How to Get the Most out of Your College Experience

There are many things that add up to a great college experience and they vary from student to student. One of the best parts about any new experience is that you don’t know exactly what will happen, who you will meet, or where it will lead you. Yet even with all the unknown opportunities ahead of you, you can improve your experience by having some structure. Think of it as a day at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. You don’t know which character is going to stroll by or how wet you’re going to get on Splash Mountain, but you’re happy to have a map in your hand so you don’t miss out on any of the attractions.

Here are some activities you'll want to put a big star next to on your college experience map:

• Make a conscious effort to get to know people. Without a doubt, in college you’ll be meeting a lot of new people. You may create friendships that last a lifetime or only for a semester, but it is important to make connections. Join organizations that relate to your major or intended career. Get to know your professors and let them know who you are. Not only will you be a happier, more involved student, but your connections will come in handy when you graduate and are ready to pursue your career as well.

• Vary your courses. Rather than getting all of your requirements out of the way at once, many students have found that mixing them up with electives makes their experience more interesting and less tedious.

• Push your cultural boundaries by taking a foreign language or even studying abroad. Today’s workplace is increasingly becoming more global. Understanding different cultures and languages may just put you above your competition when an employer is reviewing your resume. Many industries today want their employees to have a good understanding of international affairs. Such opportunities will also broaden your view of the world and can have a profound effect on your life.

• Create a study plan. Dedicate study periods (not just minutes here and there) at a time of day and a place that proves to be productive. Studying in groups is an effective way to gain better understanding of course information. If you can work in a group, do so, but you will have to decide which study method works best for you.

• Be a part of the campus community. Be involved in athletics or being a spectator at them. There’s nothing like rooting for the home team to connect you to others and invigorate your spirit. Get around campus and around town. Walk, ride a bike, meet at local hangouts. Attend campus events like concerts or even special lectures.

• Finally, enjoy the brief period that is college while keeping an eye on your end game. Your college experience will result in much more than a career, but your career is the ultimate goal. Starting as a freshman and as you progress through your years of education, remember to network with those who have similar goals and with professors in your major who can help you with letters of recommendation and industry connections. Keep learning about what employers expect and try to be involved in career-linked activities, organizations, part-time jobs, summer jobs, volunteering, or interning. Shadowing someone currently working in the industry is not only great experience, but will help you make decisions about your future.

Your college education is sure to be a magical experience. Don’t lose your map and you’ll get your money’s worth with a better chance to find a way to enjoy all the rides!

Lynn Mattoon, Content Editor & Career Writer for
CollegeJobBank.com, a Beyond.com career community.