Hey there, fellow students or undergraduates! University life is certainly an incredible journey filled with opportunities to learn, grow, and have a blast. While hitting the books is crucial, there's so much more to explore during these 3 or 4 formative years of yours. I wish I could do more during my university years. Too bad for me but not for you! You still have got time! Now let's talk about the ten fantastic things you should consider doing while you're still on campus, complete with in-depth details, vivid explanations, and practical examples to inspire you. I don't want you to miss out!
10 Things You Should Do While Studying in a University
1. Travel with Your Squad
Nothing beats the thrill of exploring new places with your best pals. University is the perfect time to plan that epic road trip or backpacking adventure you've always dreamed about. Imagine cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway with your buddies, the wind in your hair and the sun setting over the ocean. Or picture yourself wandering through the ancient streets of Rome, gelato in hand, marveling at the Colosseum with your best friends by your side. If you are on a budget, exploring the places near your university will be a great choice as well!
Why it's awesome:
- Creates lifelong memories: Years from now, you'll look back on these trips and smile.
- Broadens your perspective: Experiencing different cultures firsthand is eye-opening.
- Strengthens friendships: Shared adventures create unbreakable bonds.
- Develops problem-solving skills: Navigating foreign places together builds resilience.
Pro tip:
Look for student discounts on travel packages and accommodations. Websites like StudentUniverse offer great deals for college students. Also, consider using apps like Hostelworld for budget-friendly stays or Couchsurfing for a more immersive local experience.
2. Volunteer for a Cause You Care About
Giving back to your community not only feels great but also looks impressive on your resume. Find a cause that resonates with you and dedicate some time to making a difference. Whether it's environmental conservation, animal welfare, or social justice, there's bound to be an organization that aligns with your values.
Benefits:
- Develops empathy and social awareness
- Builds valuable skills like teamwork and leadership
- Expands your network beyond your usual social circles (This is really important!)
- Provides a sense of purpose and fulfillment
Where to start:
Check out VolunteerMatch to find opportunities in your area. You can filter by cause, location, and time commitment to find the perfect fit. Of course, you can also easily search on Google by asking, "NGO to volunteer".
3. Learn a New Language
In our increasingly globalized world, being multilingual is a huge asset. Plus, it's a fantastic way to challenge your brain and potentially make new friends from different cultures. Imagine being able to chat with locals on your next trip abroad or impressing a potential employer with your language skills. I had "attempted" learning Japanese in my university and it was difficult but fun.
Language learning perks:
- Enhances cognitive function and memory
- Opens up job opportunities in international companies
- Enriches travel experiences by allowing deeper cultural immersion
- Improves your native language skills through comparative learning
Resource:
Try Duolingo for a fun, gamified approach to language learning. I have tried it and it worked as advertised for me. For more immersive practice, consider language exchange apps like Tandem or HelloTalk, where you can chat with native speakers.
4. Start a Side Hustle
Who says you can't be an entrepreneur while still in university? Launching a small business or freelance gig can teach you valuable skills and potentially earn you some extra cash. It's also a great way to apply what you're learning in class to real-world scenarios. I wish I had done this when I was still an undergraduate.
Ideas to consider:
- Tutoring in subjects you excel at
- Social media management for local businesses
- Graphic design or web development freelancing
- Creating and selling handmade products on Etsy
- Starting a niche blog or YouTube channel
Tip:
Platforms like Fiverr can help you get started with freelancing. For e-commerce ventures, consider Shopify or Etsy.
5. Attend Campus Events and Guest Lectures
Your university likely hosts a variety of events and brings in fascinating speakers. Take advantage of these opportunities to broaden your horizons and network. From TEDx talks to industry panel discussions, these events can provide valuable insights and inspiration.
