Getting ready to start college? Whether it is online or in-person, through a university or a community college, these seven tips will set you up for success.
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Majorly unsure of your major?
Well, consider yourself in good company. Many people coming into college do not have the slightest clue on what they want to study. Thankfully, that is where your general electives can come into play. Start off with those and take the time to consider and explore what you are truly passionate about. Also, do not be afraid to switch your major if need be. For instance, if you think you may want to study underwater basket weaving but later on discover that ASMR production suits you better, then make the change. Do not get stuck with a degree for the sake of having a degree.
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Read the syllabus!
You would be surprised at how many students choose to not do this. The syllabus can be your best friend in college. It not only introduces the class, but it also outlines all important assignments, requirements and due dates. Be aware of any upcoming activities in the class so that you can figure ways to best divvy up your time.
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Got a planner?
Whether you use a planner, calendar or notebook, find a reliable place to keep track of all your assignments. This is not only great for ensuring you complete your homework each week, but it also acts as a daily reminder. Pencil in any personal objectives for the week and adjust your schedule as needed. Being mindful of the requirements each week will assist you in completing them in a timely fashion.
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“Hi, professor ______. My name is…”
This is another area where many students fall short. It may sound intimidating to have a one-on-one conversation with a professor, but consider the fact that you are one of many students they come into contact with on a regular basis. Introducing yourself helps the professor remember your name and to separate you from the rest of their students. This may seem counterintuitive, but when it comes to test time these relationships with your professors become valuable. Visit their office hours in the process. They have to provide them so take advantage of them. These simple acts will also become beneficial in moments when you may require a favor from them like a recommendation for a job, scholarship or graduate school.
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Notes are no joke.
Take notes, take notes, take notes. This is not to imply that you should go overboard with the note taking. Better yet, you should consider taking as many notes as you deem useful to your success in that class. Taking notes is not simply writing what the professor says verbatim, but rather they should act as reminders of the important topics covered in class. Jot down any terms or concepts that you are struggling with and feel you need to understand better. Adopt better note-taking skills so that come test time you can utilize these notes as study guides.
Related: Get organized as an online student.
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Friends…
…is more than a television show. Regardless of the institution you attend, it is always nice to have people to talk to or ask questions. This goes beyond your normal friend group.
Communicate with your classmates and get to know them on a more personal level. You don’t have to add them on social media, but it is beneficial to have a few people in your class to reach out to when you have questions. When it comes close to test time, you can form study groups.
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Daily check-ins.
Life can get hectic and many of us can become so consumed with taking care of home, work, kids and our spouses that we forget to do regular check-ins with ourselves. No one can do what you do and handle the life that you lead better than you. This is why it is crucial that you take time to examine your mental health. Take a day or even a couple of hours to go to the gym, watch a movie, do some yoga or even color – yes, they make coloring books for adults.
Whatever it is, do not procrastinate when it comes to becoming a better and healthier version of you.
More tips from the author can be found on YouTube at KalynKae
