Estefani Canizales (she/her), America Leon (she/her), Simren Sandhu (she/her), and Monica Flores Tapia (she/her) are the Making Waves Student Advisory Committee members for 2024-25. They are sharing their advice for making the most of your college experience.
College life can feel like an endless grind of classes, assignments, work, and social commitments. But don’t stress — there’s a way to balance it all while still making time for yourself. Here’s advice from the Making Waves Student Advisory Committee to help you crush your goals, avoid burnout, and make the most of your college experience.
1. Balancing school, work, and life: Google Calendar is your BFF
Time management is key to staying on top of things. Use tools like Google Calendar to map out your day and keep track of deadlines, classes, and study blocks. And don’t forget to schedule in breaks — your future self will thank you!
Simren Sandhu (she/her), a first-year student at Harvard, says:
“G-Cal!!! Blocking out my class times and meetings on my Google Calendar helps me know what to expect for the day and manage my time accordingly. To manage my time further, I also block out time to work on assignments or study for tests. Don’t forget to leave yourself time to eat and take care of yourself!”
2. Avoiding burnout: make time for YOU
It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle, but you’re no good to anyone if you’re running on empty. Find small ways to treat yourself, whether that’s a Netflix binge during dinner or a quick coffee hangout with friends. Balance is everything.
Monica Flores Tapia (she/her), a senior at San Jose State University, shares:
“A way to avoid burnout would be to give yourself a day or a couple of hours just for you. This can be with simple things, like watching a show during dinner that you’ve been wanting to see or going out with friends to destress.”
3. Finding internships: stay linked and look local
Your next big break could be one click away. Keep your LinkedIn profile updated and use it to explore opportunities in your career field. Don’t sleep on company websites either — many post internships there first. Pro tip: don’t be afraid to shoot your shot with a cold email introducing yourself to someone at a company you’re interested in learning more about.
America Leon (she/her), a second-year student at Contra Costa College, shares:
“LinkedIn is a helpful resource for finding internships. I receive weekly emails with opportunities related to my field and career interests. Search for local opportunities via Google, explore company websites, or send cold emails to ask about internships or volunteer roles.”
4. Building relationships: don’t be shy
Building relationships can feel awkward, but it pays off. Professors and mentors can open doors you didn’t even know existed — if they know who you are. Make an effort to attend office hours or reach out when you have questions.
Monica advises:
“Go to office hours, even though it’s hard to always find time. Showing up and introducing yourself to professors or mentors makes a huge difference. The more you go or speak to them, the more they’ll remember you, especially in large lecture halls.”
5. Starting the term strong: explore everything
College is your time to figure things out. Don’t feel pressured to have everything figured out on day one. Explore different clubs, internships, and career paths — you never know where they might lead.
America’s advice:
“Try everything! College is a great time to explore different career fields and paths. Take advantage of opportunities that interest you. Have conversations with people in fields that intrigue you. It’s okay if your plans change.”
Final thoughts…
College isn’t just about grades or getting a degree; it’s about growth. Use tools, lean on your network, and make time for yourself along the way. Whether you’re managing a packed schedule or exploring new career opportunities, these tips will help you own your college experience. You’ve got this!
