My engineering first year was terrible.Poor CGPA around 6.5. Does that affect my future in an adverse way? Does first year matter a lot for MS or during job placements?
Yes, it will hurt you from obtaining jobs at top companies if you obtain average grades for the rest of your academic career. It will definitely hurt you when looking for internships for your first and second year. Typically, internships for first year and second year students are pretty much awarded to students with high GPAs since you don't have too much experience. Unfortunately, your first year will be a scar that will be holding you back from many opportunities, but don't give up. My advice: Make sure you do something you are passionate about that can convince the employers to look past your GPA. Get much better grades later; don't slip up in any class. As for grad school, it will be difficult, but if you're able to get awesome grades for all future semesters, then you still have a good shot. From now on, you need to prove to everyone that you are the comeback kid. Good luck.
How do I live a meaningful and productive college life?
Very interesting question.I am currently into my 3rd year of University. I can give you some piece of advice the things I do and follow.Involvement: Get involved into the community, this can be done through joining some organizations or clubs on campus. Its a great way to meet new people and make friends.Volunteer: Volunteer is a great way to learn new things. Look around your college or within your college some non-profit organizations. Speaking from a personal point of view, volunteer helped me to get a job on campus during my first year.Work: Try to look for a part time job on campus. As I mentioned above, volunteer is a great start and excellent way to end up finding job.Connections: Networking is absolutely important. By following Step 2 and 3 you will have an opportunity to meet new people and make connections.Explore: Try to explore you neighborhood and campus as much as you can. Don’t be shy, go around and say “Hi” to people.Hope this helps! Good Luck :)