One of the most overlooked resources at Universities would easily be the professors. Sure, my evidence may be anecdotal but I have a sneeky suspicion that many students forgot how awesome professors can be. For starters, they’ve all been out in the “real world” and certainly have some “real world” experience to offer you. Sit down and talk to them about what they’ve learned. The key to knowledge is allowing yourself to listen to those who have already made the mistakes and learned the lessons on their own.

Instead of treating your professor as a television (something turned on in the background) try getting to know the person hired to help you. I’ve found that a number of my professors are extremely friendly, helpful, and genuinely interested in looking out for you. Professors are the gatekeepers for unique job and internship opportunities, they’re the definition of a “connecter.” I’ve remained pretty close with one of my professors from two semesters ago. I looked him up on Linkedin and every time I log in I’m reminded that somewhere, somebody at Sun Microsystems is hiring. In return for his connection, I wrote an endorsement which reminds him and everyone on his profile how helpful he can be.

Don’t ever think you’re imposing on a professor when you go in to talk to them individually. Don’t get trapped thinking “oh, I’ll talk to them next week” either. Get to know them from the get-go, you have nothing to lose. Sure, not all professors are that great but they’re the ones you should go meet with the most! Think of the favors you can do for them: help them understand why you and your peers don’t “get the material”, discuss what you’d rather see in the class; it’ll show you take initiative and it’ll probably make the class more enjoyable.

If you’re in college and haven’t found out by now, class is a mere fraction of your overall experience.