Congratulations! You just got into university – that is an amazing milestone (and you should celebrate).
Now, it’s one of two things, you are excited about this Bachelors or Masters degree you are about to start, and it was your choice, or on the other hand, you are not so excited about this degree.
Perhaps you were forced or coerced into it, or you are just plain confused.
Here are some points that I have put together that will help you maximize your time in school beyond your degree.
Your Grades are Important
I know you were hoping I wouldn’t say this, but your grades are very important. They might not be the ‘be all and end all’ of your career, but good grades can be very crucial to helping you land your first job or helping you get your foot in the door.
So, attend classes, be diligent with your assignments and study! Learn about the grading styles of your professors and lecturers, learn from your seniors, ask questions and do well academically.
Your grades are not everything
I know you think I just contradicted myself, but grades are not everything. Your abilities to apply knowledge and add value to everything you do are far more important than the numbers that make up your grade point average.
As much as it is good to well in school, you need to gain skills that will help you stand out from the crowd and can give you an edge even above people with higher grades. The best ways to do this are to gain practical experience; you can do this by volunteering for causes, events, leadership roles, etc.
Opportunities Abound
Be alert: University is the land of opportunities – whether they are opportunities to learn, get scholarships, earn, fellowships and so on.
Ensure that you have your ears to the ground and are aware of the opportunities around campus that you are eligible for. Apply for as many as you can – it never hurts to try.
Joining associations are very helpful for this, most student associations receive firsthand information about campus opportunities and share them with their members.
Pursue your Passions:
I mean this with all sincerity, pursue your passions. If you have a flair for fashion, beauty, technology, writing, art, media. University is an amazing launchpad.
As a student, people are more likely to be helpful and to want to mentor you. Organizations usually run campus ambassadorship programs or have student groups, as much as is in your power, join these groups.
Network
I know it is cliché, but you have probably heard the saying – your network is your net worth. I hate to be the one to break it to you, but it is very true. In school, you will meet tons of people both on and off campus that can shape the course of your life, personally and professionally.
Try to attend events beyond class, join clubs, associations and societies, volunteer and put in your best so that you can stand out.
Your friends, classmates, lecturers might be the greatest source of opportunities for you while in school and even beyond.
Have fun, but stay out of trouble
Don’t forget to have fun, whatever fun means to you that is legal and safe. But as much as is in your power, STAY OUT OF TROUBLE. Know about the rules/laws that apply in your school and your location and act accordingly.
University is a great place that can serve as a launchpad to the fulfillment of your dreams. So make friends, study, put yourself out there, and do great things! I’m rooting for you.
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