Advisor Tips For Success

Successful College Students:
Stay Connected
- Read and ask questions about critical ISU communications
- Check ISU email regularly and respond using professional communication etiquette
- Keep record of all official ISU communication
- Bring relevant communication when meeting with an advisor, faculty, or staff
Adjust To The Rigor Of University Life
- Realize college requires more time spent in individual study outside of the classroom and plan for the study time necessary to support academic potential (2-3 hours study time for each hour in class is the MINIMUM for most students)
- Commit to attending every class and develop self-directed learner skills
- Develop a balanced class schedule with different courses styles and level of difficulty in mind
- Carefully consider work-life-school balance to ensure enough time is available for things outside of school
- Find a tutor as soon as possible when challenges arise and use the Math Center and Writing Center
- Meet with other students to form study groups and discuss concepts, gain insights, and review information that might not be in personal study notes
Be Responsible
- Learn academic terminology and class schedule terms
- Review the undergraduate catalog which is the ultimate academic guidebook
- Become familiar with university requirements, major, and college requirements
- Are aware of deadlines on the Academic Calendar
- Review Degree Works Audit and meet with an advisor every semester to make course selections that are based on a relevant degree map to make tracks toward graduation
- Know the importance of Academic Standing (good standing, probation, dismissal)
- Look up mid-term and final grades on BengalWeb and meet with an advisor or instructor as needed
- Stay focused through the end of each semester
- Make a weekly schedule and stick to it as much as possible including a plan for regular study time
- Do not cram for tests but take breaks regularly to stay focused
Develop Relationships With Instructors
- Know the names of class instructors and always refer to them as "Dr." or "Professor" unless invited to do otherwise
- Make sure instructors know who you are by introducing yourself and talking to instructors at the beginning of each semester
- Ask and answer questions; instructors are generally looking to have open dialog in class
- Don't be afraid to ask for help if an assignment or question posed in class is unclear
- Understand that Instructors are people too and don't expect them to be outstanding every day