Episode 61: Plan A, Plan B, and Plan You: Parallel Planning

Have you ever stayed committed to a major, job, organization, or career goal simply because you have already put so much time and effort into it? In this episode, Mallory, Leila and Michael discuss the sunk cost trap and why it can be so difficult to walk away from something that no longer feels right. They explore the difference between persistence and fear of change, the pressure to meet other people's expectations, and how to recognize when it is time to take a new direction. Whether you are questioning your major, reconsidering an opportunity, or simply figuring out your next steps, this episode is a reminder that changing your mind does not mean starting over. Your past experiences still have value, and you are allowed to choose a future that fits who you are becoming.

What does your everyday routine reveal about your future career? In this episode, Mallory, Michael, and Leila discuss the concept of an “energy audit” and how college students can use their daily experiences to better understand their career interests. From identifying the activities that energize you to recognizing what drains you, the conversation explores how your strengths, working style, and problem-solving preferences can provide clues about the type of career that might be right for you. Instead of feeling pressured to have your entire future figured out, learn how to turn everyday experiences into opportunities for career exploration and take small steps toward discovering what truly motivates you. 

Think your résumé is empty? Think again! In this episode of Major Choices, Leila, Michael, and Mallory explore how everyday college experiences can help build your future career. From campus jobs and part-time work to group projects, student organizations, volunteering, and class presentations, discover how the things you are already doing can help you develop valuable professional skills. Learn how to recognize your experiences, turn them into résumé-worthy accomplishments, and communicate your strengths to future employers. You don't need five internships or a perfect career plan to get started. Sometimes, you're building your career without even realizing it! 

You’ve probably heard that “who you know” matters when it comes to your career—but building connections isn’t just about finding someone who can get you a job. In this episode of Major Choices, we explore the idea of creating your own personal “board of directors”: a group of people who can offer different kinds of advice, encouragement, perspective, and opportunities throughout your college and career journey. From professors and peers to supervisors, mentors, career coaches, and people just a few years ahead of you, you may already have the beginnings of a powerful network without realizing it. We’ll talk about who every college student should have in their corner, how to start building those relationships, and why you don’t have to figure out your future alone. 

Networking can feel awkward, especially when you’re reaching out to people you’ve never met before. In this episode, Mallory, Jed, and Leila break down how students can connect with alumni in a professional and meaningful way. From understanding what networking actually means to learning how to send effective messages on LinkedIn, this episode provides practical guidance for starting conversations, asking thoughtful questions, and building genuine professional relationships. If networking has ever felt confusing or intimidating, this episode offers clear strategies to make it more approachable. 

Your schedule isn’t just about graduation requirements; it’s about building the skills employers want. In this episode, Mallory, Jed, and Leila walk IU students through how to decode scheduling classes, balance required classes with exploration, and choose courses that develop communication, critical thinking, and leadership. Whether you're exploratory, pre-business, or pre-nursing, learn how to turn your class schedule into a strategic tool for career development. 

Interview invites for summer are starting to roll in, are you ready? In this episode, Mallory, Jed, and Leila break down common interview nightmares students face and exactly how to fix them. From mastering the STAR method to answering the “greatest weakness” question with confidence, plus Zoom etiquette tips and how to use the StandOut platform, this is your practical guide to walking into interviews prepared. Whether you’re pre-business, pre-nursing, or exploratory, this episode helps you turn panic into confidence. 

Starting college at Indiana University with dreams of Kelley or Nursing? This episode breaks down what “limited capacity” really means and how to parallel plan like a pro from day one. Mallory, Leila, and Jed share honest advice on building backup plans, preparing mentally for every outcome, and navigating tough conversations with family. Whether you’re confident, anxious, or somewhere in between, this is your guide to staying grounded and successful at IU no matter where you land.

Syllabus week feels chill, until it isn’t. In this episode, Mallory, Leila, and Jed break down how to hack syllabus week so the rest of your semester doesn’t spiral. From putting every assignment into one calendar, to calculating the grades you need to hit your GPA goals, to confidently introducing yourself to professors in week one, this episode covers it all. Whether you’re a freshman or just trying to reset your habits, this episode helps you turn chaos into a game plan!

In the semester finale of Major Choices, Mallory, Brayden, and Jed dive deep into how underclassmen can use time off to improve their college experience and career readiness, without sacrificing rest, fun, or sanity. From low-pressure career exploration to tiny projects that actually pay off, the trio breaks down simple, realistic ways to level up during break while still giving yourself permission to recharge. Whether you’re curled up on the couch, back in your hometown, or avoiding questions from relatives about your major, this episode will help you balance productivity and relaxation the smart way.