Five Things Students Should Learn While At College

Heather Ockenfels is the Director of First-Year Experience & Transition Programs at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Heather Ockenfels is the Director of First-Year Experience & Transition Programs at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln

When students graduate from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, they leave with many great memories. Even more important are the valuable life skills they take with them.

1. Connecting with Academic Experts
Students have numerous opportunities to connect with UNL faculty in and outside of the classroom. Faculty members use their expertise and knowledge to mentor the next generation of scholars. At UNL one way to deepen this connection is to be involved in the Undergraduate Creative Activities & Research Experiences (UCARE) program. Through UCARE students work closely with faculty to gain in-depth knowledge and address real-world issues while also benefitting from a stipend. More information can be found at: http://www.unl.edu/ucare.

2. Managing Time
To balance a successful and healthy work/life as adults, students must learn time management skills. Students who struggle with time management can easily slide into challenging times. Your student can stop by 127 South Love Library starting in the fall to meet with an Academic Success Coach and develop a weekly or semester calendar that starts them off right in managing their academic and personal commitments.

3. Appreciating Diversity
UNL students come from all cultures and walks of life: small towns, big cities, even different countries. Encourage your student to appreciate and learn from UNL’s diversity. Students can meet and work with others who are different from themselves in the classroom, dining halls, on intramural teams, and on and off campus. A great way to connect with other students is through Recognized Student Organizations. Your student can find more information about RSO’s through the Student Involvement Office at http://involved.unl.edu/organizations.

4. Giving Back to the Community
UNL is proud to be a vibrant part of the Lincoln community and students have many opportunities to learn how to give back to the community and beyond. Programs such as The Big Event http://bigevent.unl.edu and Relay for Life help students to experience the power of service and unity. Your student can also connect to service on a deeper level through the Center for Civic Engagement. Giving back to others is a life-long skill that keeps on giving. http://engage.unl.edu.

5. Valuing Life-long Learning
UNL students develop an appreciation for life-long learning both during and after college. Whether your student is reading for a class, researching for a project, working with a team, or writing a paper, they are learning. These skills continue into adulthood when starting a new job, joining a local organization, or watching the evening news. Talking with students about what they are learning can help them to reflect on all the life skills they are gaining at UNL.