Realizing everything you are expected to accomplish in your four or five years of college can be a bit of a headache. Deciding on a major that you love and feel you can succeed in is stressful enough. All of the extra advising appointments and meetings to make sure that you’re on track to graduate on time can make college just a little bit harder. Luckily there are some experiences in college that are not only an impressive addition to your resume, but may also add some excitement to your day.
1. Find an on-campus job
Don’t be fooled, most universities actually do offer positions besides the dreaded “cafeteria job.” Working with food isn’t for everyone, so play around on your college’s student employment website and you might be surprised to find that they’re looking for campus tour guides or ushers to stand around during basketball games.
2. Join student organizations
Going to a university like MSU can really pay off, especially if you’re looking for a club to join. With over 700 registered student organizations on campus, there’s something for everyone. Not only is it a fun way to meet new friends that share your interests, but it’s a great way to discover a passion that you may not have even known you had, and it’s an easy way to stand out in the workplace. Employers love seeing candidates who are involved in activities other than simply studying all day.
3. Volunteer
Make yourself feel good by helping others. Many honor societies and student organizations specifically dedicate their time to volunteer work. Volunteering boosts your resume by showing employers your involvement in the community and that you care to spend your time bettering it.
4. Get involved with undergraduate research
Many people think that they can’t find opportunities in research labs unless they have declared a major in a certain field. This is absolutely false. Let’s say you find psychology interesting, but don’t know whether or not you want to major in it. Worry not. Find your school’s psychology website, and scroll through the available research opportunities. Email some professors to announce your interest in the work that they’re doing and wait for a response. Undergraduate research is a great way to get a headstart in the workforce, and it’ll teach you valuable skills. It can also be a lot of fun if you’re involved in a project of interest to you.
5. Study abroad
It’s like a vacation (+ the studying). Sign me up.
6. Land an internship
Sometimes internships seem daunting, but they don’t have to be. Internships are practically a necessity in today’s world, so if you have to do it, why not make it fun? Of course, if your major reflects your interests, it shouldn’t be too difficult to find something you’d enjoy doing. For example, if your dream is to become a journalist, check with the local, or perhaps university, newspaper. It’s likely they’re always looking for interns to help them out.