As New Scooters 4 Less celebrates 21 years in business, I can’t help but reflect on the journey that got me here. College was an incredible time, full of learning, experiences, and friendships. But looking back, there are definitely things I wish I had known then that might have made the journey even better. So, for the students out there (or anyone looking for a little life advice), here are five things I wish I had known when I was in college.
1. Get Beyond the Boundaries of Campus
Gainesville is an incredible city, but for a long time, I didn’t realize just how much it had to offer beyond the University of Florida campus. I didn’t even discover local gems like The Top until after I graduated! There’s a whole world outside of campus—amazing restaurants, small businesses, nature trails, and cultural experiences. Exploring the city you’re in, not just your campus, will open your eyes to new places, people, and opportunities. If you’re a student, take time to venture out—you won’t regret it.
2. You Don’t Have to Have Your Entire Career Path Figured Out Yet
In college, there’s an overwhelming pressure to know exactly what you’re going to do with your life. I remember feeling like I needed to have my career mapped out by graduation. But the truth is, I had no idea that entrepreneurship would be my path until my last semester. I was fortunate that business found me when it did, but if you don’t have it all figured out yet—don’t worry. Life has a way of guiding you where you’re meant to be. Stay open to opportunities, take internships, and try new things. The experiences you gain will help shape your future more than a rigid plan ever could.
3. Find a Church and Stay Rooted
With college comes a whirlwind of experiences, influences, and distractions. While it’s a time of growth and self-discovery, it’s also important to stay grounded. I wish I had found a church to attend regularly while in school. Surrounding yourself with a faith-based community can provide guidance, encouragement, and a strong foundation to help navigate the ups and downs of college life. Stay connected to your beliefs, because they will anchor you when things feel uncertain.
4. Get Out of Your Dorm and Meet People
Some of the best advice I can give? Get out of your dorm room or apartment and put yourself out there! Join clubs, organizations, or any group that interests you. I played trumpet in the Gator Marching Band, and through that experience, I met many of my closest friends. But beyond just social circles, learning how to connect with people is key to success in life and business. People do business with and refer those they know and like. Even as a student, go to networking events, attend Chamber of Commerce meetups, and build relationships. Those connections can help shape your future career.
5. Explore as Many Interests as Possible
When I was in college, I thought I was going to be in the music industry. I interned at ROCK 104, hosted their Battle of the Bands events, helped with promotions, and even interned at Skylab Recording Studios. Through those experiences, I not only learned a ton about the music business but also about running a business in general—something that would later become invaluable when I started my own.
Beyond my internships, I played trumpet in a local ska-punk band that traveled the state. It gave me something fun to do outside of school, and, more importantly, it led me to the love of my life—my wife, who was the saxophone player in the band. Now, we’re off living happily ever after. 😉
Bonus! Save, Invest, and Avoid Debt Like the Plague
Today, I’m blessed to have a healthy net worth, but I would have been there WAY sooner if I had avoided the traps of debt. We all perceive debt differently, but over the years I’ve grown to avoid it as much as possible. I live within my means, pay cash for cars (and on the business side, I pay cash for all our scooters too!), and invest as much as I can in retirement accounts, brokerage, and real estate. I promise you, if you avoid debt, you will thank me later!
Looking back, these are the things I wish someone had told me when I was a student. College is about so much more than just classes—it’s about experiences, relationships, and personal growth. Take full advantage of every opportunity, and most importantly, enjoy the ride!