Whether you're in your first or final year, it's important to consider how you can make the most of your university experience and have it pay off in the future.

Everyone around you is studying for a degree of some-kind. Sometimes a degree on it's own just isn't enough, so how can you differentiate yourself from other students and graduates?

Online courses

Throughout my time at University I've taken part in several online courses. The availability of these might depend on the types of courses you do, but some great places to start can include:

• LinkedIn Learning
• Future Learn
• HubSpot Academy

Engage in your classes

A lot of students overlook the importance of attendance and engagement. Talking to your lectures helps you stand out in class and often means they'll be the first to come to you with any opportunities they might have. Previously I've been offered work experience by my lectures or people that they're connected with in industry... but these opportunities won't find you if your lectures don't know you enough!

Work experience

Work experience is one of the best ways to stand out, some courses have work experience as mandatory or voluntary modules within the course, some great ways to gain work experience can be through:

• Placement years
• Internships
• University job boards

Awards

Checking to see if your university offers any additional awards or certifications that you can take part in can also be a great way to help you stand out! I participated in my university's employability award. It provided me so many useful skills as well as great talking points on my CV and during job interviews!