Eight Keys to Academic Success in College

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In 2021, I wrote a post on how to be successful in that less-than-normal academic year. This post assumes a more "normal" classroom experience. So for you college students just getting started, here are a few things to consider that might help you get the most out of your semester and year. This list is not exhaustive or in any particular order, but I offer here a few things to keep in mind.

  1. Communicate with your Professors. Before the semester starts or soon after that, reach out to your professors. I recommend introducing yourself and letting them know that you're looking forward to their class. Use email for this communication, but if they are on social media, go ahead and connect with them. It is a great way to find shared interests and immediately puts you head and shoulders above the crowd. This tip is particularly helpful in larger general education courses where it is easy to become a number.

  2. Go to Class and Be on Time. This point goes without saying, but it needs to be said. Show up and try your best to be on time. Whether or not your professor takes attendance (many do not, but most colleges do have an attendance policy), ensure you get to class well before it starts. Walking into class late can disrupt the flow of things, and it sets you —the student—in a negative light. In general, get up, get out of bed and get going.

  3. Read Stephen Covey's book 7 Habits of Highly Successful People. Reading material like this (there are others such as David Allen's Getting Things Done) will give you a head start in your academic productivity.

  4. Sit Closer to the Front of the Class. It is great to connect with other students but connect with the students who are near the front of the class. This practice helps reduce the number of distractions you might face during the semester.

  5. Read the syllabus and Know it. This might seem obvious, but too often, students forget to read and digest it, and this will have serious ramifications down the road.

  6. Get lots of Sleep, Eat Well, and Exercise. Mom here. It's tempting to stay up late, especially with all the activities available on a typical college campus (and off campus). But resist that temptation to run on empty. You need sleep, you need to eat well, and you need to establish a good weekly exercise routine. Plus, working out is a great place to plug in good books (point 3 above) or podcasts that will further your educational experience.

  7. Balance Curricular with Co-Curricular. Most campuses offer an overwhelming number of things to do, particularly for freshmen. In part, these activities attempt to ward off homesickness and other such ailments of the first semester and first year. These opportunities are great and helpful. Just remember the value of moderation. Your number one reason to be in college is to succeed academically. Don't let that goal be sacrificed for one more late-night game of 'Ultimate Frisbee.'

  8. Get Control of your Technology, both software, and hardware. Learn some basic skills on your phone and computer. Get control of your email. No one loves email, but it is here to stay, and colleges use it regularly to communicate with students. Conduct an inventory of games and social media accounts. What do you need, and what can go away? Finally, learn a few basic skills such as how to scan and create a PDF file on your phone, how to use your electronic calendar, and how to build a Keynote presentation on your laptop. Students will have different needs depending on their respective programs. But some basic skills in navigating electronic tools will be immensely helpful throughout your college career. And thankfully, for all of these skills, YouTube is your friend.

Now, go out and have a great semester!

So, what are some other keys to student success?