class of 2026 spend the summer preparing for one of life’s biggest transitions, recent Lander University graduates have a message for those about to begin their college journeys: believe in yourself, embrace new opportunities and don’t be afraid to step beyond your comfort zone.
The new Lander alumni -- who recently crossed the commencement stage themselves and are beginning careers, graduate studies and new adventures of their own -- say some of their most rewarding experiences came from taking chances. Whether it’s joining a student organization, pursuing a leadership role, studying abroad, conducting research or simply introducing yourself to someone new, they encourage incoming college students to remain open to challenges that can help them grow personally and professionally.
They also emphasize the importance of becoming involved on campus from the very beginning.
“Take advantage of all that your college or university has to offer and immerse yourself in student life as much as possible,” said Rose Castillo, who earned a bachelor’s degree in criminology, complemented by minors in chemistry and forensic science. “That is where most of your enjoyable memories and friendships will come from. Do everything that you have the opportunity to do.” Castillo speaks from personal experience, having served for two years as president of Lander’s True Crime Club. She was also a member of the Honors College, and studied abroad at the University of Winchester.
Embrace Change, Get Involved
Nursing graduate Matthew McNeill said stepping out of a person’s comfort zone is vital. “College flies by, so just say yes to things, get involved and meet people. You never know who or what you might end up loving.”
And McNeill offered words of encouragement for those unsure about their first steps. “It’s okay if you don’t have everything figured out right away, because most people don’t. Just show up, work hard and trust that it’ll all work out.”
Chelsey Driver, who earned a bachelor’s degree in public health while working full-time at Lander, said high school students should give themselves some grace and “remember that your path does not have to look like anyone else’s. It’s OK if you don’t go to college right away after high school or if your journey takes a little longer than expected.”
From her own experience, “I’ve learned that what matters most is not when you finish, but that you finish and keep moving forward,” Driver said. “College can feel overwhelming at times, but staying focused, being willing to ask for help and taking things one step at a time really makes a difference.”
Braylon Barbour says time passes quickly in college. “Make the most of your experience.”
Make the Most of Your College Experience
A transfer student who earned a bachelor’s degree in sport management, Braylon Barbour said students should “make the most of your college experience because it’s over in the blink of an eye.”
He said the first of two quotes he follows in life is to “be great where your feet are.”
The second, Barbour said, is from biblical scripture and focuses on the struggles students may have at times. “The pain that you’ve been feeling can't compare to the joy that is coming.”
Nursing graduate Ty’Brea Aureana Johnson concurred with Barbour. “Never give up when things get hard. College will challenge you in ways you don’t expect,” she said. “There will be moments where you question yourself, but don’t let those moments define you. Let them grow you.”
Johnson said some of the hardest days will help define the person you become, and some of the best memories will come from the moments you didn’t plan -- the late nights studying and the hangouts with friends.
“The small wins will all become part of your story. So, take risks, trust yourself and enjoy the journey,” Johnson said.