Study Skills - Part I

TIPS ON BECOMING A SUCCESSFUL STUDENT

Often, students start college with the same expectations they had in high school. If classes were easy, and they never had to study, they expect college classes to be the same way. Students soon learn that college is much different. Some of the differences are:

• Class attendance is up to you – it is not your instructor’s or parent’s responsibility to see that you make it to class.
• It is recommended that you study 2-3 hours for each class credit.
• Studying is a necessity.
• You are responsible for how you structure your time, both studying and having fun.
• You must learn to juggle multiple demands on your time if you also work and/or have children.

Many students often run into trouble because they are not prepared for the demands of college life. What are ways in which you can make a successful transition and become a good student?

• Develop self-discipline, which grows out of setting goals and doing what you can to realize them.
• Develop good study habits, which includes maintaining a consistent study schedule.
• Plan your time. This includes setting priorities, and setting up a monthly, weekly, and daily schedule. Poor time management skills are the number one cause of academic failure.
• Ask for help when you need it. Make use of study-skills workshops, the math and writing labs, and tutors when you feel yourself falling behind. Also, talk with your instructors about your concerns. Remember, they’re on your side.
• DO NOT Begin college with the same expectations you had in high school.
• Get rid of poor time management skills, which is probably one the biggest obstacles students face.
• DO NOT develop or continue an unwillingness to ask for help when falling behind in classes.

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The teacher is responsible for how well you do in your courses.

True or False