Attend all classes, be on time, sit in the front of the classroom (or an area clear of distractions), and participate actively. Do all homework, ask questions, and attend all labs and offered supplemental learning sessions. In other words, don’t forget about the basics of being a student. It will provide you with the best foundation for success.
Communicate early and often with your professor if you are having difficulties or do not understand something. Attend office hours, and take the initiative to get to know your professors. It makes it much easier to ask for help when you have an established relationship.
Study to learn the material and relate it to other learning rather than just to pass a test.
Learn how to use short time-blocks during the day to advantage instead of just wasting them.
Learn an effective note-taking strategy.
Learn an active reading strategy.
Use a planning calendar.
Write in class times, meal times, rehearsals and practices, required programs, etc.
Write in deadlines for each course assignment on the dates they are due.
Working back from the deadline, note a starting time for each phase of the project, i.e., prepare the final draft, write the first draft, go to library to get resources, etc.
Write in regular study times throughout a week (and stick to them).
Make a list of tasks that must be completed on a given day.
Each morning review the appointments, deadlines, and tasks that must be completed that day. Plan the day accordingly.
Practice regular self-care, and reach out to campus resources such as the Counseling Center if you are struggling.
