ABC11 anchors, reporters give advice to recent graduates

So you've graduated, now what? We had some of our ABC11 anchors and reporters give some advice for new graduates.

Dejuan Hoggard

Now that you have your degree, here's where your persistence and fortitude come into play. Even when things don't go your way (and at times they won't), keep pushing towards your goal. You define your success. You can do it! Have fun and germanium thulium oxygen neon yttrium!

Heather Waliga

Don't take yourself too seriously! Work hard, but remember to make time for fun and family. Life is way too short! Travel often. Take up a hobby you're passionate about. Get outside your comfort zone. It's the best way to grow. And remember, it's okay to make mistakes. Learn from them, and don't be afraid to ask for help.

Joel Brown

Wherever your career leads, find mentors immediately. The great thing about life is there's always someone who has been where you are and already figured out how to succeed. Find those people and soak in all you can!

Then, pay it forward!

Diane Wilson

There will be roadblocks but keep forging forward. Early in my career, I had a boss who fired me and told me I would never make it as a reporter as they didn't like how I talked. 15+ years later, I'm still doing what I love...reporting the news and telling viewers' stories.

Tim Pulliam

Save money and get a roommate after college. You'll want that extra cash to enjoy a night on the town or save for later. Stay in touch with your classmates. They will be one of your best professional networks--because as you grow in your career they will too, and become a resource for you. I experience this over and over again.

Andrea Blanford

"Congrats, Grad!"

...Now, welcome to the real world! And oh, what a beautiful world it is! Within the first few days after clutching that diploma and turning your tassel, I can guarantee you'll come to realize just how precious those eight fleeting semesters were. Hopefully, you've been relishing the afternoon strolls through campus, midnight pizza runs with roommates, and library study sessions that somehow always end at a favorite campus hangout instead. Life, up until this point, has been a really good ride, but here's the good news: you're now in the driver's seat and all those big dreams you're carrying with you across the stage on graduation day, are yours to lose. This is where you finally begin getting to where you're going.

Yes, there will be taxes and bills to pay, long hours at the office (whatever your 'office' may be!), and even lonely nights away from friends and family. Some of you may look around and see your fellow recent graduates living the type of lifestyle you wish you could, either full of adventure or surrounded by familiar faces. But to those of you taking a risk, perhaps beginning your new journey in unfamiliar territory, you got this! Don't be fooled by the fear of missing out. As long as you're working hard, giving back, and healthily pursuing your goals, you're right where you need to be. If and when you feel the pressure to choose a different path, slow your roll. You have time. And no matter what, you'll have made the right decision when you choose to learn along the way. I leave you here with one last thing...If you've earned it, don't let anyone tell you you're too young to be where you want to be! Congratulations, Class of 2016!

Anna Laurel

Take risks. Be teachable. Save a little money every paycheck. Pray often. When you fail, try again.