19 Things All Students Should do Before they Graduate

Graduating from university is a rite of passage for young adults all over the world. It’s a time when you finally become an adult and take your first steps into the real world. But it can be an intimidating experience, especially if you don’t know what to expect.

That’s why we’ve put together this list of 19 things you should do before you graduate. Some of them may seem like common sense, but others might be new to you. We hope that by following our advice, you’ll have a smoother transition from student to professional life.

Top tips

1. Get involved in extracurricular activities:

Employers value well-rounded individuals, so make sure to get involved in activities outside of your studies. Join a club or society, volunteer for a cause you care about, or take on a leadership role in an organisation. This will not only help you stand out on your resume, but it will also give you the opportunity to meet new people and develop new skills.

2. Start networking:

One of the most important things you can do before you graduate is to start building your professional network. Attend industry events, connect with professionals on LinkedIn, and follow companies that interest you on social media. The sooner you start making connections, the easier it will be to find a job after graduation.

3. Get an internship:

An internship is a great way to gain work experience and learn about an industry or company. It can also help you decide if a certain field is the right fit for you. And if you impress your internship employer, there’s a good chance they’ll offer you a full-time job when you graduate.

4. Start looking for jobs:

Don’t wait until graduation to start looking for a job. The sooner you start your job search, the better your chances of landing your dream job. Use online job boards, networking connections, and career fairs to find open positions that match your skills and interests.

5. Update your resume:

Your resume is one of the most important tools in your job search, so make sure it’s up to date before you start applying for jobs. Include any relevant work experience, internships, extracurricular activities, and skills that would make you a good fit for the position.

6. Practice interviewing:

Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but they don’t have to be. The more practice you have, the more confident you’ll feel when it comes time to interview for your dream job. Schedule mock interviews with friends or family members, and role-play common interview questions.

7. Learn about salary negotiation:

One of the most important things you need to know before you graduate is how to negotiate your salary. Do your research to find out what the average salary is for your position and location, and don’t be afraid to ask for more than the initial offer. The worst that can happen is they say no, but you might be surprised at how often employers are willing to negotiate.

8. Create a budget:

Now that you’re about to enter the real world, it’s time to start thinking about your finances. Creating a budget will help you stay on track and avoid debt. Make sure to account for your income, expenses, savings, and debts so you can live within your means.

9. Go on an exchange programme:

One of the best ways to prepare for your future is to experience another culture. Studying abroad will give you the opportunity to learn new things, meet new people, and see the world from a different perspective. It’s an experience you’ll never forget, and it will look great on your resume.

10. Get a part-time job:

If you need some extra cash or want to gain work experience, consider getting a part-time job while you’re still in school. There are many benefits to working while you study, including developing time management skills, gaining independence, and building your professional network.

11. Travel:

See as much of the world as you can while you’re still young and have the time and energy to travel. It’s an experience you’ll never forget, and it will give you a new perspective on life.

12. Learn a new language:

With the world becoming increasingly globalised, it’s more important than ever to be able to communicate in multiple languages. Learning a new language can open up new opportunities, help you meet new people, and make travelling easier.

13. Make new friends from all walks of life:

One of the best things about university is the opportunity to meet people from all over the world. Don’t limit yourself to making friends with people who are like you. Step out of your comfort zone and get to know people from different backgrounds. You might be surprised at how much you have in common.

14. Find a mentor:

A mentor is someone who can offer advice, guidance, and support. They can help you navigate your way through university and into your career. Mentors can be found in many different places, so don’t be afraid to ask around or look for them online.

15. Live off-campus:

Living off-campus is a great way to save money and gain independence. If you can afford it, consider renting an apartment or house with some friends. It’s a great opportunity to learn how to cook, do your own laundry, and budget your money.

16. Manage your time wisely:

One of the most important skills you can learn in university is time management. With so many things to do and so little time, it’s important to be able to prioritize and use your time wisely. There are many different ways to do this, so find what works best for you and stick to it.

17. Be open-minded and embrace new challenges:

One of the best things about university is that it’s a time of growth and change. Be open to new experiences and challenges, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. It’s the perfect time to try new things and figure out who you are and what you want in life.

18. Enjoy every minute of it:

University is a time to learn, grow, and have fun. It’s a time to make new friends, try new things, and figure out who you are. So make the most of it! Enjoy every minute, because it will be over before you know it.

19. Don’t be afraid to ask for help:

Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Sometimes we all need a little help, and there’s nothing wrong with that. If you’re struggling with something, don’t be afraid to reach out to your friends, family, or a professional for help.

Conclusion 

University is an amazing time in your life. It’s a time to learn, grow, and have fun. So make the most of it! These are just a few of the many things you can do to make the most of your university experience. What are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring!

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Minoas graduated with a Merit upon studying the full-time MPA Public Administration – International Development degree (MPA-ID) at the University of York. He is currently working as a freelance EU affairs consultant in Belgium.
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