DON’T JUST GO TO SCHOOL — DO MORE!

 

DON’T JUST GO TO SCHOOL — DO MORE!

By Comr. Chukwu Abia Chikaodiri|Grassrootsmirro 

“School is not a scam, but going to school and doing nothing beyond the classroom is a disaster in the making.”

 

In today’s fast-changing world, the phrase “Go to school, get good grades, and secure a job” is no longer the golden ticket to success it once was. While education remains a powerful tool, it’s time we stopped seeing school as the final destination and instead view it as a launchpad. A platform to explore, create, innovate, and prepare for the real world that exists beyond lecture halls and examination scripts.

Here’s the raw truth: The degree you’re chasing is only a piece of the puzzle. Employers are no longer hiring certificates—they’re hiring problem solvers, creators, team players, and those who show initiative. So, if you’re a student, this post is your wake-up call:

Don’t Just Go to School. Do These Too:

1. Learn a Skill (or Two, or Three)

You’re studying engineering? Great! But can you design on AutoCAD? Can you write code? Can you repair devices or install software?
You’re studying business? Awesome! But do you know how to design a sales funnel? Can you run social media ads? Can you write copy that converts?

Whether you’re in the arts, sciences, or humanities, relevant skills will set you apart. The world is ruled by skilled people.

Skills make you valuable, even when you have no degree. But a degree without skills? That’s a gamble.

Start here:

• Graphic Design (Canva, CorelDraw, Photoshop)
• Video Editing
• Coding (Python, HTML/CSS, JavaScript)
• Writing (Copywriting, Blogging, Storytelling)
• Data Analysis
• UI/UX Design
• Tailoring, Baking, Photography, or any hands-on skill

2. Attend Seminars, Conferences, and Workshops

Classroom knowledge gives you theory. But real-world exposure comes from interaction. Attend industry-specific events. Participate in debates, student summits, TEDx events, startup pitch competitions, or professional association conferences.

These events do two powerful things:

• They expose you to current trends and opportunities in your field.
• They connect you to mentors, professionals, and collaborators who could open doors for you.

Remember: Your network is often more valuable than your net worth.

3. Build Something, Anything!

This is for the creators. The builders. The thinkers.

You don’t need to wait until you graduate to launch your first idea. Use your time in school as your experimental lab. Write your first book, start a blog, build a website, create an app, launch a product, or organize a campus-wide event. Whatever it is, just create!

Ideas mean nothing until they become something.

If you’re studying computer science, build a working system or software.
If you’re studying education, write a mini eBook or design a better learning method.
If you’re studying agriculture, start a school farm project or an agro-based mini business.

Whatever your course of study, find a way to express it practically.

4. Start a Side Hustle or Passion Project

School gives you time. Use that time wisely. Learn how to monetize what you love. Sell what you know. Teach what you’ve learned.

Can you:

• Sell thrift clothes on Instagram?
• Start a YouTube channel teaching something?
• Offer writing, editing, or translating services?
• Bake or cook and sell to your hostel mates?

All these aren’t just ways to make money, they build your business sense, confidence, and problem-solving ability.

5. Document Your Journey

Start a portfolio, a blog, or a LinkedIn page. Don’t just learn, show your work. Share what you’re doing. Write about what you're learning. Post your designs, projects, thoughts, and skills. You never know who’s watching.

Employers and clients want to see proof. And there’s no better time to start documenting than while you’re still in school.

6. Find a Mentor or Join a Community

You grow faster when you’re part of something bigger than yourself. Look for mentors, older students, lecturers, professionals, alumni. Ask questions. Seek guidance.

Also, plug into communities related to your field. Join tech groups, writers’ hubs, student entrepreneur clubs, or innovation labs. Collaboration often births greatness.

7. Don’t Be Afraid to Fail

This one’s important. Don’t be afraid to try, and fail. School is the best place to fail and learn. Start a business and lose money. Organize an event and flop. Submit a project that doesn’t work. Every failure is a lesson. And these lessons will shape your success in life after school.

Failing while in school is not failure. It’s training.

Lastly: Be More Than a Student

Going to school is a privilege. But don’t waste it being passive. Get involved. Get skilled. Get connected. Build your resume before NYSC. Your future self will thank you.

Don’t just go to school. Go to grow. Go to build. Go to become.

So, as you walk through your campus tomorrow, remind yourself:  "I am not just a student. I am a builder of the future."

SHARE THIS WITH A STUDENT. LET’S RAISE BUILDERS, NOT JUST GRADUATES. 

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