Top 10 Things College Students Take for Granted

When you’re in college, there are so many resources and opportunities available that you may not even know where to begin. But sometimes you get so caught up in all the things that are around you, that you forget some of the most important ones. Being in college and balancing work and personal life is not always easy but while you’re here, make the most out of it because it only happens once. Here is a list of 10 things that most college students take for granted while they’re in school:

1. Sleep

College students always seem to take for granted how important their sleep is. They stay up all night, they go out, sleep a few hours and then repeat all over again. Everyone has a different idea of what a “good night’s rest” is but we can all agree that sleep is essential to be able to function on a day to day basis. People who don’t get enough sleep often suffer from fatigue, dark circles, low energy levels and they’re more inclined to eating poorly.

2. Money

When you’re in college, money is just as important as sleep. You spend it faster than you get it and it takes you longer to regenerate some more. The truth is we all need money but when you’re going out and buying food all the time it seems to disappear at a much faster rate. You should try to save every little bit that your parent’s give you or at least some of what you earn if you have a job. Use your money wisely for things like gas, groceries and rent but try to cut back on shopping and buying random things you don’t really need. Nobody likes to be broke so spend your money wisely and save. Every little penny counts!

3. Spending quality time with family

It’s funny how when we’re young we spend most of our time if not all of it with our families. But as we get older, we tend to distance ourselves and spend less and less time with them. It’s hard to accept it but one day our parents and our grandparents will be gone so it’s important to spend time with them while they’re still alive. Next time you go home make it a priority to make some time for your mom, dad or whomever it is that you grew up with that raised them. Let them know you’re thankful for all they’ve done and just spend some good old quality time with them whether it’s at home or over dinner.

4. Attending free events on campus

The number of free events on campus every year is overwhelming, yet so many students never really take advantage of it. From movies, to carnivals, concerts and shows, there is definitely something for everyone to attend. A lot of these events tend to be cheesy but they’re free and they’re fun so what are you really losing? Remember how much fun you used to have going to these events when you were a freshmen and you hadn’t reached the legal drinking age? They can still be a lot of fun even after you’ve turned 21 so grab your friends and go out there one last time before you grab your diploma and run.

5. Seminars and Workshops

Schools nowadays offer so many free seminars and workshops that you’d be stupid not to attend. They offer seminars and workshops on just about anything! Cooking, sexual education, health, fitness, career development, networking and so forth. The point is that all these events are put on for you, the student, and they’re planned with the intent of helping and benefiting you. So next time you see or hear about any of these events going on around campus, attend a few and learn something new. You won’t regret it!

6. “Free” Gym Access

Your excuse to not work out before was because you didn’t have access to the gym but now that you do, what’s your excuse? Yes, it’s college and yes we’re all busy but a little workout never hurt anyone. Don’t take this for granted! Take FULL advantage of the equipment and the fitness classes offered by the school. Try something new like yoga, spin or maybe even a dance class. Whatever it is just do it and have fun with it. Just remember that if you choose not to, it’s still coming out of your tuition so you might as well make the best out of it and go while you can!

7. Opportunity to get involved and serve the community

Everyone comes to college and everyone wants to get involved but most people give up or they never really get into it. Yes, you can be part of 10 different clubs and organizations but what good is it if you’re not giving any of them your all? Whatever it is, just find something you love and give it your heart and soul throughout the duration of your college career. Don’t make it about yourself and filling up your resume but rather make it your goal to get involved, give back and make a difference in your community.

8. Office Hours

Every professor offers office hours but yet only about 10% of the student population actually attends. This is sad but true. Professors and teacher assistants are available to help and assist students with anything regarding their subject matter. It’s part of their job and it should be your responsibility as a student to attend at least once or twice a week. It’s always good to touch base with your professor and make sure you’re clear on all the material covered in class before a big project or exam. Visiting professors during office hours also builds relationships and opportunities with your staff that you wouldn’t be able to have otherwise. This can benefit you in the future for letters of recommendations or even opportunities for research.

9. Building connections and relationships with classmates

How many times have you sat in a class and not even known the name of the person next to you? I know this has happened to me semester after semester. It’s like we go to class and just filter everything and everyone else because we just want to get in and get out. But making connections with your classmates is not a bad thing, in fact it’s a very good thing. When you have papers and tests it’s always to have a buddy in class that you can fall back on and ask questions and you guys can even study together. The more people you meet in college the better and easier it gets but this is definitely something that most people tend to really take for granted.

10. Sports Games

Football and basketball games tend to be the popular ones that most people attend but there are so many more then that. Soccer, baseball, volleyball, track, cross country, water polo, and swimming among other sports games are also available for students to attend and support their school’s team. Attending games is part of the unique college experience and you’re really missing out if you’re not taking advantage of it all.