Top Five Tips to Make the Most of your university experience

Going to university anytime soon? You're certainly embarking on one of life's most fulfilling adventures. Two quotes can be your go-to for this new chapter. Steve Jobs famously said, your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. At the same time, there's a quote by Henri Nouwen that says the university has become a place that prepares you for the fights in the world. 

The university is your stepping stone to a world of not just professional opportunities but also higher learning, maturity, and new responsibilities. Seize this opportunity with both hands, make the most of your time at university, and build a solid foundation for the future.

Agreed, the university can often seem like a daunting experience, particularly if you're venturing out of your comfort zone. But again, wasn't that supposed to be the whole point? Going to university is starting afresh in a new learning spectrum, with huge opportunities, experiences, and fun waiting ahead. Here are five tips that will help you maximize your experience at university. 

Learn as proactively as you can

Are we stating the obvious? You'll be surprised to know how many students often miss out on proactive learning experiences at university while tackling hectic schedules, sleep deprivation, deadlines, and more. You'll get a chance to test multiple educational programs during university and should thus adopt a proactive role in exploring different passions, interacting with experts, attending tutorials and classes regularly, and asking questions. 

You shouldn't limit yourself only to the classroom. Enroll in additional learning activities and group work, participate in academic projects and initiatives, consider assisting professors with various tasks if possible, and even take additional courses that you're passionate about, even if they're online and not within the university itself. 

Engagement matters immensely 

University is not only about books and reference materials. University life offers several opportunities for engagement and involvement beyond the classroom. These are the only few years that will give you the scope to freely participate in several hobbies, connect and network with others from diverse backgrounds, try new things, and widen your horizons. Many students often miss out on the innumerable opportunities for on-campus involvement. The best place to start is the students' union or council. 

Engage and get involved during your university years instead of staying cooped up in the classroom. Try and get into your university society or club for the same. 

Go abroad for university

Another aspect that cannot be emphasized enough is the need for global skills, exposure, and learning in today's fast-evolving world. You should try and go abroad for the university as it will help you get access to global internships and exchange programs, learn new languages, widen your networks, and make your resume highly attractive with a degree from a globally reputed institution. 

Studies indicate how 100% improvements were noted in GPAs for students while studying abroad. Student GPAs usually increase once they near the completion of undergraduate degrees. Students saw their GPAs rising twice as fast due to going abroad in comparison to those staying in their hometowns or cities. Those studying abroad have 19% higher chances of graduating, while 97% of students attribute their higher maturity to studying abroad. 96% of alumni also mentioned higher self-confidence, while higher tolerance levels for ambiguity were reported by 89% of alumni. Studies also indicated how those studying abroad improved majorly in five key areas, i.e., conscientiousness, openness, extraversion, emotional stability, and agreeableness. 

Care for your body and mind 

Amidst the hustle of university life, do not forget to care for your body and mind alike. You should exercise, sleep well, and eat as healthy as you can. You can't really ace university life and take part in multiple activities if you're tired, sick, or lethargic. Mental health is immensely important, especially when you have to deal with peer pressure and competitive academic and social environments. Build your social network or support system, stay healthy, get sleep, and consult your teachers and peers for guidance. Boost mental health by staying connected to your friends and family members on a regular basis and participating in sports and other activities that help you keep toxins at bay. 

Take help whenever you need it

Feeling shy about asking for help from your peers, teachers, guidance counselors, students' union representatives, or others? Do not hesitate to ask for help whenever you need the same. This can be really helpful if you're unsure about something, need more information, require invaluable guidance, or want more resources for various purposes. 

You should visit the Student Success Centre or Students' Union/Council for more help in this regard. You can also make an appointment with your academic guidance counselor, professor, or student representative. You can also contact student health services for assistance if you need the same. Check out the alumni association and placement/career cells for help with job opportunities, training, and applications. 

Bonus Tip: 

Visit professors after classes 

Pay visits to your professors after attending classes and within office hours. Ensure that they know your name and face, which will help if you need letters of recommendation in the future for scholarships, internships, and so on. Engage with professors and take their guidance on specific aspects. 

Conclusion 

As you can well understand, going to university opens up new avenues for learning, relationship-building, networking, cultural exposure, and a lot more. Make sure that you maximize your time at university, building your resume, actively engaging in learning and other activities, being part of groups, making new friends, and possibly learning a new language, too, if you can help it! Here's to a wonderful university life ahead!