SHINE: 12 Tips for Academic Success

Having been a college student, I’ve done what all college freshman have done or will likely do: attend a new student orientation, sit in a college success course, and read many articles/blogs regarding how to achieve success in college. There is an abundance of excellent advice from well-meaning people who genuinely want students to flourish both academically and in life. Unfortunately, research has shown that even after reading multiple articles and applying the recommended advice, many students still struggle and often drop out of college.

As a full-time college instructor and doctoral candidate, I understand the difficulties of trying to maintain a healthy work-school-life balance. Here are 12 tried and tested practical tips that can truly help students succeed academically and thrive in college.

Plan ahead.

On the first day of class my students are shown how to create a VMOSA (vision, mission, objectives, strategy, and action) plan. Oftentimes, students enroll in a course because it sounds like fun or their friend registered for the same class. By creating a VMOSA students are able to clarify which course(s) will benefit them in the long run. For example, psychology majors may see that an elective communication course could benefit them in the following areas: their personal/professional communication skills and an increased awareness of the field of cognitive and communication psychology.

Set the alarm.

We all know it is important to get to class on time. However, there are other reasons to set your alarm. Getting up 30 minutes earlier to review your notes better prepares you to contribute to class discussion. In the evening, if you are unable to focus, don’t force yourself to study. Instead set your alarm and take an hour-long nap. Afterwards, you’ll feel refreshed and ready to hit the books.

Start backward.

Read the end of the chapter first. Most textbooks include a summary, checklist, or key ideas section in every chapter. Read those first, then read the rest of the chapter. Zero-in on the key ideas listed at the end of the chapter as those are usually the items you will be tested on.

Skim, think, read, compare.

It’s common practice to read every line on every page of assigned material. I encourage you to skim the book/document, formulate your own thoughts on the topic, then read the text with a critical eye, determining how the authors’ point of view differs (or not) from your own. If the authors’ argument does not seem credible or seems confusing, raise the issue in class to get clarification.

Explore multiple perspectives.

The Internet is a wonderful tool; use it to research a topic and get multiple perspectives. This helps you to formulate your own ideas and show your professor you’re able to conduct scholarly research.

Write more, not less.

Instructors are well aware of all the tried and true tricks as far as utilizing space on the written page (adjusting margins, enlarging fonts, etc.). I encourage you to write more, not less. Professors prefer to read an extra paragraph rather than a short, rushed through paper with a weak or no conclusion.

Get a new study partner.

Friends are wonderful, but they are not always the best study partner. Team up with a new classmate, swap notes and perspectives on assignments and course readings. This helps with developing good relationships and with becoming a well-rounded individual.

Find a coach.

Academic counselors and instructors are wonderful allies and welcome the opportunity to serve as coaches to assist you with making the best educational decisions. All instructors and counselors post their office hours on the class syllabus, online, and/or on their door. Schedule time to meet with instructors in order to get clarification on assignments or to receive coaching to advance to the next level.

Meet the librarian(s).

Librarians are not only great coaches, but they have access to A LOT of information, tools, and resources that can make your life much easier. Librarians TRULY love their job and are happy to help you conduct research. Can’t find a book or an article? The librarians can!

Remember that life happens.

I hate to say it, but accidents happen, people get sick or die, babysitters cancel, people sometimes have to work double shifts at work. Life happens. IF the student communicates early and often, professors are usually willing to work with students (give extensions, create alternative assignments, etc.) However, don’t try to take advantage of an ally. Instructors will hold you accountable for perceived patterns.

Avoid club fatigue.

There are many fun clubs and campus activities. I encourage you to participate in only one or two extracurricular activities in order to avoid club fatigue. Multiple activities may have conflicting schedules which will prevent you from being present and fully engaged.

Always do your best.

Always check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors. Complete all assignments, even if it is a late submission (as approved by your instructor). Always take pride in your work and in your appearance.

This article originally appeared on kimberlyharden.com.