Academically your coursework is becoming more advanced and is concentrated on your major.  It is important to find ways to connect with your academic department in order to build references, engage more deeply with your discipline and prepare for your future. Here are some ways to connect with your department:

Teaching Assistant – work with a faculty member as a teaching assistant in a course that you excelled in.

Peer Advisor in Academic Department:  Some departments have peer advisors within the department.  This is a great way to mentor other students and build relationships with faculty.

Honor Societies, Academic Clubs and organizations - find out what professional opportunities your academic department offers…and GET INVOLVED!

Assist faculty in research – seek out opportunities to work with faculty on research

Internship – find an internship in your field of study.

Think about a minor or the possibility of declaring another major.

Think about graduate school or other advanced degrees.  Deadlines for graduate school sneak up VERY quickly and there are often several things you need to do before applying including; gather references, take standardized tests (GRE, GMAT, LSAT, etc.) and complete personal mission statement.  Start planning NOW!

Identify three reference writers.  You will need professional references when you graduate and NOW is the time to begin building those relationships with faculty members, employers from your part-time job, staff members and advisors. 

Study Abroad:  Broaden your horizons and take advantage of the opportunity to live in a new place and learn about a different culture.