Many have the perspective that college means survival. Attending class, finishing homework and paying the bills is about all you can handle. In a sea of students, most are experiencing the same struggles and you can easily fade into the crowd.
In reality, college is a time of unique opportunities and resources. Yet some students don't realize what's at their disposal. Transitioning from a high school to a university campus is a shock and this change of venue contributes to the feeling of invisibility.
To build a beneficial foundation and optimize this experience, remember that standing apart from the rest is crucial.
Making yourself noticeable may seem risky but it's in your best interest for your future. As you gain recognition from your professors and peers, you're establishing a positive reputation, showing your potential and growing in your field of study.
Your first point of contact, your professor, is a key player in your career efforts.
When you've made a connection, they'll be more likely to write convincing recommendation letters for you and give you input on how to excel in your profession.
Your peers are also vital, as they'll be your colleagues or at least part of your network after you graduate. Strong connections with other competent people can open up doors later on and help you reach your goals. When you graduate, interviews for internships and positions will put you in the spotlight.
The workplace will inevitably place pressure on you to perform well and confidently interact with others but according to McGraw-Hill Education's Future Workforce Survey, just four in 10 American college students feel sufficiently prepared for their chosen careers.
To take your career seriously now and correctly position yourself, you can engage in the classroom and increase your chances at advancement.
Check out the following four ways to stand out from the crowd in your classes or as you start your first job.
1. Get some one-on-one time in office hours
Especially in massive lecture classes, your professor won't be able to identify you from the other 200 faces. You could go the entire semester without saying hello and they wouldn't know the difference. But even the largest classes offer an opportunity for face-to-face time — office hours.
A significant portion of college students don't stop by their professor's office during the posted hours but to stand out, you can take the time to introduce yourself to them and carry on a conversation.
Many university professors, including those at Harvard, find office hours useful in gauging the understanding of the class and getting to know students. Before you leave college to enter the real world, you should know the value of personal connections and people skills.2. Participate in class discussions
During classes, you may find it intimidating to speak up with so many eyes on you. But answering or posing questions to engage in the topic shows your interest and curiosity. Once you chime into a discussion, you'll start to cultivate your communication skills and hold the attention of the room.
Asserting yourself as a leader is a reliable way to set yourself apart. Your presence in a big classroom or organization can substantially influence people. Present deliberate and persuasive qualities in large groups to develop an authoritative air.
Practice exerting confidence and steering class discussions and it will be difficult for others to ignore you. Try to contribute thoughtful observations rather than simply throwing out comments but push past the fear of being wrong or making a mistake.3. Sit in the front of the room
Who you're friends with somewhat depends on who you encounter on a regular basis. It's easy to form relationships with people you run into often.
This idea — what some refer to as the proximity principle — means that location can help you draw attention if you use the right strategy. In class or at a new job, place yourself in your professor or boss' line of sight. Taking a front and center seat increases the possibility that you'll make a worthwhile connection.
Also, a front-row seat can benefit your education, as it eliminates distractions and allows you to listen attentively. According to a study on physics students, the students' grades were connected to their distance from the front of the room, showing a link between seat location and learning. Pick a prime seat to boost your knowledge and create a familiar, professional relationship with your professor.
4. Practice engaged and attentive body language
As you attend class, exhibit dedication and alert behavior. Keep detailed notes as you listen to the professor but attempt as much eye contact as possible too. Professors pick up on which students are listening and expending effort.
Displaying responsibility and concentration while your classmates scroll through social media timelines can impress your professor. Respect your instructor's time by tuning into class and you can reap the rewards of your investment.
You can create your own review material during class with valuable note-taking techniques. With a better handle on the information, you can improve your performance and demonstrate that you care about learning.
Set yourself apart.
Standing out means you're not forgettable or easy to overlook, which can enrich your career after you graduate. Start bolstering your foundation so that you can succeed in your field with the right connections.
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