Out of college, Andrea Beauvais landed a job with Anheuser-Busch, Inc. in Houston, Texas. But, as she tells college hopefuls, there are a lot of distractions that could lead to your demise.
On Going To Class
"I went to all my classes in undergrad; I think that’s the only thing that saved me. Advice for future college students: “GO TO CLASS.” This way the professor sees your face and you always know when there will be a test or homework due. Trust me, they know who comes and who doesn’t, and this always affects how they grade. Even if you never study, the professors will think that you do if you show up every time — because so many people skip!"
On Distractions
"I had plenty of distractions as far as drinking is concerned. There were plenty of “distractions” everywhere in college. I saw people take it too far and get kicked out of school, arrested, (get) DUIs (Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol) and so on. These things have consequences later on. For example, I got a job working for a major beer company upon graduating with my master’s degree. They check for DUIs for up to five years prior to you being offered a job. Guess what? A DUI equals no job. Five years ago? I was a sophomore/junior in undergrad and could have easily had a minor in possession charge or been pulled over drunk. Know your limits and never, ever drive after drinking. It is always better to get a cab.
I probably partied way too much. It was hard to stop once college was over. Like anything, it depends on the person. College is all about balance. Some people can drink a lot and do fine in their classes while others have no tolerance and will flunk classes. You have to know your limits. Test them once or twice, and then use that to know when it's "time to go home."
On Paying the Bills
"I don't think you can ever have enough cash. I used to overdraw my account in undergrad all the time. In grad school, I had so many bills and worked hard to pay them all. I'm happy I worked so much. I think current students, especially those who don't play sports, should work. This will take some of the financial pressure off. Plus, let's face it, what the hell are you doing if you don't work in undergrad? Studying all day? People need to learn early how to balance their life and work. A part-time job in college is a good way to do that."
On Friends
"My college friends became my family, since I was 13 hours away from my hometown. I practically lived with my (volleyball) teammates. They know me like no one else does. … High school is so petty, (but) the friends you make in college will always be there."
Andrea Beauvais has a Master's degree in industrial/organizational psychology from the University of Missouri and a Bachelor's degree in psychology/business management from American International College.