Classes and Coursework: Tips for Success

While you’ll most likely spend less time in classes than you did in high school, you’ll spend more time studying and doing assignments. College will require new study habits and more time management as you become responsible for scheduling and managing your own workload. Here are some suggestions for academic success in college:

Go to Class

Simply showing up to class is the easiest way to improve your odds of academic success. But it can be tempting to skip out on classes, especially large ones where the instructor may not keep tabs on attendance. Attending class is usually the best way to learn the material that you’ll need for tests or assignments. Professors often test more heavily on material covered in class than on what’s in the textbook. Also, if professors have seen you in class, they may be more lenient with make-up assignments or tests should you have to miss a class.

Take Good Notes

Your college courses will be more complex and in depth than high school classes. If you don’t already have strong note-taking skills, it’s important that you develop them so you can refer back to your notes when preparing assignments or studying for tests. College professors often lecture and test on information that isn’t in the textbook.

Schedule Study Time

Juggling courses, social activities and other obligations can be challenging. It’s best to schedule your study time and set specific goals for each session. It’s important that you block out enough time in your schedule to complete necessary reading and assignments each week.

Avoid Cramming

It’s easy to procrastinate studying for a test that is two weeks away, but starting early can prevent last minute cramming. Staying up all night for last minute studying strains you mentally and physically. While you may have been able to get away with cramming for a high school exam, college exams usually cover larger amounts of material and it can be difficult to do well without planning and preparation.

Use Resources

If you are having trouble with a class, reach out for support from the professor, an academic advisor or a tutoring program as soon as possible. Seeking support early can reduce stress and prevent you from falling behind or getting low grades. It’s much better to make a trip to the academic advising office early in the semester for help than to the registrar’s office late in the semester to drop a class you are failing.

For Immediate Assistance

Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255)