During high school, as much as we like to think the endless studying, extracurricular activities, and the countless projects helped shape how we would be prepared for college, we were sadly mistaken. Sure, all the studying and assignments came full throttle when entering college, but we were prepared for the professors to be on our asses, for them to encourage us to keep going and to follow all our deadlines- or else.
What happened when we got into college? You realize the professors put the responsibility in your hands, they don't have the time to keep track of thousands of students per year, they just don't need to care as much as high school teachers. They expect you to know your abilities and to work the way you're comfortable in order to get the work done. That is a great mindset, but unfortunately, it is hard to adjust to that setting.
Some of us never got on that train, we just did the bare minimum and expected to slide through college, while others took the experiences college gave us and worked hard to structure their future. Here are 5 things I wish I took more seriously in college:
1. Know your deadlines.
You get the syllabus the first week of classes, listed on there are 3 major projects that will be due within the last weeks of classes. Perfect, you can get started and proceed each week chiseling away at the project all semester long. Did this happen? No, sadly it did not. It would make your life a hell of a lot easier but alas in the midst of finals week, the 3 projects get done in that week span.
2. Network like crazy.
This was made to be something you should be doing, especially when declaring your major. You are supposed to put yourself out there and get a feel for the real world you are about to be stepping into. Unfortunately, the awkwardness and not enough time between school and work can cause a lack of networking.
3. Get your internship credits in.
Not only would this get your feet wet in careers you could potentially be in after graduation, but it could lead you to possibilities within careers. Completing an internship goes hand in hand with networking, it is important to display your knowledge and show others your ability is and get acquainted with the field of interest before you step into a real position. Not to mention that an internship(s) will look great on your resume!
4. Have a good attendance record.
Attendance and adherence get you prepared for the real world, the professors may wait on you... but your bosses won't. Even though you are able to skip as many classes as you want just 'cause you aced the last midterm, but the professors WILL NOTICE how often you are not there. Apart from your professors noticing your attendance, they may be less apt to help you out along the way or offer guidance for you. They'll give you the quick you're SOL, and send you on your way. Exactly what a boss will do, too.
5. Use your free time to your advantage.
Although this does not quite happen too often in college, especially if you work while attending school, it is something to take advantage of. It is important to use your free time wisely, whether it is attending extracurricular activities or expanding your social group and enjoying some stress-free time. Extracurricular activities could help by getting you involved with people who have the same interests and goals as you which could lead to more networking. When expanding your friend group it may also help to have people around who have the same ambitions because they'll always be around to lend a hand or help along the way of the semester. If you take your free time to spend with your friends and make memories of letting go of college stress for a night and enjoying yourself, that is not so bad either. Sometimes a little free time is good to keep your mind right.
If you are in college or working your way through school right now, take into account my advice before starting your eighth episode of your favorite season on Netflix.
