With colleges and universities back in full swing, now is a good time to look at basic skills that can help students be successful. The majority of students start off a new semester with good intentions to keep up on homework and not procrastinate. But, life happens. As homework piles, the organized schedule from the first weeks of class go by the wayside.
I am certainly no expert in educational psychology, but from experience as a student and instructor, there are some things students can do to balance academics with life outside the classroom.
- Find out how you learn best. Students acquire information differently. Some learn better by hearing information, while others need to read text. Most people use a combination of learning strategies. Knowing which strategies suit you best helps focus attention when it comes to studying. If you’re not sure what type of learner you are, many colleges offer learning skills evaluations. Counselors can help you find the method(s) that will benefit you most.
- Plan ahead. On the first day of class when you are handed the syllabus, the workload seems overwhelming. Whether you use a physical planner or an app on your phone, be sure to write down all known due dates, especially for tests, papers and projects. Reviewing deadlines regularly helps you manage your academic schedule around your work and social schedule.
- Take notes. Whether you use pen and paper or a laptop/tablet, taking notes during class is imperative. As you prepare for tests or to write a paper, referring to your notes adds insight to readings from textbooks. The topics your professor covers in class are also a good indication of what topics will appear on a test. It’s also important to make sure your notes are legible (if handwritten) and organized. It can be helpful to rewrite them in order to organize them into a meaningful system that fits your learning style. The better your notes are, the less time you’ll spend searching for information as you study.
- Take advantage of campus resources. If you have questions or need help, do not hesitate to talk to your professors. They have regular office hours when you can stop by to talk to them. Or ask to schedule an appointment if office hours do not fit with your schedule. Also, most colleges offer at least some tutoring services. And more schools now offer a Writing Center as well. If you need help, do not hesitate to find a tutor in the subject or visit the Writing Center to help you organize your writing more effectively.
- Get involved but not overwhelmed. Even the most diehard academics need a break every now and then. A great way to do this is joining campus organizations. Most colleges offer a wide range of organizations to fit your interests. These organizations can be especially important for freshman or other students new to the school, as they are a great way to meet people and make connections. However, you need to be picky when it comes to which activities you join. It’s okay to say no. Getting too involved can cause you to lose balance between academics and social life.
- Find a positive support system. Overscheduling activities, midterm and finals weeks, work schedules requiring more hours than you want, etc… all cause stress in your life. It’s important to have a strong support system to help battle these stressors. Maybe it’s calling a parent or a friend back home. Maybe you have new friends at school who are willing to listen. The key is finding positive support. Positive support systems include someone to listen and offer a sympathetic shoulder, but also someone who can help refocus and reorganize your schedule to help you meet your goals. There’s nothing wrong with taking a study break to go out for lunch or to a movie, but make sure your support system doesn’t encourage you to turn that two hour movie into an all-night Netflix marathon. When you’re already behind, you need people who can help get you back on track, no distract you further.
- Self care. Just as important as having a support system, you also need to be aware of what you can do for yourself. When you feel yourself getting frustrated, have a plan to get out of the situation, even if it’s only temporary. Think about your hobbies or interests. Go for a walk. Go to a local park and take pictures of the trees and flowers. Find a quiet spot to read a non-academic book. Getting away by yourself and doing something you enjoy helps relax and refocus. It’s amazing that even 15 minutes away can make a big difference in keeping your stress level in check.
What are your best tips for success in college? If you’re a current student, what strategies have you found helpful?
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