How to Get the Most out of a Public College or University

Choosing between private and public colleges and universities can seem like a tough dilemma, but the two can offer comparable experiences, depending on how you use your time. Getting involved on campus, making use of school resources, getting to know faculty and finding leadership roles are just a few of many ways to get great results from your public education.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Make yourself aware of university resources from day one. Locate resources offered by the library, the career center, your residence hall or the departments in which you take classes for chances to get the most out of the services that surround you.
2. Identify the strengths of your school. If you are undecided about a major, or even if you have a major, consider getting involved in some capacity with the programs or departments that are strongest and best known at the university.
3. Involve yourself on and off campus. Search for existing organizations in which you have the opportunity to serve in a leadership role, or start your own new organization to suit your interests. Focus on making an impact on the campus and community through your organization.
4. Get involved in smaller communities within the college. Join groups to get to know others who share you major, your career aspirations or other interests. Interest groups will often invite speakers from the field or help you network and make connections.
5. Get to know several professors. While you may not have the advantage of small classes where the professors know the names of all their students, you can still establish meaningful relationships by visiting professors during office hours, asking them about areas you are interested in pursuing further and taking multiple classes with the same professor.
6. Take as many upper level and research courses as possible. Enroll in graduate courses or a capstone. Utilize the best and most advanced learning your college or university has to offer.