As students begin to settle into a semblance of routine, many find themselves mindlessly going through the motions of college. These students will attend class, do assignments and fulfill their other obligations without ever turning a head.

No student wants to graduate without peers to support them or mentors who remember the student’s time in class well enough to boost them into a common field. In order to avoid this, there are several seemingly simple tips.

Students should always look presentable. College culture has changed a lot, and favors the ‘athleisure’ style sported by most young adults.

Despite the shallowness of it all, appearances speak volumes. Professors are more likely to present opportunities to the student dressed in chino shorts and a button down than the student in Nike sweatpants.

Make a vow to save the athletic clothes until after regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) have passed. Soon, it’ll be a routine.

More important than showing up dressed nicely is showing up on time. A lot of students struggle with punctuality, as do a lot of professionals.

Do not, however, just accept the predestined five-minute late arrival. Make an effort to be on time for every obligation, and progress will surely follow.

After showing up, making use of your time in class, at meetings or other events is imperative. If students simply show up, listen and leave, they are not likely to be remembered.

Professors, bosses and advisors won’t soon forget the student who asked thoughtful, relevant questions and responded actively to the information presented. Lean in, interact and let your presence be felt.

Although students may be participating extensively in a class, there may be other students who are also interacting in other classes.

After teaching several sections, specific classes often blend together in the minds of professors. In order to secure your spot in their mental contact book, visit during office hours. Bring a question, comment or expression of gratitude relating to the most recent lecture, and it’s sure to be received well.

Having a strong presence for class-related functions is important, but UK is a community stretching far beyond academics.

If students are to truly make a name for themselves, they must also be present in other facets of campus life. In order to accomplish this, join organizations and volunteer time. People spend the majority of their time on campus not in the classroom; be a part of that.

Attracting positive attention from surrounding people is a crucial skill to master. Unfortunately, its benefits are easily overlooked. Couple that with the amount of thought and effort it takes to make a positive impression on someone, and it’s not surprising that stand-out students are so rare.

Making a conscious decision to positively impact those surrounding you, however, is a first step that will accomplish much.