I remember when I was a starry-eyed college freshman who felt that there was so much to achieve but no place to begin. I didn’t know where to look for opportunities that would add to my college experience or how to try out new things that weren’t tied to my grades.
If you can relate, don’t fret, I’ve come a long way from being a little freshman to now being halfway through my junior year; I’m here to help. Read along, and I hope you keep these tips in the back of your mind as you progress through your college journey!
- Step Outside Your Dorm Room, Not Just For Class
-
It’s normal to want to stay in your comfort zone, especially when you’re in a new environment and don’t know anyone. However, it’s crucial that you explore campus, your new home for the next four years, and become comfortable with being alone (not in your dorm or apartment). A good place to start being comfortable is the holy grounds of Strozier.
As a freshman, I barely stepped foot inside; I get it, classes are relatively easy, you might not have anyone to go with, and it can be extremely intimidating. Still, in the blink of an eye, you’ll be spending most days inside this brightly lit building, sipping coffee until your brain hurts. Get used to it now so you can find your favorite study spots.
As a junior, in the midst of wrapping up exams and projects before the end of the term, I’ve been spending almost every day of the week at Strozier. After finding my solid group of friends, studying there is much more enjoyable. The best conversations, bonding moments, and crash-outs all happen in this not-so-wonderful place, but I promise staying on campus after your class has ended, or arriving a bit earlier before your morning classes, makes a world of difference.
Even if you don’t like the quietness and seriousness of Strozier, sitting at the Student Union, where there’s a bustling crowd and a piano playing in the background, is much more worth your time than going straight back to your room or apartment. I’ve learned that college is more than your experience inside the classroom, but also what happens outside of it.
- Join a Club, but Not Just Any Club!
-
After you’ve set your routine, it’s important to get involved on campus. I do recommend joining clubs related to your major to meet individuals in the same boat as you and learn more about your chosen career path. However, it’s also important to expand your horizons and tap into your other interests and talents.
For example, as a finance major, I’m involved in business clubs that help with resume boosting and give me insight into a career in finance. Additionally, I’m a staff writer for Her Campus at FSU. Being involved in Her Campus gives me an outlet to explore my passion for writing and challenge myself outside of my regular classes.
Another advantage to joining organizations is that you get to meet students beyond your regular social sphere, and these people become familiar faces around campus, making college feel a little less strange.
Also, in the era where resume building is strategic and crucial to jump-start your career beyond college, internships, and future employers look for prospective students who put forth their time and talents beyond the classroom to something bigger than themselves. Another plus is obtaining an executive position to show leadership and ambition.
- On-Campus Jobs Are Literally The Best
-
Being a broke college student isn’t for the weak. Balancing classes and a job can be difficult, especially a job that doesn’t understand the time commitment of being a full-time student. If you want to make money while not having to sacrifice your grades, finding an on-campus job is the best solution!
I’ve been fortunate enough to work for FSU since my freshman year. Not only have I learned structure, time management, and other skills that I can take with me after college, but I’ve had amazing managers who support me as a student and in my other endeavors.
Having an on-campus job is convenient as well. It’s walking distance from most of my classes, and I get to spend more time at FSU on days when I don’t have classes.
- Internships are Key
-
Competition is thick these days, and receiving an internship offer feels like winning the Hunger Games. However, it’s important to keep applying and persisting through the rejections and the unanswered emails. After all, your hard work both in and outside the classroom should be rewarded with an internship that could potentially land you a job offer straight out of college.
Internships aren’t only about submitting applications anymore, but about who you know and where you go. Attending recruitment and job fairs are also just as important. Companies that visit FSU will take down your information and have you in mind for future opportunities. If you can’t make it to a recruiting event, continuously checking platforms such as Nole Network and Handshake is a must. You never know, your dream job may be one connection away!
- Joining a Chapter
-
Joining a chapter (Greek or not) may not be for everyone; however, going through recruitment sophomore year and being part of one has positively impacted my experience at FSU. It’s brought me my closest friends, community, and so many growth opportunities.
For instance, most chapters encourage philanthropy and community service hours, which forced me to get out of my shell and give back to the Tallahassee community. I learned about several other clubs on campus and joined outside of my chapter, allowing me to explore my different interests. Overall, I’ve become well-rounded and have met so many incredible people.
I hope you take these tips into consideration and use every minute you have while you’re here. It goes by quickly, and you won’t want to have any regrets once you leave!
Want to see more HCFSU? Be sure to follow us on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, YouTube, and Pinterest!