Super Seniors: Make the Most of Your Fifth Year

Are you on the five year plan for college? Don't worry-being a super senior in college doesn't necessarily mean that you are a huge slacker. With increased requirements in many professional undergraduate programs, it comes as little surprise that so many students are struggling to get out of school in four years or less. Graduating late can be a bummer, but there can be unexpected benefits to going the route of the five year plan. Super seniors should strive to get the most they can out of their extra semester or semesters.

Get an internship

If you haven't already been an intern, you should consider getting an internship as a super senior. Internships provide excellent work experience, networking opportunities, and for some lucky super seniors, an extra source of income. This is an especially attractive option for second year seniors who only need one or two more classes to graduate, since they'll have more time to devote to making a good impression at internship sites. Most college programs will allow second year seniors to use internships for earning college credits.

Start Applying for Jobs or Grad School

Some super seniors worry about being behind in the job market after graduating late. These fears are exacerbated by the current state of the economy, in which recent grads especially struggle to find a job. Since any student (not just those on the five year plan) will have to fill out dozens of applications upon graduating, it might help to get an early start while you're still in school. Second year seniors hoping to attend grad school should concentrate on getting those grad school applications in. It is better to start early on grad school applications, the ideal time being the summer after your first senior year.

Think About Adding an Extra Major or Minor

If you already know that you'll be on the five year plan (or six year plan!) you may want to consider adding an another major or minor if you are somewhat close to meeting the needed requirements. Having an additional major or minor can be extremely helpful for super seniors looking for employment. Employers like to see applicants who have diverse talents, and an extra major is an excellent way to show that you meet that profile. This is also a great option for those who wish to explore a new area. Many five year plan students graduate as super seniors with one major in a more practical field (such as business or economics) and one in a field of interest (like music or art history). This helps ensure finding a job later, but also allows super seniors to take classes in subjects that interest them.