Fall is here and the leaves aren’t the only thing turning. With midterms fast approaching, there’s still time to start out your semester with a bang and turn over a new leaf. So whether you are a freshman looking to make new friends, or a senior trying to give your resume that extra boost, check out a few tips for making the most out of your college experience.
1. The Tortoise and the Hare Theory
We all remember the story about the tortoise and the hare right? Slow and steady wins the race? Apply this to your life. Try to avoid making more commitments than you can handle. You have to remember that there is only one of you and if you take on too much at once, you will most likely burn out…and fast. Make your obligations part of your everyday routine, this way your extracurriculars won’t feel as if they are taking over your life.
2. Can I borrow a cup of sugar?
While making friends can sometimes be intimidating, put yourself out there. Introduce yourself to your neighbors or, if you live in a dorm, try organizing a fun activity to do with your hall mates… Waffle Cone Wednesday perhaps? You may just be surprised who you meet. All it takes is one friend and before you know it, you may just become friends with their friends. The ripple-effect is contagious, so take advantage of it.
3. Life after college.
Use some of your time in between classes and homework to do something that will impress employers. Ask your professors if they know of any good ways to get involved with organizations and committees on campus (or in Boone) that pertain to your major. Not only will it give you hands on experience in a field that interests you, but it will help give you that competitive advantage lacking amongst college students… and who knows, you may just make some new friends in the process.
4. #1 Problem amongst collegiettes…
One trend that’s not in season this year… procrastinating. Although it can be easy to put off your assignments, don’t. If you have time in between classes, try heading to the library and getting a jump-start on next week’s accounting assignment. This way, when you hear of an awesome party next Tuesday, you won’t be stuck inside hitting the books while the rest of your friends are raging hard.
5. Radiate positivity.
Surround your-self with positive people. If a friend’s negative energy is constantly bringing you down, handle it in one of two ways: 1) confront them… tell Sarah that her constant complaining and bickering with her boyfriend is a total buzz kill and she needs to tone it down. Or 2) get new friends. A big part of your success as a college student depends on your health. If the drama of friends is interfering with that massive research paper you have hanging over your shoulders, cut it out of your life.
6. Network.
Ever heard someone say “It’s all about who you know.”? It’s never too early to start networking. Visit your professors during their office hours and start building relationships with them now. Not only could it help your grades, but when they hear of an opportunity like a killer summer internship, they’re more likely to think of you for the job.