2 answers
Lydia
Student
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
1
Question
Updated
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What can I do to help myself stand out among other students in college?
Please share your experience, thoughts, or what has worked for you!
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2 answers
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Lydia. There are several things you can do to make yourself stand out and be noticed, both by your professors and potential employers. Here are some things that worked for me, along with tips that can help you stand out too.
One of the best ways to stand out is by getting involved in activities outside of class. This could mean joining student organizations, volunteering, or taking part in an internship or part-time job. Being active outside the classroom shows that you have initiative and can balance multiple commitments.
Another way to stand out is by building relationships with your professors. Networking isn't just for finding jobs later, it's also important for your academic success. If you get to know your professors, they can give you advice and even recommend you for opportunities like internships or research positions. I made sure to attend office hours, not just when I needed help, but also to discuss my ideas and career goals. This made it easier for me to connect with professors, and when I needed letters of recommendation, they knew me well enough to write strong ones.
In addition to doing well in your classes, try to take on projects that go beyond what's required. This could be something like researching a topic you're interested in or creating something that aligns with your major. For example, I started a small website to write educational articles. It wasn't a class project, but having something extra to show can set you apart from other students.
Also, try to develop skills that make you unique. Having a special skill can make you stand out when it comes time to apply for jobs. For example, learning a second language, mastering a program that's important for your field, or gaining technical skills can give you an advantage.
One of the best ways to stand out is by getting involved in activities outside of class. This could mean joining student organizations, volunteering, or taking part in an internship or part-time job. Being active outside the classroom shows that you have initiative and can balance multiple commitments.
Another way to stand out is by building relationships with your professors. Networking isn't just for finding jobs later, it's also important for your academic success. If you get to know your professors, they can give you advice and even recommend you for opportunities like internships or research positions. I made sure to attend office hours, not just when I needed help, but also to discuss my ideas and career goals. This made it easier for me to connect with professors, and when I needed letters of recommendation, they knew me well enough to write strong ones.
In addition to doing well in your classes, try to take on projects that go beyond what's required. This could be something like researching a topic you're interested in or creating something that aligns with your major. For example, I started a small website to write educational articles. It wasn't a class project, but having something extra to show can set you apart from other students.
Also, try to develop skills that make you unique. Having a special skill can make you stand out when it comes time to apply for jobs. For example, learning a second language, mastering a program that's important for your field, or gaining technical skills can give you an advantage.
Yasmin Mohamed Alamin
Clinical Nutrition Student
63
Answers
Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
Updated
Yasmin’s Answer
Hi Lydia👋🏻..
When I first started college, I kept wondering how some students just seemed to “stand out.” Over time, I realized it wasn’t about being the loudest or having the longest list of activities. The people who really stood out were the ones who did one thing with intention and consistency.
One student I met wasn’t involved in ten clubs, just one research project. But she showed up, asked questions, helped others, and took small responsibilities seriously. Professors remembered her, opportunities found her, and she built a reputation just by being reliable and curious.
Another friend stood out simply because he would introduce himself to professors after class, ask one thoughtful question, and follow up later. That small habit opened doors for internships and strong recommendation letters.
Here’s what I learned:
You stand out when you pick something you care about, commit to it, and show genuine curiosity. People notice consistency way more than perfection.
College isn’t about being everywhere. It’s about being present where you choose to be.
When I first started college, I kept wondering how some students just seemed to “stand out.” Over time, I realized it wasn’t about being the loudest or having the longest list of activities. The people who really stood out were the ones who did one thing with intention and consistency.
One student I met wasn’t involved in ten clubs, just one research project. But she showed up, asked questions, helped others, and took small responsibilities seriously. Professors remembered her, opportunities found her, and she built a reputation just by being reliable and curious.
Another friend stood out simply because he would introduce himself to professors after class, ask one thoughtful question, and follow up later. That small habit opened doors for internships and strong recommendation letters.
Here’s what I learned:
You stand out when you pick something you care about, commit to it, and show genuine curiosity. People notice consistency way more than perfection.
College isn’t about being everywhere. It’s about being present where you choose to be.