Saturday, July 12, 2008

Steps to Success in Your Freshman Year

The transition between high school and college can be a challenging time even for the most academically-prepared student. College is a lot different than high school and first-year students who are ready for the challenge are more likely to succeed. In college, you'll encounter different teaching styles, a new environment, and the responsibility of balancing multiple tasks with time management. Here are some tips to help make your freshman year a great success:

You are responsible for your academic success. Keep up with your deadlines, exams, etc. It's your responsibility to plan your time and schedule so you can complete your assignments and papers on time and study for exams. At the beginning of the semester, your professors will hand out a class syllabus that includes test dates, deadlines for papers and projects, and the reading schedule. During the first week of classes, take a few minutes to mark the important dates in your planner or calendar.

Don't be shy about visiting your professors. No matter if your class is small or large, stop by or make an appointment to see your professor if you have questions or need guidance. The location and office hours should be included in the syllabus you get at the beginning of the semester.

Get the most out of your classes. Pay attention, sit up front and take notes. Get to know other students in your classes with whom you can study and share notes.

It's perfectly normal to feel homesick. For most students, freshman year is the first time they've been away from home for an extended period of time. It's natural to miss your family and friends, home-cooked meals, and pets. You'll find that as you get involved at college and make new friends, these feelings will fade. And if you get really lonely, home is just a phone call away.

Take advantage of the academic resources your school has to offer. Many schools teach classes and workshops on study skills, test-taking, writing, tutoring and academic orientation. Familiarize yourself with the library. If you're having trouble adjusting or if you have personal issues, set up an appointment with your school's counseling service. And don't forget to use the recreational facilities – exercise is a great way to reduce stress.

Good advising is essential. Your academic advisor helps you select the proper courses for your program when you register each semester. Your advisor is also a good source for academic information and policies. If you don't know who your academic advisor is, contact your college or department and set up an appointment.

Get involved! College is about more than books and grades. It's a time for exploring, meeting new people and gaining experience. Join an academic or social club, check out Greek life, attend cultural events such as films, concerts and plays, participate in intramural athletics. The best way to get tuned in to campus life is to live on campus your freshman year. Take advantage of events and programming in your residence hall. The more you connect to all aspects of student life, the more likely you are to succeed academically and make the transition to college.

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