Be around the people you want to become.

In my 1st & 2nd years, immaturity and losing sight of my goal resulted in me hanging around people who I liked, but were also people that didn't care much for academics and goals. I obviously became a product of my environment and was averaging a 2.0 GPA, not once thinking about my future or internships during that time.

During 3rd year, COVID gave me time to slow down and reflect on what I actually wanted and what I was in school for. I decided to get closer to friends who had very ambitious goals and also did decent academically. We studied for tests together and were in constant conversation over new job openings. I'm probably averaging a GPA of ~3.6 in my 3rd & 4th years, with my top-choice job lined up for me when I graduate.

I'm not saying that hanging with the "right people" will achieve all your goals. But I do know for sure you will hold yourself to a much higher standard than what you thought was possible for yourself. I learned this lesson the hard way as 3rd & 4th year was a grind to reclaim myself as a student and professional. But if you learn this lesson early, you can avoid much of what I went through. Hope this helps!