Discover the hidden perks for students: further learning, discounts and networks!
Discover the exciting, often overlooked perks of being a student and find out how to use these opportunities to grow both personally and professionally. Get inspired to make the most of your time at university and learn and experience plenty along the way!
Hidden perks you have as a student that nobody knows about 🎓
Your time at university is a formative phase in anyone’s life. When people think of student life, many picture endless lectures, mountains of material to learn and tight budgets. But did you know that being a student comes with lots of hidden perks? In this article we shine a light on these often overlooked opportunities and show how students can use them to grow both personally and professionally.
Low-cost or free further learning 📚
A significant perk of being a student is the many opportunities for further learning, which often cost little or nothing. Universities regularly offer workshops, courses and talks on a wide range of topics, from soft skills to specialised software and technology. This lets students broaden their knowledge and make their profile more attractive on the job market.
An article by Smith et al. (2017) shows that lifelong learning doesn’t just improve career prospects, it also has a positive effect on mental wellbeing.
Student discounts – more than just savings 💸
Many students know they can get discounts. What’s often overlooked is just how widely these discounts apply. From tech, clothing and books to travel, students can save in almost every area of life. The key is to actively find out which discounts are available and on what terms.
A study by Moore (2018) underlines that financial relief helps lower students’ stress levels, which in turn can have a positive effect on academic performance.
Access to exclusive networks 🤝
Universities and colleges are hubs for networks. As a student you have the chance to build a wide social and professional network. Many universities offer alumni programmes, networking events and platforms that make it easier to reach industry experts, mentors and potential employers.
According to Brown et al. (2010), social networks are crucial for career progression. Networking early can open doors that would otherwise stay closed.
More ways to build your personal brand 🚀
Thanks to digitalisation, students today have more opportunities than ever to shape and present their personal brand. Platforms like LinkedIn, personal blogs or online portfolios make your skills and achievements visible. This matters especially because employers increasingly check online profiles to get a picture of potential applicants.
According to research by Peters et al. (2018), a well-maintained online image can considerably increase your chances of getting a job interview.
Flexibility and room to be creative 🎨
Another perk of student life is the flexibility it offers. Compared with a full-time job, students often have a more flexible schedule that lets them pursue different interests and bring creative projects to life. Whether it’s founding a start-up, starting an art project or simply discovering new hobbies, as a student every door is open to you.
Research by Taylor et al. (2013) shows that creative activities don’t just build personal skills, they also contribute to problem-solving ability and capacity for innovation.
International study and travel opportunities 🌍
Globalisation and international cooperation between universities have led to a wide range of exchange programmes. Students have the chance to spend a semester or more abroad. An exchange like this doesn’t just improve your language skills, it also enriches your personal development and builds intercultural competence.
Research by Chen et al. (2013) shows that experience abroad increases employability and encourages cultural exchange.
Working from anywhere 💻
With a growing number of remote jobs and internships, students can gain valuable work experience during their studies without being tied to one place. This way of working also builds self-reliance and time management.
Studies by Anderson et al. (2021) show that employees who gain early experience of remote work are better prepared for an increasingly digital world of work.
Conclusion – use your perks!
Student life holds plenty of hidden perks that go far beyond the classic lecture hall. By recognising and using these opportunities, you can make the most of your time at university and develop both academically and personally. Let’s not forget that education doesn’t only happen in books and lectures, but in the variety of experiences available to you as a student.
Make use of these hidden perks and pave the way to a promising future!
