Somewhere between late nights at Dimond and even later nights downtown, I realized that there is so much to do before graduating. The good, the bad and the ugly taught me one important thing: College is much more than just academics — it's about learning. Although school has been a rollercoaster ride for me, the rewarding outcomes made every struggle worth it. After having my fair share of triumphs and trials, I have some thoughts that I wanted to share with younger Wildcats.
1) Joining email lists
UNH has so much to offer, but it's hard to keep up with everything. I suggest joining the email list of anything that fancies you. If you like volunteering, study abroad, diversity — it is as simple as clicking the “contact us” button and asking to be added to the list. I have secured three internships and countless other opportunities just by reading emails from different departments and organizations.
"You have nothing to lose. If you fail today, try again tomorrow."
2) Keep your dorm room door open
You never know who you're going to meet or who will change your life, so keep the door open and allow people to literally and figuratively walk into your life.
3) Make a budget
… and stick to it. Here is a guide to help you create one.
4) Get involved
Find something that makes you happy and has you looking forward to the day. It could be anything you like. Get a campus job, join fraternity and sorority life or an organization. It’s OK if nothing fancies you at first, attend events to find out where your interests lie.
5) Try working on a project/research
You have nothing to lose. If you fail today, try again tomorrow. E-Center is a great place to meet other individuals who are highly invested in innovation and making a difference. If you already have an idea, you can apply to participate in the Holloway Competition or Social Venture Innovation Challenge, or you can apply for a Parents Association Grant.
6) Career and Professional Service
Each college has its own specialized career counselor who offers weekly walk-in hours. There are free resources available online to apply for jobs and prep you for an interview.
7) Did I mention get involved?
I have to say this twice because it's so important. If you don’t know where to start, subscribe to campus connector, which summarizes most of the events taking place every week.
8) Take advantage of your resources
Did you know Netflix has a discounted student rate? Just kidding, they don't. But that sounds pretty cool, doesn't it? Take advantage of what you are already paying for — the Rec Center, Writing Center, group work spaces, multimedia center (they have free 3D printing) office hours, watching UNH sport teams, the Center for Academic Resources and so many other resources and opportunities.
9) Take some time out for yourself
Be happy. Experiment. Get to really know yourself and love yourself.
What helps you make the most out of college? Tweet us @UNHStudents.
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Written By:
Sriyaa Shah '18 | UNH Social
