College: More Than a Degree

Network

The ostensible goal of college is to obtain a degree such as a Bachelor of Science, Arts or one of any number of specialty degrees. However that should not be all you take away after two or four years at college. There are a multitude of experiences and less tangible benefits to the college experience than just a diploma. One of these is the networking you can only engage in on a college campus. The connections you make during your college career will last the rest of your life, and you will never know just how useful they can be. Make an effort to meet and acquaint yourself with as many of your classmates as possible apart from lasting friendships, you never know just who may be able to get you a job or help you in some other way years in the future.

Attend Functions

Dovetailing with your goal of networking should be to get out of your dorm room for more than just class. Go to sporting events, concerts, lectures and as many events as you can. Colleges host a number of interesting events that you typically won't have access too at any other time. And generally for students the cost is minimal, if anything. Also, get a job. Get at least one job, even if you don't need the money. One of the toughest things when you are looking for a job post-graduation is showing you did more than just show up to class. An on-campus job is a great way to buff up your resume. Work at the library or as a research assistant for a professor you like. It doesn't really matter what it is as long as it is mildly interesting and looks good on your resume. The pay probably won't be terrific but at college that's usually not the point. Show up, do what you need to do and know it'll pay off in more than just dollars and cents down the road.

Go to class

With that said, above all else, make sure you go to class. One good way to motivate yourself to attend as often as possible is to do some long division. Work out how much a single class costs based on a semester's worth of tuition. At most places that works out to several hundred dollars per class. Nothing like knowing you're literally throwing away that kind of cash with every late morning to get you to pull on some pants and head out the door. Don't just go to class to be a warm body in a seat either. You will get out what you put in, and if you participate and really commit to absorbing and not just existing, you will realize just how valuable college can be. So while you are in it for the diploma, don't forget how much more the college experience can offer, and remember how much you benefit is a direct result of how much you commit to getting that benefit. Take note of every opportunity available to you.