What comes to mind when you read this week’s title: Build Your Board – the Ice Cream Way?
For me, it’s those TikTok “bring your own board” parties—where friends each show up with a themed board. Pizza board, soft pretzel board or dessert board, each one reflecting something unique about the person who brought it.
Now imagine hosting that same kind of party, but from a career development perspective. Your “board” isn’t food, it’s made up of the people in your immediate career circle. Some call this your personal advisory board, a small group who are here to support, challenge and guide you as you grow, both personally and professionally.
So today, I’m serving up my take on the Ice Cream Board – a trendy, intentional, joy-filled collection of variety, texture and flavor. Just like the people who belong on your board.
The Board = You
Every sundae board starts with a few scoops of ice cream—your preferences, your goals and your values. This isn’t a copy-paste situation. Your board should reflect what you need in this season of your life. Maybe you’re choosing a major or you’re navigating rejection. Maybe you’re applying to grad school or your first job. Wherever you are, you’re the center of this experience, and that’s exactly where you should be.
Ask yourself:
- What am I trying to figure out right now?
- Where do I need support or perspective?
- Who already shows up for me in meaningful ways?
In these next sections, I’ll detail more about the specific types of people you are likely to include in your board. When I was recently chatting with my friends, we were very specific in saying the people on our boards in college are not the people we call upon today. Prioritize who you are today.
🍫 The Chocolate Drizzle = The Challenger
You know the drizzle that cuts through all the sweetness? That’s this person. They ask you the tough questions. They remind you that you can do hard things. They don’t always give the easiest advice, but it’s often the most helpful.
Board Recommendations: that professor who doesn’t let you cut corners, a mentor who gives real feedback or a friend who knows when to push you.
🍓 The Fresh Fruit = The Cheerleader
This is your hype squad. Their messages lift your spirits. Their presence makes things feel lighter. They remind you what you’re capable of, especially on days when you forget.
Board Recommendations: your roommate, a coach, an older sibling or a friend who sends you a “you got this” text before a big moment.
🍪 The Cookie Crumble = The Connector
Let me reference How I Met Your Mother. The Connector is Barney Stinson introducing everyone by the phrase, “Have you met …?” and then walking away. They open doors, share opportunities and help you navigate next steps.
Board Recommendations: your career advisor, a student org leader, a supervisor or an alum you met at a panel who offered to chat more.
*If you haven’t met a Connector yet, you may find one on the Merrimack Professional Network (MPN).
🥜 The Crunchy Topping = The Specialist
I want to start by saying you may NOT know this person yet. It might be someone you have heard about socially or maybe have met at an event. But they might not be someone you’re on a first-name basis with. Specialists are the experts—someone with experience in a field you’re exploring or deep knowledge in a skill you’re working on. They help you understand the landscape, from real-world job descriptions to day-in-the-life breakdowns.
Board Recommendations: a professor in your major, an internship supervisor or even a guest speaker from a campus event.
🍒 The Cherry on Top = The Trusted Listener
Not every board member gives advice. Some help you process the advice you’ve heard from others. This person is a sounding board, the one who helps you connect the dots and trust your gut.
Board Recommendations: a mentor, an older cousin, a former teacher or someone who really gets you.
🍴How to “Serve” the Board
Now that your board is assembled, what do you actually do with it? Be honest about where you’re at and what you’re thinking about especially those board members you know personally. Ask each board member about their own path—what worked, what didn’t. These might be people you’ve known a long time but might not have explored their professional background. Next, share your goals and get their insight while seeking feedback. Be sure to listen with curiosity, not defensiveness.
With all of that in mind, not every person in your life earns a seat on your board. If someone drains your energy, constantly makes you doubt yourself or doesn’t respect your growth—they don’t belong on the plate. Boundaries are part of balance.
You might need more encouragement one semester and more challenges the next. That’s normal. Your board can change and grow with you. Just like your favorite ice cream order might look different each season, so will the people who support your journey.
Final Scoop
You don’t have to navigate your college and career path alone—and you shouldn’t. Choose your board with care, talk to them often and let yourself be guided and grounded.
And if you’re not sure who belongs on your board just yet? That’s okay. You’ve already got one person rooting for you: me. And the rest of the career team is just a conversation away.
Let’s build your board together. 🍨
