This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at WVU chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

I often feel like I’m behind. It feels like everyone is doing better than me or doing more interesting things than me. I struggle with feeling like I’ll never make it in the “real world” or make it in my career. It’s okay to feel like that, and I have found some tips that will set you up for success during your college career.

Your Online Presence

Creating a professional online presence is essential during your college career. LinkedIn and Handshake are there to help you. You don’t have to have much experience yet, but if you set that profile up early, you can add your achievements as you go. Just start by making a profile with a picture that is somewhat professional, your major, graduation date, etc.

Make Connections

Get to know the people that you listen to every day. Your professors are here to help you. Ask about their research, go to office hours, tell them about yourself and what interests you. They can help you discover opportunities you never knew existed. These connections can lead to great connections and more possibilities down the road.

Experiences Outside Classrooms

Look for experiences that are beneficial to your career. That could be research labs, volunteering opportunities, campus jobs or internships. Anything relevant to you is beneficial to your future. I can’t promise you your dream job during your undergraduate years, but I can guarantee you find a meaningful experience.

Resume Building

Start building your resume before you need to. Just keep adding the things you do or accomplish to the list. It’ll be easier for you to put all of it down when it is time to build your professional resume.

Networking

Networking is so important. Connect with campus by going to career events or asking people about their jobs. Use the LinkedIn you set up. Get in touch with people who are in the field you want to be in.

Explore Career Options

Before committing, explore your options. Research qualifications and find out what you need to be in the field that interests you. Ask around and talk to people. You may find out the career you had in mind isn’t for you, which is perfectly okay! It’s all useful information that will help you.

Take Advantage of Your Resources

Go to the career center! You pay for these resources; use them. These can be especially helpful if you are just starting out. Ask for help. You will be surprised by how many of the resources you haven’t heard of or used.

In the end, it is important for you to set yourself up for success. You don’t need an impressive resume or a five-year plan right now. Start small and strive to make connections. Comparison is easy in college with all these people around us. Everyone has a different path, and you have time to figure out yours. Build the future for yourself in your undergraduate career that you are excited about.

HOW TO SET YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS IN COLLEGE