More and more these days, prospective college students seek out specialized degrees that require a very specific skill set to attain. So while it’s beneficial (and necessary) for medical students to understand hla immunology, and for law students to grasp the subtle points of an H1B visa –– it’s also important to remember that college is about experiences. And more than that, it’s about acquiring the skills you need to be successful –– regardless of your field of study. With that in mind, here are five lessons every college student should learn before they enter the “real world.”
Basic Writing Ability
You don’t have to be an English major to determine if something’s written well or poorly; in reality it’s pretty easy recognize disjointed and sloppy writing when you see it. That’s why developing good writing habits early on is essential to succeed in a business era where the majority of communication is done through emails and texts.
Foreign Language
Taking a foreign language course is a tremendous way to broaden your horizons. Even if you don’t become fully fluent, immersing yourself in other cultures is valuable to your own personal development. Plus, traveling to a place where no one speaks your native tongue is something everyone should experience at least once. The good news is, many universities offer student-exchange and study-abroad programs to foreign countries.
Household Necessities
No one should be able to graduate college without knowing how to operate a washing machine or fry an egg. It may sound mundane (or bizarre to some) but everyone should understand how to complete these basic domestic tasks.
Budgeting
Let’s face it, money talks. In business –– but also in one’s personal life –– learning how to manage money will help relieve stress and improve your quality of life. No, hoarding cash won’t make you happy; nor should you deny yourself every time you want to make an impulse buy. The important lesson to learn here is figuring out when it’s appropriate to live it up a little, and knowing when you can’t afford it.
Hard Work
More so than any other ability, the capacity for doing hard work is perhaps the most essential tool you can acquire while in college. Fortunately, learning this essential skill can take any number of forms. Whether it’s pulling all-nighters to study for tests, working weekends to support yourself, writing fifteen-page papers, or performing months-long studies –– the bottom line is that successful people work hard. Talent can take you up to a certain point, but only application will let you achieve your goals.