Making the most of university life

You only spend a few years of your life at university so it is important to get as much out of the experience as you can.

Make the most your time at university, be brave, be adventurous, make your mark and, most importantly, make the most of every opportunity.

Here are a few opportunities worth looking out for:

Guest lecturer events

They are a fantastic way of learning about job opportunities, often demonstrating many roles you would normally associate with that company. They are an opportunity to put questions to those in the know, making them key networking opportunities. You may need to pre-register in advance to secure your place. Even if the subject matter might not quite what you're looking for, it's worth giving it go; you never know who you might meet.

Networking evenings

To get ahead not only do you have to have the knowledge, you need the people skills as well. Many career opportunities come about through word of mouth or being in the right place at the right time. You can find out about internships or graduate jobs and also meet people just like you who are looking for the perfect way to kick start their career.

Sometimes companies or professional organisations hold these networking evenings offering the chance of further training, study or extra-curricular activities.

Societies and clubs

University societies are not necessarily the domain of the nerd. Each university offers a range of societies from department societies which organise company presentation evenings and department social events, to societies of common interest. These roles will give you organisation skills, networking skills and an important aspect of student life - time management skills; all of which are highly transferable to any workplace. Arguing in a debating contest or a board room isn't all that different. You'll also meet like-minded people and have fun while you're making connections that could last a lifetime.

Why not be an entrepreneur and create your own society if you spy a gap in the offerings? It'sd the perfect opportunity to be innovative and daring and lead the way in a proactive and adventurous manner. Not only does this show exceptional drive and spirit but also demonstrates key business skills such as organisation, focus and responsibility. Entrepreneurial drive is at the heart of many business functions. Here at RB we love giving daring ideas a chance.

Student media

They say everybody will be famous for fifteen minutes but there's lots of things you can do behind the scenes. Most universities have an array of student media, from campus magazines to radio and TV stations.

Volunteering

Volunteering is a fantastic way to gain new skills and improve existing ones, while having fun at the same time. Many universities offer a range of student-led activities in the local community. Volunteering can help you feel part of your community, meet new people and can improve your CV. It can provide valuable practical experience and, of course, you're helping others.

If the opportunity comes up to volunteer or work overseas, you should take it. It's a great way to be adventurous and meet new people and learn about how business works in other countries, all essential for an international career.

Careers and work experience fairs

International companies come to universities throughout the year to meet the top graduates. Reckitt Benckiser attends many careers events and open days across the world. They're the perfect opportunity to meet potential employers.

Sporting clubs

It is worth trying out for any sports team you are good at. If you don’t get in, you can often become an honorary member, attend the socials and partake in team practices. You could also participate in inter-university competitions. Sports teams have great social cultures, show team spirit and are a good way of letting off steam when stresses are looming. They also give you a sense of pride as a chance to represent your university, which always looks great on your resumé.