Good grades are very important for your future, whether you decide to work after college or to go to graduate school. However, that does not mean you should be spending all of your time in the library. It is also important to balance your schedule with social and extracurricular activities that you enjoy.

Social and extracurricular activities are a key part of your resume. Employers want to hire team players who can learn quickly. They want employees who are able to motivate and move others, to organize activities, and even to balance their time well. By holding titles such as president of the debate team, director of the play, editor of the paper, or captain of the soccer team, you demonstrate the leadership, organization, and interpersonal skills that are essential to having a successful career.

While clubs and activities are an excellent way to get involved in your college community, you also want to go beyond your campus for volunteer opportunities. Community service is one of the most meaningful things that you can do while you’re in school. It is also a wonderful way to network and build up your resume. There are plenty of young people who need mentors, coaches, and tutors in every community. Participate in park facility clean-ups, help out at a soup kitchen, and raise money for a good cause—every experience may be the source of a conversation or shared interest during a job interview. Take every opportunity as the chance to build your resume and acquire the skills that your employers will be looking for during the hiring process.

Learn how Dr. Cantarella’s book I Can Finish College can help you overcome the obstacles on the path to your degree.