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When entering university, first-year students are taught to work for the best possible grade-point-average and take classes seriously – often in preparation for jobs as doctors, lawyers, accountants and so on. In some ways, this is good advice; earning a high average and excelling in studies can be valuable in the long term. As a first-year student, for example, we were set on earning major scholarships like the Rhodes, though it became apparent over several years that doing remarkable things in life requires qualities and skills that extend far beyond academic success. Contrary to popular belief, some of the most interesting and accomplished people followed unconventional paths during university studies.

Now leading a fast-growing company, we hope to provide some perspective on the skills students should develop in order to make the most out of their experiences. Yes, some of these skills can be developed in the classroom; however, many are acquired through unexpected – and in some cases, unbelievable – circumstances.

1. Learn how to ask for what you want, and don't be afraid to do so: Universities and colleges provide opportunities for students to step up and serve on associations, boards, committees and hundreds of student clubs. Often times, these positions go unfilled, or largely uncontested. Representing 30,000 undergraduate students might seem daunting, but the experience can be well worth it. And when you enter life following graduation, it's the ability to ask that sets many people apart, whether it's negotiating a better deal or earning a promotion. Ask and receive now, and you'll likely be asked for more later.

2. One-on-one relationships make all the difference: In some classes, the difference between a B and A – is knowing the professor, having spent time in their office getting to know their research, their interests and so on. Students who go the extra mile and invest time into these relationships can see significant pay-offs. In entrepreneurship, politics and other sectors, the relationships are truly what count, and the same principles that contribute to attending professors' office hours are what help you take leaps and bounds forward because you "know the right people."

3. Those gruelling late-night study sessions matter: We've all had those terrible days and evenings where three essays are due and it seems like an all-nighter will be spent writing 4000+ words on our laptops. However, in most cases, we somehow find a way to complete the essays and assignments on time. This ability to follow through and complete projects, defying one's own expectations, is an asset post-graduation.

4. Go out and learn how to small talk over drinks: Going to the local campus bar might not seem worth it, especially considering an exhausting number of lectures to attend and assignments to complete. However, it's surprising how many deals are completed and relationships formed over drinks following work. During university, you have four years to learn how to feel comfortable and then thrive in these environments. In our experience, more business has been done over a casual beer than in a boardroom setting.

5. Travel and immerse yourself in new cultures: Some of our best experiences in university took place travelling across Europe in an eight-day Red Bull competition, or presenting research in places like Germany. These travels are avenues into better understanding new cultures, which is beneficial considering how the world is becoming more globalized and interconnected. Stepping out of your comfort zone may help you discover what really makes you comfortable and confident.

6. "Don't sell, listen, understand": One of the key lessons we learned during university took place during fall recruitment season for new clubs. It is during these times that students can learn how to most effectively recruit someone into a new team, first listening and understanding their needs – and then tailoring a "pitch" to this – as opposed to telling someone why they should join. Listen then sell.

7. Know how to clearly articulate an idea – in one sentence: Your professors who talk endlessly about writing a concise thesis statement, with a clear position and supporting reasons – are right. In many situations, you must be able to share an idea with someone during a 15-second elevator ride. It's this ability to articulate an idea that gets your foot in the door, earning you a longer conversation so that you can advance a project. If you can't explain something to your 5-year-old nephew, you don't understand it well enough.

8. Surround yourself with incredible people of diverse interests: There are few places in the world as rich in ideas and life as universities. During four years on campus, there is ample opportunity to meet students and professors across many disciplines, building both friends and a "personal advisory board" that will serve you well much later into life. Value every connection and look to learn every day.

9. Never slow down – small successes lead to more successes: Sometimes, students who are feeling unfulfilled and on the verge of dropping out are the ones who become student association executives just one year later in university. One year is a very long time. It's always amazing to see how a few small wins builds tremendous momentum in someone's life. University is an ideal place to build these small wins and develop the confidence needed to succeed wherever you go. Don't quit and don't slow down. As entrepreneur and Singularity University Managing Director Pascal Finette says every day: Always run. Never walk.

Eric Termuende is one of Canada's delegates at the G20 Young Entrepreneurs Alliance Summit. Kirsten Poon is past City of Edmonton Youth Council Chair and co-founder of Literacy Without Borders. Emerson Csorba is a Cambridge Trust Scholar. They are all directors at Gen Y Inc.

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