1. Join the committee for a society, and not just the ACS – Think outside the box – you might learn something valuable and totally unexpected.

  2. Mentor a younger student – even if it’s just once or twice to offer some words of advice.

  3. Undertake an internship or work experience in your first or second year to give you an idea of what you want to do before you leave university

  4. Get involved in a charity scheme – university is the perfect place to get into the practice of giving back by raising money for a worthwhile cause. Most universities have a Raise and Give (RAG) society where students can get involved in charity work, or you can recruit some friends to help set up your own charity.

  5. Study hard – too many students do not realise the dedication and work it takes to get a good degree until it’s too late. Don’t be a ‘Last Minute Lizzy’, it’s better to be consistent, so you are not working under unnecessary pressure, where you are unlikely to do your best.