Top 3 Most Valuable Lessons I Learned In University
Attend Office Hours.
Where's the class for learning how to keep an eye out for opportunity?
The few times that I went to office hours, I was the only person who showed up. Most people, including me, didn't realize the potential opportunities that could arise from a face-to-face.
From boosted grades, to research project invitations, to interesting convos. Having those one on ones during office hours was the best non-competitive opportunity source I found at university.
Drop Classes.
I think we need to give up on things more often.
While attention to opportunity is an important skill, so is its counterpart of vigilance for catastrophe.
I was stubborn when it came to difficult classes. It never occurred to me to think, “ am I really willing to spend a few thousand dollars to most likely get a crappy grade in this class?”
Learning when to jump a sinking ship is just as important as perseverance.
Do Side Projects.
While in university for psychology, I taught myself coding on the side. Now I work as a software developer in a mental health startup.
The most valuable thing I learned about myself while in university was that I feel most fulfilled when I have a passion project on the go.
Just as useful was the validation that the side projects and skill that we learn today are like legos that can eventually be combined into something unique and valuable.
Networking.
Non-Commuter School.
Internships.
Option Exploration.
Aim for 80.
Volunteered.
Double Down on Interest.