Make a Plan
Time will get taken up with all sorts of things. Be intentional and make your plan. Then honor yourself and your goals by following the plan!
Go to Class!
Join Activities
Research shows that students who join activities on campus increase their feelings of belonging (i.e., comfort on campus and feeling at home). Students who DON'T engage are more likely to feel isolated and even transfer or quit altogether. There are SO MANY options for you!
Find something fun and interesting and find your people!
Meet Those Deadlines
Your planner (either paper or digital) is your lifeline to college success. When you get your syllabus for each class, write down ALL of the deadlines (yes, even readings!).
Let the paper hold the information so you can focus on learning the content!
Ask for help, early and often
Do you know how many professionals are working on your campus, just waiting to help you? Take advantage of these services you've already paid for! Things like tutoring, academic coaching, counseling, career help, wellness programs, research assistance, help with writing papers, help when your computer crashes, etc.
It's all waiting for you! USE THESE SERVICES!
Get to Know Your Professors
Visit them during office hours. Ask questions before or after class. Email them (politely). Cultivate these relationships. Behaviors today write recommendation letters tomorrow!
Take Notes! Review Notes!
Find a format that works for you and use it. Review your notes regularly. Start with 24 hours after taking them (so you still remember the discussion and you can fill in blanks/make corrections/clarify), and then every few days after that. This spaced practice and review will reduce the stress of exam prep tremendously AND you'll have knowledge long-term!
A win-win!