Ten Key Ways to Succeed in College

As you approach your first-year at college, there are things that you can do to ensure success in and out of the classroom. Outlined below are ten basic things that you can do to succeed in college.

• Get Involved. During your orientation program you will learn about the clubs and organizations that you can join on campus. You need to find one or two organizations to join. Joining a club helps you meet people and make friends. If you don't want to join a club or organization, make sure that you attend programs that are offered on your campus. Getting involved with the life outside of the classroom will help you succeed in the classroom.
  
• Go to Class. Many first-year students will make the mistake of cutting classes. You need to go to each class. It will make a big difference with your instructor and with your grade!
  
• Meet Your Academic Advisor. All students will be assigned an Academic Advisor. This person is there to advisor you and to serve as a resource for you. You need to meet him/her. If you do not have this opportunity during your orientation program, call and make an appointment to meet with him/her.
  
• Take Care of Yourself. It is hard to learn, and enjoy college, if you do not feel well. Many first-year students find that they change their eating and sleeping patterns when they go to college. These changes can result in health problems. Remember decisions that you make concerning alcohol, drugs and sex will also impact your health. Learn how to take care of yourself.
  
• Stay in Touch. Remember to stay in touch with your family and friends from home. These people are critical support people for you. Write, e-mail or call them on a regular basis. You will meet new friends and support people at college, but staying in contact with you parents, family members and friends will help you succeed in college.
  
• Use the Library. The library is your friend! Learn how to use it and take advantage of the quiet environment. The library staff can be very helpful in finding information or research that you may need for class.
  
• Limit Your Time on the Internet. Many studies now are showing that college students are spending too much time "surfing the net", e-mailing friends or talking to people in chat rooms. Learning how to manage your time is very important. Make sure that you use your time on the internet well.
  
• Know the College Policies. Make sure that you read and know the policies of the college. As a student, you have agreed to abide by these policies. You can find the policies in the Student Handbook or College Catalogue.
  
• Use Student Services. Many colleges have several offices, departments or centers designed to help students. Most campuses have career planning, personal counseling, academic advising, minority affairs, student activities, health services, housing & residence life, campus ministry, and athletics, as well as many other resources. Use these resources!
  
• Set Priorities. To manage your time in college, you must first set your priorities. Remember that academics come first! Managing your time begins with an honest appraisal of what you want to do.