COLLEGE CAREER SUCCESS How to stay in touch with your college path other than going to class by Hiral Patel Opinion Editor
The holy trinity to success in college and after college are your grades, campus participation, and future networking and preparation. Especially if you plan on applying for graduate school, the chances of getting into higher education institutions become more difficult every year. Here’s some insight on how to expose yourself to resources that will get you involved here at UNC Charlotte. Academics Grades aren’t everything, but it’s not ideal to completely slack off. We take classes to gain knowledge so that we can become adequate workers in our field. It’s fair to say that no one would trust a doctor who did not pass basic biology classes, and neither would medical schools when reviewing applications.
or the study lounges in your dorm building since they are open 24 hours every day. Quiet study space and easy access to resources will help you focus on your studies and help with retaining information while you’re taking notes, practicing a presentation, or simply studying. Honors College/Societies Invitations to your major’s honor college or national honor society are a great way to boost your resume and awareness of your field. Your future employers may give you more
leeway just because of your membership with the honor society, or the graduate school of your choice may increase your chances of admission if they’re impressed with your honors thesis. However, these invitations only come when you achieve high academic excellence in your field, watch out for these emails and take advantage of the opportunities. Campus Involvement Niner Engage is your best friend when it comes to campus involvement. There are over 400 student organizations for you
to choose from. You can find organizations that have to do with your major, your hobbies, and even volunteering and community service. Getting involved with certain campus organizations not only helps you feel closer to what you want to do in the future, but it helps you find peace when stressing out with work and schoolwork, opens your eyes to new interests, and it’s also a great way to make friends. Student Unions/Greek Life Niner Engage is also your best friend when it comes to
University Center for Academic Excellence If you’re having trouble in classes, attend UCAE tutoring. It’s free for all students. Their mission is to make sure you do well and understand the material in your classes. They care about your grades just as much as you. Proper Study Space Is your dorm room too loud? Does your space distract you from being able to study? Try prioritizing the resources and seating at Atkins Library
networking. Joining a fraternity or sorority, or student union can help you better transition into campus life. Especially if you are new to the city of Charlotte or even North Carolina, joining these organizations can help you network with peers that you will build closer bonds with throughout your undergraduate years and may work with in the future. University Career Center You can also network with individuals from around the world online. You can start by going to the University Career Center to work on your resume, cover letter, LinkedIn profile, or Hire-A-Niner account, and even practice mock interviews. This is the perfect way to find internships or employment opportunities on-campus or off-campus. The Univesity Career Center is available to you for free whether you are a UNC Charlotte student or alumni. If you take even some of these steps towards academic excellence, campus involvement, or networking, you are on the right path to becoming a successful Niner. Don’t be hard on yourself because, at the same time, you are supposed to enjoy your time in college, but also remember that there are resources all over campus that are available to you when you need help.
Photo of Career Center sign by Niyathi Sulkunte
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