7 real-world skills you must learn during college years

College life is all about learning and exploring new things. Whether it is your coursework, travelling, internships or picking up new hobbies, it provides an unmatched opportunity to grow and learn. All this becomes all the more important as the world gets more and more competitive. Many college students, however, neglect to develop some real-world skills that are extremely crucial to have as all employers look for them in entry-level hires. In this article, we will discuss the seven most crucial skills to learn during college. 

Time management

Managing your time efficiently can help to inculcate a habit of completing your tasks within tight deadlines and given budgeted resources. Students can practise time management by usefully allocating time towards their studies, socialising as well as carving out some time for themselves. So, time management is not only a part of student skills, but also a lesson to carry throughout your work life. Students can use tools like reminders, weekly planners and lists to help with the skill of time management.

Communication

Both verbal and written communication are important skills to develop and have. No matter what line of work you wish to pursue, writing is a crucial skill to learn. It’s a great student skill to have that helps you communicate across departments via email in a professional manner. You can present your ideas in the most effective way by working on your written communication skills by taking a course that teaches you how to write, edit and proofread.

Verbal skills are similarly crucial to have. Developing good verbal skills will help you communicate your ideas more confidently and open you up to leadership roles. These can be practised on a regular basis by pushing yourself to become more social, paying more attention while speaking, listening, and asking questions.

Networking

Networking is a highly underrated skill. It is important to develop because it helps to build strong interpersonal skills and can also help you find a job. The best colleges in India will have a strong focus on developing networking. You can build your networking skills by joining a club, attending conferences, undertaking a study programme abroad or even doing internships.

Professionalism

Making the transition from college life to work life can be challenging for new recruits. This is why imbibing some level of professionalism while still in college can help ease the transition. Professionalism includes the way one conducts themselves in a professional workplace. This means everything – from having the right attitude to dressing well and interacting with colleagues and clients alike. It helps create a more respectful workplace, improve interactions with business partners and reduce conflict. Professionalism can be learnt from college professors as well as classmates. Students must focus on honing their interview skills, learning to dress professionally and conducting themselves in an office.

Leadership and teamwork

Leadership is imperative to inculcate at the college level. It includes being patient, decisive, and a team-builder. You can develop your leadership skills by undertaking leadership roles as part of model UN, student government and community groups. You will practise leading a team, teaching, giving constructive criticism, resolving conflicts and delegating tasks.

While leadership is a great quality to have, it cannot be pursued at the cost of learning teamwork. Imbibing a team spirit can help you increase the productivity of your organisation and make the most of each individual’s unique talents. This way each member can bring to the table their own perspectives and personalities. Teamwork is a skill that can be achieved in college by participating in group projects, student organisations, playing sports or even socialising.

Work ethic

Having a good work ethic involves being professional, respectful, responsible, determined and accountable. Having these qualities improves your chances of getting a job as most employers look for hardworking and conscientious individuals to hire. You can inculcate a work ethic by focusing on your studies and working towards acing all your examinations.

Digital savviness

While digital literacy was a necessary skill to have until a few years ago, today, it is necessary for each student to hone their social media skills. Not only should you work on your computer skills like typing and email management, but also learn enough about the various types of software to be able to use them efficiently when required on your job.

Conclusion

There are different types of skills for students to learn during their time in college. These can help them ace their higher studies as well as their jobs. Students should give thought to their well-rounded education by focusing on their studies and aiding them with soft skills. There are many ways to do it by incorporating some extra-curricular activities such as joining clubs and societies, dabbling into summer programmes, volunteering work, taking up sports, travelling and studying abroad. This is imperative for each student to make the most out of their experience in colleges in India. 

FAQs

What skills do you develop in college?

Along with your education, you should develop a range of soft skills while in college like time management, communication, networking, professionalism, leadership, teamwork, and work ethic.

Which skills will be the most helpful in college?

While you are in college, some of the most helpful skills to have include reading stamina, time management, networking, balancing personal and academic life and writing. 

What basic life skills do you learn in college?

One learns life skills like time management, communication, networking, professionalism, leadership, teamwork, work ethic, and socialising while they are in college.

About Sunstone

Sunstone is a leading higher education services provider that works with academic institutions in upskilling students for employability. Sunstone offers career-oriented training interventions for undergraduate and postgraduate students at 40+ institutions across 30+ cities.

Sunstone’s training programs are industry-endorsed to enhance employability. These programs are designed for hybrid delivery with an unparalleled focus on soft skills and personality development. Sunstone’s focus is to provide students with a holistic educational experience.