Take the Shot: Why College Students Should Always Say Yes to Opportunity

The biggest mistake a student can make is waiting for the perfect opportunity.

When you're in college, it's easy to fall into the trap of waiting—waiting for the perfect internship or the perfect moment to "feel ready." But the truth is, the opportunities that shape your future rarely show up with a perfect label. Especially in today's world where you need more than a college degree to land that good job or get into a top graduate school.

Sometimes, they show up unexpectedly. And when they do, you have to take the shot.

From TurboTax to Cybersecurity

A while back, I accepted an internship with Foundever, working as a customer support advocate. Little did I know, I would be working with Intuit TurboTax to support customers and share feedback to make this internship even better for other students. At first, it didn't seem directly tied to my major—I'm studying Cyber Forensics & Security at Marshall University. But what I didn't realize then was that this opportunity would teach me lessons no textbook ever could.

I learned to work under pressure. I learned to work as a team. I learned how to protect data and build trust with users during the most sensitive and stressful time of year—tax season. I saw how security and service go hand in hand.

That one "yes" led to more. I got to attend a leadership trip at Intuit TurboTax HQ in San Diego. I got connected with peers, mentors, and leaders. And eventually, I landed a summer internship in cybersecurity at WesBanco where I'm now working on real-world projects like threat analysis, credential management, and vulnerability assessments.

Why Saying Yes Matters

College isn’t just about grades and lectures—it’s about growth. And that growth doesn’t happen by waiting for the “perfect” fit. It happens by saying yes and exploring more opportunities. Even the scary stuff. Especially the scary stuff.

When you step into a role that challenges you, it builds:

• Confidence: Proving to yourself that you can handle new challenges.
• Communication Skills: Learning to articulate ideas and work with diverse teams.
• Professional Awareness: Understanding how businesses operate from the inside.
• Real Industry Insight: Gaining practical knowledge that goes beyond the classroom.

The earlier you start saying yes, the sooner you discover what you’re capable of.

When industry leaders give students a shot, it changes lives. These opportunities don’t come out of thin air. They exist because people in business choose to invest in students.

I’ve been lucky to work with leaders at Intuit, WesBanco, and Marshall who believe in opening doors. And I can tell you firsthand: when a professional takes the time to give students a chance—whether it’s a meeting, a recommendation, or an internship—it can change that student’s entire path and even life. In today’s world, where competition is high and access isn’t equal, that kind of support isn’t just generous. It’s essential.

It’s Bigger Than One Student

When companies invest in students, they’re not just helping one person. They’re building a better future. Students gain skills, confidence, and a real sense of direction. Organizations build loyalty, foster innovation, and shape the next generation of talent. Communities benefit from students who return with knowledge, drive, and a real sense of purpose. It is a ripple effect—and it starts with someone saying “yes.”

So Here’s What I’ll Leave You With:

To fellow students: Take the opportunity, even if it scares you. Especially if it scares you. It won’t just build your resume—it will build you and your network.

To professionals and companies: Keep opening those doors. Keep investing in the next wave of leaders. You might not always see the result right away, but what you’re doing is bigger than a program or a paycheck. You’re shaping the future.

Thanks for reading—and if you’re ever unsure whether or not to take the shot, here’s your sign:

Say yes.