6 Tips for Being a Successful College Student
College could put you on the path toward a successful career and a better life, but that path starts in the classroom. Before you can have the career of your dreams, you need to put in the hard work and dedication it takes to be a successful student. Especially if you’re the first in your family to attend college, or if you’ve been out of school for a while, you might need some guidance on how to do well. Here are six tips to help you come out on top:
1. Create a Schedule That Works for You
In high school, you didn’t have much choice about the classes you took or when you took them. But in college, you can choose the program that fits your future and create a schedule that works best for you. Maybe you have a job or other responsibilities that make attending day classes impossible. Or maybe you just learn better at a particular time of day. Enroll in evening or online classes and make your education work for you. When you create a schedule that fits your life, you’re more likely to keep up with class attendance and assignments.
2. Always Attend Class
You can’t learn from your class if you’re not in class. When you skip school, you miss out on material that you need to learn. You also throw tuition money out the window! If you miss too many classes, it can affect your grades and even your standing in the program. If you have a valid reason to miss class, be sure to communicate that with your instructors ahead of time and find out what you’ll need to make up. This shows that you’re responsible and helps you stay on track.
3. Communicate With Your Instructors
Even before your course begins, introduce yourself to your instructor. Shoot over a short email or drop by their office hours. Once you start, reach out when you need clarification on an assignment or extra help. Being proactive demonstrates to your teachers that you care about your work, and you take school seriously. As you communicate with them, you also build a rapport, which can be a benefit long after you graduate. You never know when you may need advice, guidance, or a letter of recommendation.
4. Become Familiar with the Learning Management System
Even with an on-campus class, there will be online components. Learning management systems, such as Canvas or Blackboard, will be your go-to spot for all course-related info. Before your course begins, log into the system and familiarize yourself with the user interface. Explore the email management system, read through the syllabus, and visit the forum. The more you use it, the more comfortable you’ll become with the system.
5. Create Effective Study Habits
Study time can easily turn into distraction time if you don’t prioritize it. Build a schedule that places school as your top priority. Set aside regular time to do coursework, complete assignments, post to forums, and prepare for exams. Use calendars and reminders so you don’t miss a single due date. To bring attention to important info in texts, use post-it notes, highlighters, and margin notes. For studying, use online practice exams or good ‘ole fashioned flashcards. And use apps or online learning tools, such as OneNote or EverNote to help you organize your notes.
6. Tap Into Your Support System
A support system can help you navigate your college journey. Communicate with your friends and family about your college plans and career goals so they understand what you’re doing and why you’re doing it. Get to know your peers and connect with them both in and outside of class. Your peers can help you study, and they could also be great contacts in the field once your graduate.
If you’re ready to start your college journey, contact Charter College today. We offer a variety of programs in Business, Health Care, Information Technology, and the Trades. Classes are enrolling now. Call 888-200-9942 or fill out the form to learn more.
