As a Harvard dropout, Bill Gates wasn't exactly a model student.

But as the second-richest person on Earth — and someone who is heavily involved in efforts to alleviate poverty and health burdens for billions of people —  he does know a thing or two about finding success.

Here are some of Gates' best nuggets of wisdom for those on the verge of entering the real world:

  • Artificial intelligence, energy, and biosciences make good majors
  • Surround yourself with people who challenge you
  • Trust that the world is getting better and can be improved further
  • Optimism can take you far
  • Have convictions, but always stay curious
  • Take time to think about the world's inequities

Read the full article by Chris Weller about professional advice from Business Insider