Education is such a critical component to modern-day success. While in the past, simply having a degree was enough to help you stand out, now you need to go above and beyond. Education alone isn’t enough, which is why you need to be very critical about the extracurricular activities available to you, and how you can get even more value out of your education. If you don’t feel like your current program offers you enough to kickstart your career, don’t worry, since you have ways to boost your efforts and get even more out of your program:
It’s time to do a deep dive into your university. You need to know the societies and clubs that are available and beneficial to your career. You need to know what competitions are being hosted by your college. You also need to know what connections and opportunities are available through your careers service. If you aren’t thrilled with those options, and aren’t pleased with your education, then you need to make a drastic change and switch universities. To do this, first go to campusreel.org to understand the transfer requirements and deadlines, and then start putting together your applications. Aim to get them in at least a week before the deadline, so there aren’t any issues and your application can be processed as quickly as possible.
If it isn’t the resources and overall environment that’s lacking, then you may want to change majors instead. Making the best choice for yourself when you’re a teenager is incredibly difficult, so don’t feel bad that the program you initially chose for yourself doesn’t end up being the perfect fit. You may also learn more about the major and minor offerings at your university, and may think that sounds so much better than what you’re currently doing. Switching majors may be seamless, or you may need to add a few extra credits to your roster, but it’s always worthwhile if you’re dissatisfied currently.
Societies are a great way to learn on the job, while having fun and making new friends. If you want to get into radio production, for example, working on the campus’ radio is a great way to get the practical experience that you need. Don’t just focus on what’s directly related to your future career goals, either. You can learn a lot by trying out new things, and the best part is you’ll have something to show for your efforts when it comes to gettinginternships and, later, a job.
There are many competitions you can enter. These competitions can be directly hosted by the university or in partnership with your university, they can also be entirely independent. Even if you don’t win, competing is a great learning opportunity and how you can push yourself and your skillset into something that employers want.
You’ll learn a lot by interning, volunteering, and working. Doing this during your university experience is essential, since you have your maintenance fees covered already so you can push yourself through unpaid internships or volunteering opportunities without struggling to make ends meet. Interning, in fact, is only really acceptable during your education for this reason. You’ll also have the help and support of your careers service, so make sure to get in touch with them.
