Sophomore and junior years are the time to figure out what you want to study—and what you want to do with your future. The Kelley School of Business curriculum is intentionally designed to expose you to all facets of business, from quantitative areas like accounting and finance to interpersonal disciplines like management and marketing.

Discovering Your Path Through Coursework

If I could speak to my sophomore self, I’d emphasize how valuable this diverse curriculum truly is. Each class serves a purpose beyond simply checking a box. The core business courses aren’t just requirements—they’re opportunities to uncover what genuinely resonates with you.

That finance class that seems intimidating? It might reveal a talent for numbers you never knew you had. The marketing course you’re taking just to fulfill a requirement? It could spark a passion for consumer behavior and brand strategy. Even an operations class that sounds dry on paper might unveil a knack for process optimization that sets your future career path in motion.

Pay attention to what naturally engages you—which topics make you want to learn more and which assignments you actually enjoy. These are the clues that point toward your future.

Embrace Opportunities Beyond the Classroom

The true Kelley experience extends far beyond the classroom. Be open to joining clubs and organizations—they provide hands-on experience you won’t get from lectures or textbooks. Whether it’s a professional group aligned with your interests or something entirely new, these experiences will shape your perspective and expand your network.

When it comes to internships and job interviews, approach each conversation with curiosity rather than anxiety. Every interview is not just a test—it’s a chance to learn more about different industries, roles, and company cultures. Even the interviews that don’t lead to offers will teach you something important about yourself and the business world.

The Transformative Power of Travel

This advice cannot be emphasized enough: take full advantage of every travel opportunity Kelley offers. Whether it's a global immersion program, an international workshop, or a semester abroad, these experiences will transform the way you see the world—and how you think about business.

You’ll learn how to adapt to different cultural norms, communicate across boundaries, and approach challenges with a broader perspective. Employers value these skills, but more importantly, you’ll discover new parts of yourself that might stay hidden in familiar surroundings.

Build Meaningful Connections

Perhaps the most important piece of advice: be intentional about building relationships—with peers, professors, alumni, and professionals. These connections can become mentors, collaborators, and lifelong friends. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, engage in real conversations, and show genuine interest in others’ experiences.

Kelley’s network is powerful, but its value depends on your willingness to be an active participant. Sometimes a simple coffee chat with a professor or alum can provide insights that change the trajectory of your career.

The Bigger Picture

As a sophomore, it’s easy to get wrapped up in GPA worries and degree requirements. But the real value of these years lies in exploration and discovery. Every class, activity, and conversation is a potential clue to your future.

Stay open-minded. Say yes to the things that scare you just a little. Know that passion often finds you when you’re not looking for it. The coursework, the travel, and the relationships you build at Kelley won’t just prepare you for a job—they’ll help you figure out who you are and what kind of impact you want to make.