Why it's worth it:
- Exposure to diverse ideas and perspectives
- Networking opportunities with speakers and like-minded students
- Often free or low-cost, making it accessible to all students
- Chance to explore topics outside your major
Pro tip:
Follow your university's social media accounts and join relevant student groups to stay informed about upcoming events. Don't be shy about approaching speakers after the event – many are happy to chat with interested students.
6. Join a Club or Start Your Own
Extracurricular activities are a fantastic way to pursue your passions, make friends, and develop leadership skills. Whether you're into robotics, salsa dancing, or environmental activism, there's likely a club for you. And if there isn't, why not start one? If I could turn back time, I would start a paranormal club in my university! I am sure there are many ghosts and ghouls waiting to get featured in my club's social media updates. 😂
Benefits of club involvement:
- Skill development in areas like leadership, event planning, and teamwork
- Social connections with like-minded individuals
- Resume builder that shows initiative and commitment
- Opportunity to make a difference on campus and in the community
Pro tip:
If you can't find a club that matches your interests, gather like-minded peers and start your own. Most universities have processes in place to support new student organizations.
7. Intern in Your Field of Interest
Internships provide invaluable real-world experience and can often lead to job offers after graduation. They're a chance to apply classroom knowledge to practical situations and get a taste of different career paths. I know the late Steve Job did this in his college years.
Why internships rock:
- Hands-on experience in your chosen field
- Industry connections and potential mentors
- Potential for future employment or strong references
- Insight into different company cultures and work environments
Tip:
Check out for internship opportunities in various fields that are related to your field of study. Also, don't overlook your university's career center – they often have exclusive internship listings and can help you prepare your application materials.
8. Learn a New Skill Unrelated to Your Major
Diversifying your skill set can make you more well-rounded and potentially open up unexpected career paths. Plus, it's a great way to challenge yourself and keep your mind active outside of your regular studies. It is a shame that I did not realize about this during my tertiary education!
Skills to consider:
- Coding (even for non-CS majors)
- Photography or video editing
- Public speaking or improv comedy
- Financial literacy and investing basics
- Cooking or baking
Online learning platform:
Coursera offers a wide range of courses from top universities. For more hands-on skills, consider platforms like Skillshare or Udemy.
9. Attend a Music Festival or Major Sporting Event
University is the perfect time to experience those big events you've always wanted to see. Gather your friends and make it happen. Whether it's Coachella, the Super Bowl, or Comic-Con, these large-scale events can be unforgettable experiences.
Why it's worth it:
- Unforgettable experiences and stories to tell
- Bonding with friends over shared interests
- Cultural enrichment and exposure to new art forms or sports
- Potential networking opportunities with fellow attendees
Tip:
Look for student discounts on tickets and transportation. Many events offer volunteer opportunities that can get you free or discounted entry in exchange for working a few shifts.
10. Create a Digital Portfolio or Personal Brand
Start building your online presence now to give yourself a head start in the job market. In today's digital age, many employers will Google you before an interview – make sure they like what they find! I am glad that I have starting blogging when I was still an undergraduate in my university.
Steps to take:
- Create a professional website showcasing your projects and skills
- Develop a strong LinkedIn profile, connecting with classmates and professors
- Start a blog or YouTube channel in your field of interest
- Engage professionally on Twitter or other relevant social platforms
Tool recommendation:
Blogger by Google offers free and user-friendly website building tools. For a more customizable option, consider learning WordPress.
Conclusion
Your university years are a unique time of growth, exploration, and self-discovery. While academics are undoubtedly important, don't forget to seize the many other opportunities available to you. From traveling with friends to launching a side hustle, these experiences will shape you into a well-rounded individual ready to take on the world after graduation.
Remember, it's not about doing everything on this list. Pick the activities that resonate with you and align with your goals. The key is to make the most of your time on campus and create memories that will last a lifetime. University is more than just classes and exams – it's a chance to discover who you are and who you want to become.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start making the most of your university experience. Try new things, step out of your comfort zone, and embrace the journey. These could be some of the best years of your life – make them count!
Images credit: Shutterstock
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