College is where learners have to be independent and responsible without anyone having to prod them. It is the place where one can either build a solid career foundation and move ahead in life with head held high or fail to make the most of the experience as he or she misses out on academics or extramural activities.
Earlier, education was mostly restricted to classroom teaching. People had access to libraries but not the Internet. Globalisation was not a phenomenon, and learners would mostly stick to the resources that were readily available.
With limited modes of entertainment back then, individuals could probably focus on academic activities more, though networking was a challenge in absence of mobile phones.
Years spent in college are crucial for any individual, as it can make or break his or her career prospects. It’s important that learners remember that education is their first priority. Everything comes after that.
College, however, is not just for rule adherence in classrooms and exam preparations.
From the moment one arrives on campus, he or she should start socialising and meeting new people. The person must attend organised events for learners, find out more about personal interests, and pursue a passion, too.
One advice that any teacher would give learners would be to stay focussed on goals.
Every college-going individual should learn the art of balancing between what they need and what they like.
Here are five ways to make college life count
- Make use of available resources – Colleges usually give learners full access to its resources, most of them free of cost. Institutes, these days, are equipped with career-centres, gyms, activity clubs and playgrounds. One can exploit these to become a healthier and sharper person.
- Participate in activities – College is probably the perfect time to explore potential and showcase talents. Learners should take initiatives and responsibilities. Helming tasks such as organising a field trip or a debate competition or editing a college magazine could be ways one can test his or her mettle. Learners need to take part in activities to find out about the potential they possess.
- Devote time to building networks – Nurturing contacts and building networks can help individuals learn from others and find new opportunities. College is where one has access to a huge group of peers, and most importantly lecturers. Some of these contacts can go a long way in mentoring learners, career counselling and job search.
- Look for internship opportunities – By seeking out an internship opportunity during college, one can gain a first-hand job experience while also making valuable additions to the resume. If the intern performs well, the company may end up hiring him or her, too, once they graduate.
- Plan the academic calendar well – When a learner registers for classes, he or she should do so with the understanding that it is important to learn practical skills too. It’s best to choose the ones that fit the schedule and furthers academic interests. Part of the planning should also include talking to professors, seeking their advice. Career advisers often help individuals plan out their academic calendar that ensures personal and academic growth.
- Organise study groups – Often exchanging notes and ideas give learners a better understanding of where they stand in a class or a batch. Such activities will also give learners a reason to bond with your peers, clarify doubts beyond classrooms and learn something new from other individuals. Collaboration can be the best way to succeed in class.
One college that gives its students plenty of opportunities and state-of-the-art resources to learn, gain relevant experiences and grow, both personally and academically, is Chinmaya Vishwa Vidyapeeth (CVV) in Kerala.
The institute seeks to integrate the best practices of modern pedagogical advances with the beauty of the traditional gurukula model of learning and prepare learners to address contemporary challenges, inspiring them to leave a positive impact on the world.
Set in an extensive compound of ten acres in Kerala’s lush, green countryside, amidst temple shrines and lily ponds, the CEG campus offers both an energised vibrancy that inspires students to strive for excellence and a serene ambience that attracts aspirants who come in search of peace and solitude from the world over.
Conclusion
CVV is one of the premier institutes in India, with a noble lineage in education. And our value system is even older than our legacy! At CVV, we leave no stone unturned to provide our students with a hands-on and immersive educational experience.
