During high school we yearn for the day to come when we can proudly say we've successfully made it to college. We think about the friends we're going to make, the parties we're going to attend and just the overall experience that's definitely going to be something to remember. Whether you're at a two-year or a four-year institution, your experience there should be something you would be able to look back on and be completely grateful for. So, with that being said, I've listed a few ways you can maximize your entire collegiate experience.

1. Have an open mind

Definitely. College is a place where you meet people from all across the globe. These people share varying cultures, beliefs and practices. Some may not look like you, nor talk like you nor eat the food you eat, but despite it all they should be seen as one with you. This is your opportunity to learn more about what's not familiar with you and maybe even build strong bonds over differences. I know many parents wouldn't be pleased to know, but going to college means that you'll inevitably become exposed to things your parents tried to shield you from, and you know what? That's okay. Once you know the way you were raised, and you accept your teachings as truth, there's nothing that can ever influence you but your own desire to change.

2. Explore clubs and organizations

Find one or two clubs that work well with you. They shouldn't serve as only something to put on your resume, but rather as an opportunity to build familial bonds with others who share similar interests. Sometimes the relationships we foster within our clubs and organizations are relationships that last a lifetime. Isn’t that great?

Additionally, becoming involved in your school gives you opportunities to learn more about the institution and sometimes you get the chance to do things the average student wouldn’t be able to.

3. Professors and advisers are your best friends

While I don’t mean literally best friends, they are people with whom you should try to get as comfortable as you possibly can (academically speaking lol). By showing them that you care about your education they’ll in turn make extra efforts for you. They’re basically your guide to successfully completing college with great recommendations. Get to know them through office hours and allow them to guide you. They are the ones who will show you paths you’ve never even considered, so it doesn’t hurt to go the extra mile. Who knows, you may even want an extension on a paper, so get to it!

4. Try out different subjects

There's alway going to be that one corse that you find interesting but has nothing to do with your major. I say, you register for it. Life's short and knowledge is empowering, so out of your best interest, take it. Who knows, taking that one course could make your realize that you're pursuing a degree you don't want to, or make you want to go back for a second degree. It's really gratifying to know that you have knowledge about different things.

Whether you're in college or about to begin, this is your opportunity to explore the world around you and yourself as much as you possibly can. There's so much to know and so many memories to make. This is your time to be selfish about who you want to be and the life you want to live, so you can eventually pass on what you've learnt to others.

Xoxo,

Brit