College is a time of many ups and downs, experiences, learning opportunities and self-growth. A lot of interests, goals and passions are discovered and discarded in those 3, 4, or 5 years of college.
While some find long-term goals and visualise their lives and careers very early on, others struggle to understand what it is that they want from life. Anxieties, doubts and confusion are what constitutes college.
However, it is nonetheless important to make the most of your final year of college with respect to what you want to do after it.
1. Make a mental map
It’s important to have a rough idea of where you see yourself, immediately after college. You don’t have to know what it is exactly you see yourself doing, but a vague idea should have permeated your head. This idea could either be a master’s or an MBA or a job or simply even a gap year.
The mental map will give you enough time to plan, visualise, mentally and financially prepare yourself for what’s to come. Once you realise where your interest or vague interest lies, you can focus on that throughout your final year.
2. Develop your required skills in the final year
Say, you decide to do your master’s or MBA after college. Find out the relevant colleges, courses, countries and cities you wish to apply to, well in advance (preferably at the beginning of the third year).
Take the necessary help, counselling and idea from people involved in similar fields. Apply for internships and part-time jobs that will help you add to your skillset, pertaining to particular courses/colleges.
Some entrances tests require coaching. Sign yourself up for these classes and dedicate your time to them as often as possible.
Have multiple backup options. Strive for what you want, but backups are key. If you’re prepping for UPSC, which a lot of DU people do, start studying as early as possible and take the necessary coaching as well. However, in case of a worst-case scenario, have a backup.
Perhaps even engage in a group study, if possible.
When it comes to placements, research is key. Understanding job profiles, required skill sets, salary packages, contracts, level of interest are all important factors. Prior research is advised, along with dedication and hard work.
Also Read: What Are ‘Smart’ Identity Cards Being Proposed For DU Students?
3. Confused? Take a gap year
Taking a gap year at any point in life is absolutely okay. We all need time to figure stuff out. It can be the perfect opportunity for self-growth and exploration.
However, don’t take a gap year aimlessly. It’s important to even plan your gap year. Travelling, volunteering, working/interning, learning a language or a skill are all aspects that constitute a gap year.
According to your interests and capabilities, figure out what you want to do or learn in that year you give yourself.
4. Channelise your passion
DU offers a lot of platforms for extracurriculars, academics and sports alike. Find your passion in college and make it grow. Whether it’s dramatics, or debating or public speaking or football.
You need to do what makes you happy. You don’t necessarily need to have one passion, you can have as many as you want.
Additionally, that interest should be dealt with, with utmost dedication and loyalty. It will help you in the future, in some way or another.
5. Have fun
This is perhaps one of the most important things. The last year in DU is perhaps the most crucial.
You need to have fun! Do what you have not done. Eat at that place in North Campus, attend that fest, ask out that person, party, go sightseeing, bunk that class.
It’s important to have goals and plans in life, but it’s equally important to make memories.
Image Source: Google Images
Find the blogger at @janhaviiisharma
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