How to increase your skills while studying in college? – An easy and complete guide
Starting college is a big turning point for any student. New friends, new subjects, and lots of expectations about your career. But did you know that there are some things you can do during college that will prove to be very helpful for your future career?
In today’s era, just having a degree is not enough. Companies prefer people who have different skills, experience and learning attitude. So if you start developing certain things in yourself from now itself, then when you go for a job after graduation, you will have a strong resume.
1. Do an internship – get real world experience
Internship means working in a company, organization or institute for some time so that you can get experience in the field in which you want to make a career.Benefits:
- You will get real workplace experience
- You will get to learn professional skills
- A solid line will be added to your resume
- Good performance may lead to a job offer
- Some internships also offer a stipend
How to find:
Contact your college’s career center, department, or professor. They will tell you which internships are currently available in your field. You can also find internships on online platforms like Internshala, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor.
2. Do a summer job – earn money along with experience
It feels good to relax during holidays, but if you do a small job during these days, it will only benefit you. Like working in a cafe, becoming an assistant in a library, or working for an online store.Benefits:
- You will learn to take responsibility
- You will get experience of earning money
- Time management will improve
- Work experience will be added to your resume
3. Learn new things by doing online courses
Nowadays there are many platforms on the Internet where you can learn new skills for free or at a low cost.Example:
Coursera, Udemy, edX, Google Career Certificates
You can do courses like Graphic Design, Digital Marketing, Coding, Data Science, Public Speaking, Excel etc.
If you complete a course and also get its certificate, then it proves to be very effective in your resume. This also shows that you are ready to learn new things.
4. Become an RA (Resident Assistant) – Learn leadership and management skills
The job of an RA (Resident Assistant) in a college hostel is to help new students, tell them about the policies of the college and if someone has any problem, then solve it.Benefits:
- Free room and mess facility can be provided
- Leadership, communication and problem solving skills develop
- Get a chance to work with the college administration
- This experience is also very useful in future job interviews
5. Volunteer – Improve your skills along with social service
If you want to help others, then there is nothing better than volunteering. You can join an NGO, work for the elderly, or help teach children.Benefits:
- You will get a chance to understand your emotional side
- Soft skills like teamwork and emotional intelligence will develop
- You will get the satisfaction of contributing to society
- Your honesty and commitment will be reflected in your resume
How to start:
Join social clubs running in your college or visit websites like iVolunteer, GiveIndia, or UN Volunteering to check out opportunities
6. Join professional clubs and associations
There are many professional clubs related to your course or interest, such as management club, debate club, marketing club, college radio, etc.Benefits:
- Networking can provide opportunities for future jobs
- Guidance from seniors
- Interaction and exchange of ideas with people of your interest
- Development of leadership and team management skills
If there is no club and you want to start something new, then create a club yourself. This will bring out your ability to take initiative which companies like very much.
7. Study Abroad – Know the world and yourself
Studying abroad is not just an adventure, it can be a great opportunity for both your life and career.Benefits:
- Experience in a new culture and language
- Increases self-reliance and understanding
- Develops a global mindset
- Companies are interested in your international exposure
How to:
Contact your college’s study abroad department or international office. There are also scholarships available that can cover your tuition fees and living expenses.
Use the career center – the most underutilized college facility
Every college has a career center that offers career counseling, resume checks, mock interviews and internship information.
You can get:
- Help in planning your career
- Tips to improve your resume and cover letter
- Lists of internships and jobs
- Interview preparation
Make the most of this facility – it can help you decide your career path.
Conclusion – Preparation today, success tomorrow
The period in the college is not confined to only bookish knowledge but also focuses on the development of personality and skills. The earlier you start working on your skills, the easier they will make your ability to face challenges in life.
Whether it is an internship, volunteering, online courses or professional clubs – each activity will teach you something new. Write these experiences in your resume, share them confidently in interviews, and prove that you are prepared not just for studies but also for the real world.
Gaurav Tagore is a forward-thinking Director known for his impactful work in the education media space. He leads content that helps students make informed academic and career decisions while offering a window into real campus experiences. With a strong focus on clarity and relevance, Gaurav continues to be a trusted voice for student communities across the country.