For all of you seniors searching for the right college/university to attend, this message pertains to you. I have been there and felt the pressure of choosing your dream school.
I know that the stress can be overwhelming and feel like a never-ending emotion, but I promise you that once you've made your choice, it's solely up to you to make the most of your college experience. Although this advice may seem never-ending, I can promise you that these four tips will be essential reminders on how to make the most of your time at school.
1. Go out of your comfort zone
It can be difficult to have the confidence to do things out of the ordinary; however, it is important to remember that when you try something out of your comfort zone, it can be extremely beneficial. Some examples of going out of your comfort zone would be getting to know others who aren't necessarily just like you, go to an event that you wouldn't have attended in high school, and be involved in things you wouldn't have tried before. This will help you to grow as a person and create relationships that you might not have developed before.
2. Join campus clubs/organizations
Clubs and organizations are beneficial ways to increase your involvement on campus. Joining a collegiate club/organization will assist you with making friends and even faculty that work at your university. It is recommended that students join an academic and recreational club during their time at school. Being a member of a club pertaining to your major will help you build relationships with other students who obtain similar coursework as yourself. A recreational organization is simply for your enjoyment and can be utilized as a way to relieve stress.
3. Attend athletic/musical events
Displaying your school spirit can make your collegiate experience feel similar to high school; except this time, you are able to share those fantastic events with your lifelong friends. You will also come to realize that no matter the outcome of the athletic/musical event, you will still love your school just as much. As you grow older, you will take such pride in your college/university that you will support your school in any event or activity. Therefore, remember to maintain school spirit and support your school.
4. Strive to lead others
Without joining those clubs/organizations, you will not be able to obtain leadership roles. Maintaining an office in a collegiate club/organization will assist you in all of your career aspirations as well as networking with other young professionals similar to you. It will help you immensely to practice leading others now so that in the future, your employers will consider you much more competent.