Success in College

10 Simple Tips

  1. Organize your life.

    Purchase a planner and use it to keep a schedule of what you need to do and when you need to do it. There is more time in a given day than you may think. The key is being able to manage it well. It is possible to work, socialize, and get good grades if you use your time effectively.

  2. Locate and use effective study areas.

    If you can't study in your room, then don't go there when you need to get work done. Find a quiet area in the library or some other location and visit that place regularly. Commit yourself to using your study area(s) at specified times throughout the week.

  3. Consider the big picture.

    Every class you take can offer you something and each is a meaningful part of your academic career. Your degree isn't as far away as it may seem. Remind yourself of why you are in college and realize that every class you take is worth your best effort.

  4. Don't miss class.

    The single most important factor in getting good grades is attending class. Listen carefully and attentively to what the professor is saying. It's not important to write down every word that he or she says. Actively listen for the key concepts and their supporting details and outline them in your notebook in an organized fashion.

  5. Get to know your professors.

    Sit where you can see and hear your professors and where they can see and hear you. Don't be afraid to ask questions when you have them. Most importantly, let your professors know that you are interested in their classes and interested in doing well. This is most easily achieved by speaking with your professors after class or during their office hours.

  6. Complete all assignments on time.

    Don't get behind in your studies. Every assignment, whether it's reading a chapter, writing a paper, or working out some math problems, is worth doing. Missed homework assignments, and even those that are handed in late, can have damaging effects on your grades. Commit yourself to completing all of your assignments before their due dates or before additional assignments are given.

  7. Get help immediately whenever you need it.

    Always attempt to complete your homework on your won first. However, if you become confused or find an assignment too difficult, don't hesitate to seek help. Studying with other students in your class can be an excellent way to share information and ideas. You can also gain valuable insight from your professor by going to his or her office hours. the best way to alleviate your confusion, however, might be to receive personal tutoring from a person in the Learning Center.

  8. Be aware that good study skills are necessary for college success.

    Sadly, it is possible to study for a long period of time, but to not get very much from your effort. If you wish to get the most out of the time you put into studying, it makes sense to employ specific strategies for studying more effectively. Reading textbooks, taking notes, and preparing for exams can all be made easier through the knowledge and use of good study skills. Seek help at the Learning Center if you believe that your study skills need improvement.

  9. Don't procrastinate.

    You can never perform your best work if you wait until the last minute to begin it. To write a good paper, you must first write a rough draft. This rough draft can be reviewed by Writing Center staff and revised, perhaps several times, before it takes its final form and is handed in. To properly prepare for a test, it is best to review the material many times over the course of the weeks prior to the exam. Students who attempt to cram on the night before the exam never do as well as those who dedicate themselves to studying for a reasonable amount of time each day.

  10. Use all of your resources.

    For many students, support from the University can be one of the most necessary components for academic success and personal happiness. Students who are more involved with the University and who develop more meaningful relationships with members of the University community tend to be more successful over their college careers. The first priority of every University employee is to serve students. Make as many staff and faculty contacts as necessary to achieve your goals and satisfy your needs. See your academic adviser regularly so that he or she can answer your questions, monitor your progress, and help you succeed.