When I was younger, I always heard how college is going to be the best years of my life. When I first arrived in Vancouver for my Bachelors degree at The University of British Columbia (UBC) in 2019, the pressure got to me, and I made it my goal to make the most of my short time in university. Now that I am going into my final year, here is some non-academic advice that I tell anyone on how to limit FOMO (fear of missing out) during their undergrad, along with how to become a holistic and well rounded person by their senior year.
For context, I studied Business and Computer Science, was in multiple academic and social clubs, did an exchange term, completed 16 months of co-op, was a Teaching Assistant, and did many more things that made my university experience whole.
1. Live in first year residence (if you can)
- This was one of the most important experiences that shaped my time management skills and discipline as a student. Living away from home and taking care of yourself helps you build these good habits. The sooner you start, the better.
- Some of the people that lived on my floor are some of my closest friends to date 4 years later, and I will forever cherish the relationships I built with these people and all the small moments and laughs we had together.
2. Talk to as many people you can in your classes
- Study and do assignments with other people, university is a time for socializing with a side of academics. Your network is your net worth, enough said.
3. Join both academic AND social clubs
- Academic clubs are important for your resume, as you will meet many like-minded people and gain great experience outside of an internship. Academic clubs also provide great networking opportunities for the future, and going for team socials and retreats are always a good time.
- Social clubs are important for your social skills, don’t forget to have fun too!
4. Stay active
- Go to the campus athletic center, play an intramural sport, sign up for a boxing class, do whatever you can to get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day. It will help your mental and physical health, especially when exam season rolls around.
5. Start looking for internships early
- There are job postings year-round, keep applying and constantly update your resume. Don’t forget to leverage your network, as you can even land a job from friends that are currently interning.
6. Don’t waste your summer
- Taking time off is great and is always much needed, but being ahead on your courses is even better. If you aren’t working, do summer courses, side projects, an exchange term, or anything that will lighten your course load or help your resume even more. Even taking 1 out of the 4 months of summer to do something to strengthen your resume will set you up for success during the school year.
I got the inspiration to begin my writing career and write something like this from my mentor, MJ Fadaee. Check out his article as well!
