Are you headed off to college? If so, congratulations! It’s an exciting time. You’ll be learning many new things, meeting tons of new people, and figuring out what you want your future to look like. But how much do you know about non-academic lessons that are important for life beyond school? College will prepare you for life through lessons learned in the classroom as well as outside the classroom.
- Time Management
One of the most important things you learn in college is how to manage your time. This skill will help you stay on top of your coursework, social life, and other responsibilities. Time management skills are essential for anyone, whether in school or not. If you can learn to balance your time effectively, you’ll be able to get more done in less time and feel less stressed out. One way to improve your time management skills is by using a planner or calendar. Plan out your days (and weeks, if needed), and make sure to schedule in time for everything important to you. - Overcoming Adversity
In college, you’ll face challenges and setbacks. It’s how you overcome these obstacles that will determine your success. When things don’t go your way, it’s essential to stay positive and keep moving forward. Don’t let one bad experience or failure discourage you from reaching your goals. It’s also important to learn how to ask for help when you need it. Some people are more than willing to lend a hand if you ask for it. Surround yourself with positive people who will support and encourage you during difficult times. - How To Handle Stress
As a college student, there will be many sources of stress in your life. You have schoolwork and exams, social pressures from friends and roommates, new responsibilities as an adult, and the list goes on! It would help if you learned how to manage stress effectively, not derail you or hold you back from reaching your goals. Several things can help reduce stress levels, including exercise (it releases those feel-good endorphins!), talking to someone about what you’re feeling (a friend, family member, counselor), practicing mindfulness techniques like meditation or yoga, and more.
Learn what works best for yourself when dealing with stressful situations and avoid ignoring them if they become problematic. Even if you’re busy, it’s essential to take time for yourself. If stress gets out of hand or becomes unmanageable, consider seeking professional help. It might be beneficial to talk with someone who can provide more insight into why you feel the way that you do and how other people have overcome similar obstacles in their lives.
- Networking
Networking is one of the most important things you can do for your career. It’s not something that starts once you have a job, it should be something that you’re doing all the time! In college, networking can take many different forms. You can join clubs and organizations related to your field of interest, attend career fairs, or meet with professionals in your industry. The more people you know, the more opportunities will become available to you. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people who might help you advance in your career. The worst they can say is no!
These are just four non-academic lessons you can learn from college. But there are many more out there. Be open to new experiences, and you’ll be sure to learn a lot of valuable lessons that will help you in your future. Good luck!
