First Day of Class Tips for Success

As we begin another fall semester at the University Center, we would like to share a few tips for success with you.  Please consider implementing these and asking for assistance if you need it.  We are committed to your academic success and will do all we can to help you!  Have a great 2012-2013 academic year!!

• Know why you chose to go to school:  What are your goals?  If your goal is to take a class just to gain knowledge, then you will be better off to take a community education class that doesn't require grading and homework.  If your goal is to obtain a degree, having a clear idea  of what you want to achieve, reaching your goal will be much easier.
• Define your priorities:  If you want to succeed in college, you need to determine what is the most important to you.  Some students had low grades or failed because football came before homework.  Movies came before homework.  Traveling came before homework.  Procrastination only hurts you as a student and shows that you are not serious about your education.
• Set attainable goals:  Pick realistic goals and focus on accomplishing them.  Every success will give you more confidence to tackle your next goal.  If you can only manage to fit one business class into your busy schedule, for example, then just take one class and give it your full attention.  When a goal seems big and daunting, one of the smartest places to start is to break it into different pieces that will build toward the goal.  When you break it into smaller bits, each bit is more manageable.
• Time Management:  Managing your time is essential to succeeding in college.  Each class requires approximately 2 hours of study time outside of class per hour spent in class.  A time management tool such as a day planner is great for time management.  You can use a calendar, notebook or anything that works to help you track your time.  Time blocks can be designated for studying, homework, research, work, family time, errands, and a multitude of activities.  Balancing school and life isn't easy but it can be manageable.
• Attendance:  Class attendance is critical to your success because it is a supplement to your textbook and other course material.  Attendance affects your grade, and missing class when it is not due to illness or other extenuating circumstances is self-defeating.
• Homework:  College classes are taught at a very fast pace.  A math class that takes all year in high school is taught in one term in college.  Planning your homework and working ahead when possible are things that will help keep you on track.  Know when your assignments are due, and don't procrastinate.  Writing a term paper the day it is due almost always guarantees a low grade because your concentration is on getting the paper done, and things such as facts, citations, spelling and grammar errors are often overlooked.
• Have a personal investment in your education:  Ask questions and get involved in class discussions.  Learn your instructor's teaching style, expectations, and preferences for assignments.  If you don't understand something, meet with your instructor after class or schedule office time to go over what you need help with.  If you are getting low grades, seek tutoring.
• You are responsible for your education:  College provides a learning environment to students who want to learn, but it is up to you to go to class, seek help, study and ask questions.  Your investment in your education is what determines your return so make the best of it.  Think of it as money in the bank; the more you put in, the bigger return you receive.
• Care for yourself:  You're going to need to be healthy to succeed, so eat well, drink lots of water and get enough sleep.  Exercise is the best stress reliever of all.  If you can, ride a stationary bike while reading or discuss with a classmate while you walk together.
• Take breaks when you need them:  Going to school is a big commitment.  Feel yourself getting overwhelmed?  Give yourself permission to take a break.  That might mean closing the books, going for a quick walk, or taking a night off from studying altogether.  If you find yourself burning the midnight oil for weeks on end, work some down time into your schedule.  It's important to plan time to relax or you become less effective.
• Stick with it, don't give up:  College changes your life.  You will have good times and difficult times and the rewards are greater than the sacrifices.  The college experience is unforgettable;  it is a time to learn and try new things, meet new people and make new friends.  It takes persistence, commitment and dedication to get through college but you can do it.  Use your support systems to help you through the rough times, and don't give up.  When you make it through, celebrate your success and make a toast to your future.

Good luck on your fall 2012 semester!  Let us know if we can help you in any way!