Take a moment to think about Google, the search engine giant that dominates the digital world. Now, where is Bing from Microsoft? What about Yahoo and many other search engines which I believe you don't even know they exist. If you take a closer look you will come to see that Google stands out only because it delivers what people need—and they do this quickly, accurately, and efficiently—Google is not just another search engine; it's the search engine.
Okay, now let us consider cities. If I were to establish an innovative business, I would prefer to do that in Dar es Salaam. Why? Because it's a well-established city that offers everything I need to survive.
All these are not just random choices—we do this because we believe from them, we will get something special, something unique, that others simply can't provide.
Now, let us apply this concept to college students:
Every year, countless students graduate with the same degrees across every sector. We're all heading toward the same goal—securing job opportunities or starting businesses. But here's the catch: only the ones who bring something different to the table will stand out.
Like how Google dominates the search engine market by being the best at delivering results, you must aim to dominate your field by offering something better and unique—and that's how you will survive.
But right now, most of us do pass through the same "college assembly line." The system which produces graduates who are more identical—as we do learn from the same slides that were also used by other students five years ago, following the same patterns of studying, and viewing the world as how our peers "think" it is.
At the end, when everyone comes out of college, we become the same "product,"—how can you stand out?
The key to setting yourself apart is to step off the standard assembly line and create your own.
Instead of just reading notes provided by your lecturers or sticking to what's prescribed, take ownership of your education and growth. Here's how:
Explore Beyond the Curriculum: Dive into topics and skills that interest you, even if they're outside your field of study. Try to get exposed to different ideas—the necessary tool to escape the conventional mindset of most college students.
Build Unique Skills: Learn something new every day—coding, public speaking, graphic design, or whatever sparks your curiosity. These skills will make you adaptable and ready to grab opportunities others might miss.
Expose Yourself to New Experiences: Internships, volunteering, attending workshops, or networking events. These experiences are like a personal "upgrade" that sets you apart from your peers.
Use College as a Launchpad: Don't just study for exams; use your time in college to test your ideas, build projects, and connect with people who can help you grow.
Just like Google stands out in the search engine market, you need to stand out in your field. Don't be a replica of what the "old college assembly line" produces. Create your own path, refine your abilities, and build yourself into someone who brings something truly unique to the table.
The result? You'll increase your chances of success and position yourself as the one who wins—not just in college, but in life.
So, ask yourself: What's unique about you? Whatever it is, nurture it, improve it, and let it be your chance to rise.
#moreExposure #buildUpSkills #TryOutThings
