8 Ways to Get the Most Out of College Terri Lomax July 11, 2012 1 Comment You’ve heard these two words your entire senior year of high school and they’ll certainly follow you throughout your college career. In order to get the most out of college, get involved! From guidance counselors, professors, to parents, they’ll all be encouraging you to get involved. So, how exactly do you get involved? Why, I’m so glad you asked! Read on… 8 Ways to Get the Most Out of College 1. Become an RA I often hear that being a Resident Assistant (RA) isn’t for everyone, however, I beg to differ. If you live on-campus apply to be an RA. An RA (the title differs depending on the institution) is a trained peer leader who supervises those living in a residence hall or a group housing assignment. Along with being a great resume booster, being an RA can enhance your leadership skills, facilitate networking, help you meet new friends and ultimately, it can open doors for post-graduate employment. Last but not least, most RA positions come with a decent benefits package of either a stipend or free or discounted housing while employed. Visit your institutions housing department for more information. 2. Get a job Whether you decide to job search on-campus or seek out local employment, you definitely want to work on building your résumé while in undergrad. Though grades are important, your future employers value well-rounded individuals. Holding a part-time (or full-time) job as you pursue a degree let’s employers know that you’re able to multitask, balance, and most importantly WORK. Check out local businesses, visit your institutions career center, or ask around for job openings. 3. Network American author and businessman Keith Ferazzi said that networking is important because “everything that you want to achieve in life is going to be with and through other people.” College is a great time to build powerful connections that can last a life time. Link up with liked-minded people (classmates, suite mates, professionals, etc…) and remember to keep in touch. You never know when someone in your network might be able to help you out or vice versa. 4. Utilize the Career Center I repeat, utilize the Career Center! Almost every institution that I know of has a FREE career center that offers an abundance of valuable resources to prepare students for the professional realm. Visit your institutions career center and ask about the services that they offer, and then, USE them. Get your résumé reviewed, take part in mock interviews, apply for jobs, make an appointment for career counseling, and get your money’s worth. After all, you are paying for these services anyway. 5. Join a club Clubs are a great resource to make new friends, boost your resume, and get involved while in college. Join a club that interests you. Can’t find one? No excuse, partner up with some of your friends, find an advisor, and create one. Visit your student activities office or search on your institutions webpage for more information about the clubs that they offer and the steps needed to join or create a club. 6. Find a mentor A mentor is (preferably) a good role model who has accomplished at least one goal that you would like to accomplish in the future. If you’re a freshman, either an upperclassman who doesn’t mind “showing you the ropes” or a university professional who can advise and hold you accountable may be a good place to start for a mentor relationship. Visit your student activities office or your career center to ask about programs that offer mentors. 7. Find an internship An internship is a work related experience that allows you to explore or gain relevant knowledge in your related field. It gives you a chance to learn about the company and the field before dedicating your career to that position. If you’re an exceptional intern you could be hired full-time by your internship, and of course, internships look amazing on resumes! Just be sure to apply for an internship that relates to your field of study. 8. Have fun Remember this quote “Work hard, play hard.” Be sure to have fun in college but balance it with discipline, focus and organization. As long as you stay on top of your studies you can party like a rock star! You’re going to college for a reason, and keep that in mind when making decisions. Can you think of other ways to maximize your undergraduate experience? I’d love to hear your answers!
