Discover the 6 Keys to College Success
College can be a very exciting and nerve-wracking time – new friends, new experiences, and the unknown. Don’t fret, whether you’re a Freshman or a Senior, these six tips will help guide you through roommates, studying, exams, and more!
1. In the Classroom
• Read the syllabus – it will include your professor’s office hours, the best way to contact them, the testing schedule, and other pertinent information you need for class. Always pay attention to how your professor structures the class because each professor is different than the next.
• Take Notes!
It may seem like a no-brainer, but taking notes is one of the best ways to get good grades. Clear, concise notes are more effective than long, complicated notes. Even better, get the QuickStudy Notebook that combines a notebook and study guide in one – your ultimate study essentials.
• Be a good listener
During lectures sit near the front of the class to avoid distractions, and if there is something you don’t understand, ASK! There are probably other students in the class with the same question who are too shy to raise their hand. Be fearless – raise your hand and clear up any confusion you may have.
• Make sure your professor knows your name.
Putting a face with a name will be a big help, especially if your grade is borderline.
2. Study Strategies
STUDY! This may be a case of stating the obvious, but you would be surprised how many students don’t bother.
• Do not study for more than 2 hours at a time
• Use the 30-3-2 Schedule
– Study for 30 minutes
– Take a three-minute break; let the break be a time to think about other things.
– Upon returning, take an extra two minutes to mentally review what you have just read and do a quick preview of what is coming up next.
Get a calendar or planner and write down the due dates of papers, exams, midterms, and any other important dates.
• Review the planner every week, it will help to ensure you stay on top of your course load.
4. Taking Exams
• Learn the exam format: e.g. objective (true/false or multiple choice) or subjective (essay) – these can be found on the syllabus or at the exam review.
• Review course outline, notes, and study materials, like QuickStudy study guides.
• Review previous tests; you may receive these during the exam review or check at with your professor for past examples.
5. Dorm Room Do’s and Don’ts
• Resident Assistants are a valuable resource; be sure to maintain open communication with your RA.
• Clean up after yourself: Avoid roommate problems and bug infestation.
• Lock your doors – even when you are in your room! You’re better safe than sorry.
• Get involved in residence life. Many activities are held on campus for student residents like BBQs, trivia nights, coffee discussions, charity drives, and fun parties. No matter what your interests are there is sure to be something to get involved in.
• If your school allows cooking in the dorm: Check to see which appliances are permitted for dorm use.
6. Registration & Advisement
• Avoid long lines and high frustration levels; use telephone or computer registration whenever possible.
• Select classes based on your own academic capabilities; for example, if science is not your forte, don’t take biology and chemistry in the same semester.
• Visit your advisor on a regular basis to make sure you are on track with your academic program, courses, etc.
• Pay attention to Deadlines! If you miss one, it could cost you – not just money but grades as well.
This is your time to figure out who you are, what’s important to you as an individual, and develop your interpersonal skills. The more you pay attention and get involved the better your college years will be. If you want even more tips on college success, download our free Keys to College Success guide.