If you’re still reading this, you might be thinking, “What do you mean, ‘read in college’? I already have to read books for research papers, and even then I don’t even finish those books!”
When I was in college, my mom told me that I should start reading for fun and I laughed at her. Now, I can’t put a book down. As a college student, you only have so many hours in the day to eat, sleep, study, and have a social life. If you can finish at least one of these books, I will be satisfied. I promise you, these books are life changing. They made me realize many things about how the real world works, but the most important lesson I learned is that not all reading is torture.
- What Color is Your Parachute– A practical guide for job seekers. It’s updated every year, so you don’t necessarily need the latest edition, although it is pretty useful.
- F**k It– This is my favorite book hands down. I first started reading this book because of the title, but now I reread it multiple times a year because of the empowering lessons about the way society works. Read this book before you read any other book.
- The Simple Art of Greatness– Find out how CEOs think. If you’re prepared for the way successful leaders approach business, then you as an employee will be their best resource. There are also really great one-liners in here, too.
- Freakonomics– Learn what motivates people and how trends in society are connected. I quote this book daily.
- Eat, Pray, Love– This book is for the ladies, although fellas might find the “pray” section helpful, too. This book is all about one woman’s journey from depression to self-satisfaction across 3 continents. This book inspired me to find my inner peace through meditation (sitting on my yoga mat and day dreaming).
- Getting To Yes– Learn the art of negotiation. Get what you want in life without sacrificing your beliefs. This teaches you the art of psychological warfare, something that not many people can master.
- AP Styleguide– For the love of your future job, please learn grammar and spelling. Some people think that they won’t need to know all the intricacies of the English language because their job doesn’t require it. Newsflash: people (employers, relatives, professors, etc.) immediately discredit you when they see a grammar or spelling mistake. You went to college right? Write like it.
- The Tipping Point– Find out why little things can make a huge difference. Learn how trends are sparked and gain momentum. This book offers great insight into society as well.
- The Importance of Being Ernest– This is a great read if you have a little downtime. This short play is lighthearted, humorous, and ridiculous. As with most things, it is better to read the play before seeing the movie. Happy Bunburying!
Looking for more books to read over summer? Have any other favorites that you don’t see on this list? Share ‘em with us!
Flashnotes 