“You won’t be treated like this in the real world!” We’ve all heard this infamous quote at one point in our lives. Whether it was in high school from a teacher who seemed to be always working against you or your mom or dad when you won’t do your own laundry. Entering the “real world” is a scary thing to conquer, and, as your college career continues and comes to a close, here are some tips on how to be a successful young adult in the professional world.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help/advice.

There is not a single CEO out there that got where they are today without asking for even a little help along the way. Finding someone you can look up to in the field you are pursuing a career in is crucial. It could be someone famous or someone you know personally. They can be the person you turn to for help when you are struggling. Don’t forget that they were once in your shoes, too.

Don’t be discouraged by the menial tasks or jobs.

It is rare to get a dream job coming right out of college, so don’t be scared to take a job that isn’t particularly in your “five-year plan.” Success is like a ladder: you have to climb to reach the top. So, just because you’re the coffee-grabbing intern after graduation, don’t get disheartened.

Don’t be afraid to speak up.

Just because you are just starting your professional career doesn’t mean you don’t have a voice. Your opinion matters, and companies will be expecting you to be bringing something new to the table as a new hire. Speak up! You might have the next greatest thing hidden in your mind.

Use every situation as a learning experience.

No one should ever stop learning, even after college. It’s important to always be looking for new learning opportunities and find the opportunities in unexpected places. Also, don’t let setbacks or “failures” slip by you and not learn anything from them. As Master Yoda once said, “The greatest teacher, failure is.”