What should I expect in college?

  • In college, you are expected to take responsibility for your education. Be sure to read the college bulletin and student handbook. Do that today, and underline the important sections.
  • Organize your time and tasks. Time management is important in college and in the real world. Write down classes, work schedule, study time and "play time" on a schedule.
  • You should set a goal to attend every class in every subject. Ask yourself "How much am I paying for each class hour?". For example, if you pay $100 per credit and take a 3 credit class, that comes to $300. Divide that by about 40 class hours per semester for that course to determine what you are paying for each class hour. You can also figure in $500 computer and technology fees divided by 120 days per semester. Can you afford to miss the class?
  • Know the name and course number of your classes and also the name of your instructor.
  • Get the name (useful for emailing to share class info) and telephone number of another student in the class.
  • Take notes. Without them, you will forget 80% of every class. Review your notes soon after class. Fill in any gaps.
  • Study at least two hours for every hour in class. Consider joining or forming a study group. That is also a good way to meet people, have fun learning, and make new friends.
  • Create a good study environment, Quiet is good as well as few distractions...such as the library or Student Success Center.
  • Be an active reader by always having a pen in hand to underline and make marginal notes.
  • Use a positive reward system to discipline yourself. Studying is not torture or punishment.
  • Be organized. Buy a three-ring notebook and divider tabs for keeping your materials separated by class. Use a three-hole punch to insert your syllabus and handouts in the appropriate sections. Underline or highlight key points of the syllabus.
  • Use your textbooks; they are written for students. Highlighting key terms and concepts will save time later when studying for the test.
  • Seek additional help from professors, fellow students, or the Student Success Center.