You know what they say: All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.

You've successfully been accepted at a university and you see yourself as one their prodigious graduates in the next four — or five — years, depending on your degree program. Medical students are the exceptions, but it wouldn't hurt for them to get out there and play a little. What you also should be interested in are the extra-curricular activities that come with. Not only will you expand your social circle; making new friends and all, but you'll also open yourself to human interaction that you're not familiar with. You'll get to meet important people, who may or may not be of use later. You get to market yourself, and you might even end up securing a possible employer.

You never know what might happen.

Here's what I think are the five things university students should participate in.


1. Model United Nations.

Model United Nations have been causing quite the buzz. Every university has a MUN of their own. You can participate in your own, and attend some other institute's as well. A MUN is basically a simulation of the United Nations. The objective of a MUN is to replicate, as best as possible, the atmosphere of meetings conducted at the UN. Delegates are expected to appear in formal attire, and are expected to articulately participate in the debates that are sometimes spontaneous, and otherwise rehearsed.

MUNs are a must for first years and those who wish to be public speakers or are even considering politics to be there professional medium. It will definitely increase your confidence level and you'll have an amazing time interacting with like minded individuals and will learn a lot. 


2. Olympiads.

These mini competitions are also what makes up your university experience complete. Once again, each university has an Olympiad of its own; you can attend others, too. These competitions are meant to bring out young talent, and also serves as a social escapade for all. The competitions are categorized into general events, technical events, and gaming events. There is a cash prize system that lures most of the audience. There are social events, too, which are meant to provide relief to a long day spent at an institute. These Olympiads usually last two days; with the end of the second day being the prize distribution ceremony.

Why should you attend an Olympiad? That's easy. If you've experience or talent that needs showcasing, these Olympiads are the perfect spot for you to let it all out.


3. Workshops.

These are rather dull. But, informative. You can attend workshops of your liking to gain additional knowledge in the relevant subject matter. You can add the experience to your resume. After you've attended enough workshops, you can conduct one of your own. This venture is more suited to business majors and entrepreneurs. But, there are workshops for writers, for medical and engineering students. There are open mic nights. Anyone can benefit from them.

The silver lining on this dull, dull cloud is that you're exposed to professionals. You might learn from them and then implement that knowledge into your own professional life.


4. Alumni Dinners.

Finally; something that suits everybody's taste. Alumni dinners, welcome and farewell parties are what everyone roots for. Set by a rather formal ambiance, these dinners are just like wedding ceremonies. You get to play dress up and then you get to eat. Pass outs can meet up with their friends and teachers, while the one's studying get to meet their seniors in a friendly environment. It's like a family bonding kind of thing. I've never been to an alumni dinner, neither to a welcome party. But, it's not hard to guess at what the proceedings might be like.

To sum this up in a few words, these dinners and parties are actually a social affair.


5. Recruitment Drives.

Last, but not the least, is this recently emerging concept of recruitment drives. Apparently, entrepreneurs are everywhere. Some organizations are just beginners, some are not; you'll be able to tell their worth by verbal interaction. What these organizations want is new recruits. Youngsters and teens who can help them flourish. They call for writers, photographers, good communicators, designers. You can think of your experience here as internships. Some even are; you get awarded certificates at the end.

If you want to groom yourself for better job prospects and being part of a change that may or may not happen, you need to sign up for these recruitment opportunities and see how much skills you've got and how much you need.

When all's been said and done, I'll say only this: these five things are really worth your time and money.