Tags

, ,

Graduates often say that their college experience made up the best years of their lives. It’s a magical time for meeting new people, making memories, and having formative experiences that will serve you for a lifetime. Here’s the advice I give my students not only as someone who has walked in their shoes, but as a professor who wants every single one of them to succeed.  

#1: Realize that Being a Student is a Full-Time Job. Being a student is not a hobby or part-time exercise; you’re preparing for a career. Focus on developing good habits that will serve you for a lifetime, like time management, balancing priorities, and being professional. Things like this will be expected of you after graduation. Think of college as the training program for your career.  

#2: Go to Class. Be an active participant. Nothing lays the groundwork for failure like skipping class. Some universities do not have attendance policies; some do. Regardless, spend as much time in class as possible. The professor will cover things that aren’t in your textbook, and many relate real-life experiences in their field that will help you later on. Students often report that the more time they spend in class, the less time they have to study outside of class. Remember, you’re in college to learn and prepare for your profession. 

#3: Read your Syllabi. No one reads syllabi for fun, but they contain the information you need to succeed in your coursework. Familiarize yourself with the rules and expectations of your teachers. You will be less likely to ask questions it addresses concerning expectations, due dates, and academic policies. Deadlines matter! Some universities have policies that make-up work will only be accepted if it is late because of an excused absence, for instance. Knowing the professor’s expectations will help you with time management also. 

#4: Learn How to Manage Your Time. College can be hectic at times. You’re expected to have a social life, but you must balance it with the expectations of your professors and your commitments to on-campus organizations and perhaps a part-time job (if you need one). Use tools like planners, calendars, and apps to help you manage study sessions, assignments, and other commitments. For the sake of your health, well-being, and mental readiness, also plan to eat and sleep at regular times. Spend time studying daily—cramming for an exam is the least effective way to learn. Set manageable goals, and don’t procrastinate!

#5: Learn How to Communicate Properly. Communication is one of the most critical skills a person can develop. Know what kind of language is acceptable in a variety of situations. In an age of texting, know how to send a proper email. Know when to use the appropriate salutation, whether Dr., Mr., Mrs., or Ms. Your professors don’t mind you sending them an email late at night, but don’t expect an immediate response or expect them to answer outside of business hours (most will respond within 24-48 hours). Be sure to remain professional at all times—it will set you apart from your peers. 

#6: Take Responsibility. Going to college is not like going to 13th grade. It is a stepping stone between high school and your professional life as an adult—and that carries some pretty weighty expectations and responsibilities. Students may be tempted to shift blame or use the “my dog ate my homework” excuse for missing or failing assignments. Don’t. Honesty is vital, even when it carries consequences. If you need to talk to a professor or academic advisor, do so—the sooner, the better. I can guarantee you that they don’t want you to fail any more than you do.

#7 Get Involved. Every university has a variety of ways to plug into campus life, whether it be social clubs or professional organizations. It’s essential to try new things and meet new people. You can gain experience from interacting with others who have shared interests. Trying new things will help you network, discover job opportunities, find something you’re passionate about, and even make a valuable addition to your resume. 

#8: Learn to Accept Constructive Criticism. You’re in a new stage of life where you’re preparing for a career. Accepting constructive criticism is simply part of life. Contrary to what you might think, the more red marks you see on a paper or assignment probably means the professor is doing you a favor. It takes time to mark an assignment, and he or she is doing so to show you where to improve. 

#9: Address Mistakes Promptly. Life is stressful, and not everything always goes as planned. We all make mistakes but don’t be afraid of them. Whenever some challenge or problem arises, let your professors know immediately.  Don’t allow setbacks or failures to overwhelm you. Addressing them promptly will keep them from piling up and stressing you out even further. Mistakes and even failures can provide learning opportunities to grow. 

#10: Ask Questions. As the old saying goes, “There are no stupid questions.” If you don’t know or don’t understand something, it is likely that several others don’t either. Asking good questions is an important life skill. 

#11: Get to Know Your Professors. Most of them will gladly offer help or sound advice. If you approach them humbly, some of them will bend over backwards to assist you. They may also give you references or recommendations, which will help shape your development. You’ll find that some of them will remain interested in you and your career for years to come. They may be some of the first real adult friends you make. They might even want you to collaborate with them on a future project, which will help your career. 

#12: Exercise. Most colleges have fitness centers. Use them! Staying in shape gives you more energy and helps your overall satisfaction with yourself. Enjoying how you look in the mirror is important. Being healthy is an essential part of self-care. 

There are more things you can do to ensure your success; this isn’t a complete list, nor is it a magic formula that will work without fail. But don’t forget: as long as you keep your priorities in order (with God first), take care of business, and always do right by others, you will be successful in the most important ways.