5 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Campus Experience

August 15, 2018/Andrea Kay

Idaho Falls in one of the best places to live these days, which is why we aren’t surprised that Idaho’s university enrollment is breaking records. The first years of college can be overwhelming. After all, a few brief years is now all that separates you from full-on adulthood. While you may feel that the best years of your life ended when you walked across your high school graduation stage, we offer five tips to get the most out of what your campus has to provide and to ensure that the best years are yet to come.

Living On Campus

One of the reasons many people think of high school as their golden years is because of the strong sense of community that is felt within the walls of their high school. This sense of communal belonging doesn’t have to end there. Living in on-campus or near-campus housing during your college tenure is the perfect way to stay close to the numerous activities that your university’s campus offers. Living in on-campus or near-campus housing gives you an opportunity to fraternize with your classmates and opens the door to creating life-long friendships.

Search for apartments and houses near campus as well, just be sure to start your apartment search as soon as possible. Don’t worry, the college vibe still is going to be strong. As you look at apartments, take note of what parking is provided, the furniture that might come with it, and other small details like that. You should also look out for different red flags in the apartment, such as mold, damage, and electrical issues.

Student Groups

Another way to stay involved and feel a strong sense of community on campus is joining a student group. Most universities offer an array of student groups making joining one of them a perfect way to either expand your horizons or meet like-minded individuals.

Go Abroad

For many people, college is the only opportunity that they have to experience overseas living, which is precisely why we recommend utilizing your school’s travel abroad program. Living abroad is one of the most culturally forward things you can do. Not only do you get the opportunity to experience another culture for a semester or a year, but you also spend time preparing for time abroad with like-minded students.

Engage Professors

Many students are shy when it comes to interacting with professors; if you are one these students, stop! Professors are your single greatest resource during your college career. Utilizing your professors’ office hours is an excellent way for them to get to know you, for you to get a better grasp of course material, and for you to discover extracurricular opportunities.

Utilize Campus Resources

Most campuses also offer a resource center that assists with internships and job placement, and you should take advantage of these services as well. Go take an aptitude test in the career center or other pre-employment assessments.

Conclusion

Your university wants you to be successful and wants you to have an engaged college career. As you begin engaging with your campus, you will quickly find yourself experiencing a well-rounded college career worth the money it costs you.