Ledger

It’s the fourth quarter in the Apple Cup. Our Huskies are locked in a tie game. With only a few minutes on the clock, we get the ball.

On the first play, one of our receivers breaks free and is wide open. The quarterback spots him and launches the ball in his direction. With this catch we can win the game, but the receiver is not looking back.

Many students run through college chasing a high GPA, but neglect to look over their shoulders to become aware of opportunities around them. Students must look, then reach out, and take an active approach to getting the most from their college experience.

While a strong GPA is important, involvement in extracurricular activities can help open doors to academic and career resources. Some of the benefits of student involvement include: teambuilding, networking, and leadership experience.

T.E.A.M. “Together everyone achieves more.” If you have worked on a group project, you know that sometimes it may seem easier to just run off and do it yourself, but working on a team can produce benefits that cannot easily be reached alone.

Along with diversity in ideas, an efficient team can reduce individual workload and time commitments. This comes in handy when we think about how much spare time we all have.

It is never too early to start networking. Getting ahead is about what you know and who knows you know it. By getting involved on campus, people will have a chance to see what you are all about.

Once people recognize your skills, you are more likely to be amongst the first “in the loop” when internships, jobs, and scholarships are being posted.

Also, some scholarships are by referral only. If the people referring do not know anything about you, it is unlikely that you will see any of those dollars flying over your head.

How many times have you decided not to pursue a job due to lack of experience? Student organizations are a safe place to develop your leadership skills. Conflict resolution, project management, and effective communication skills are among the key attributes employers look for in their applicants.

As a leader in a student organization, you can cater your experience to your needs. For example, if you are pursuing a career in public relations, you could take a public relations position within an organization on campus.

While it is important to stay focused on your primary goal, running down the field toward the goal line with blinders on just may cost you the game. The teambuilding, networking, and leadership experience available in student organizations are skills that will allow you to take control of your future.

The receiver looks up over his right shoulder. Catching a glimpse of the ball, he stretches out his arms and snags the ball out of the air without missing a step.

With the ball in hand, he again focuses on the end zone and high steps our Huskies to victory.

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