Be extraordinary. Everyone's college experience is a little different, but most college students have the same goal: a degree of some sort. While attending either a community college or university, every college student hopes to succeed. Many do, and many don't. I can't tell you what will make you personally succeed, but here are some tips on what every college student should be doing. Trying these 11 suggestions will help you towards your goal, and help make your college experience exceptional.
Scheduling
At the being of every semester, take all of those syllabi that usually get thrown away, shoved in the bottom of your bag, or otherwise forgotten about, and use them to create a game plan. I use the calendar app that comes pre-installed on all Apple devices. The app is simple to use and the calendar syncs between all my devices. No matter where I am as long as I have my phone, laptop, or iPad I have access to my calendar. Take the dates listed on your syllabus and put them into your calendar. You can use any calendar app or a planner with colorful pens. Just make sure you pick something and stick to it!
Finding a Job
While you're in college, getting a job is crucial. It doesn’t have to be a career, but you need to get your foot in the door somewhere. Check out my article here for more details on why this is crucial.
Taking Care of Themselves
It is very easy to get out of shape both physically, and mentally in college. Physically, most students are now on their own for the first time to figure out all of their meals, exercise routines, and sleep schedules. If you don’t eat correctly, don’t sleep well and fail to get basic exercise, it can certainly take a toll on your overall health. Mentally, college brings on a great deal of change. At times, especially like these, the changes can feel unmanageable. It doesn’t matter your age or history, sometimes these changes can be accompanied by overwhelming emotions that appear to come out of nowhere. When these changes feel unmanageable it is incredibly important to remember that your mental health is just as important as your physical health! Getting a little help is easy, and never anything to be ashamed of! Most college campuses employ a counselor that is there for students to talk to multiple times a week if they are not on campus full time.
Studying
Many people have the ability to get through high school without having to study. This is not true for most in college. Most people must study in order to succeed in college. Make a study plan through trial and error. Try different techniques and find what works for you.
Taking Advantage of Student Discounts
You’ll only be a student for so long, and I don’t have to tell you how expensive being a student really is, so be sure to flash that student ID everywhere. The worst that can happen is the business won’t offer a discount, but you won’t know if you don’t ask!
Networking
This goes along with finding a job, but is a little different. Every student should be sure to get to know other students, and make friends with new people. Sometimes it can really help knowing someone when you start looking for a job in your career field. Also, you might be able to help someone else out.
Sprucing up that Resume
When you work somewhere, gain volunteer hours, or otherwise accomplish something worth putting on your resume, go ahead and write it down somewhere. When it comes time to submit your resume somewhere you may not remember to add it on there. It will be far easier to remove it then to try and think of it later on.
Spending Time Outdoors
Fresh air is great for anyone and everyone. Be sure to spend as much time in it as you can. It will make you feel better all around. When the weather is nice, take a walk, ride your bike, catch some Pokemon, or just hang out. Just be sure you don't spend all your time in classrooms, and dorm rooms. Get outside and be active!
Trying Something New
College is a great time to pursue your passion, but it is also a great time to try something you haven't before. There are usually tons of events going on at any college campus. So grab some friends and find something new to attempt. Even if it is a bust you will still have a great memory to look back on and you can't say you didn't try!
Applying for Scholarships
People generally forget this step once they are already in college. When you are in high school I bet you applied for every scholarship you could. You should do the same while in college. It is expensive to get your degree and lots of universities offer scholarships for current students or transfers. Don't give up on the scholarship hunt just because you are already in college. If you are anything like I am, you never turn down free money!
Learning Something
Wait. Isn't learning something the whole idea behind this college thing? Why yes, yes it is. However, many students find themselves distracted from their education, especially their freshman year. If you are in college, make sure you are learning something. If you feel as though you aren't, be sure to talk to your advisers and professors. There is a high chance they will be happy to find a challenge for you!
