How to Be Successful in College
In an article on college success, I wrote about how an academic mindset and student agency are central to college success. Below are effective and often powerful behaviors related to mindset and agency that are critical to student success. The more students engage these behaviors consistently, the more successful they will be.
1. Academic Advising & Course Selection
Students have to make intentional effort to stay on track in order to graduate in four years, reduce debt, and move into the workforce faster.
Example Strategies:
15 to 4 Rule: Register for at least 15 credits per semester to ensure on-time graduation.
Meet with your advisor twice per semester: once for a mid-term check-in and once for registration.
Stay informed: Contact the registrar to get key dates for academic course calendars.
2. Academic Engagement and Learning Strategies
Success in college requires engaging mentally in learning—inside and outside the classroom. This means preparing before class, mastering note-taking strategies, and using study techniques that promote long-term retention and understanding.
Example Strategies:
Attend and engage: Be present for 90% of classes and speak at least once in 50% of them.
Develop consistent note-taking habits: Review and summarize notes daily.
Prepare for exams: Schedule 2-3 study sessions for tests starting two weeks in advance.
Utilize office hours: Attend at least 1 office hour per month with 1 or more questions ready.
Use active learning strategies: Develop flashcards, mind maps, or study guides for key concepts.
3. Time Management
Organizing time effectively is critical to preventing burnout and falling behind.
Example Strategies:
Build a daily schedule: Plan classes, meals, study time, downtime, and sleep in advance.
Review your schedule daily: Finalize the next day’s schedule each evening or a day or so before.
Plan thoughtfully and flexibly: Schedule faculty office hours, study groups, support groups, etc. as tentative in your schedule so you can attend if needed.
4. Mentorship
Building meaningful relationships with faculty, advisors, and staff can make a significant difference in a student’s success and sense of belonging.
Example Strategies:
Engage with professors: Attend office hours or set up individual meetings at least once per term.
Seek out mentors: Identify a professor, RA, or staff member you connect with and ask for advice or guidance.
Follow through: Continue meeting with them regularly to strengthen those relationships.
5. Access to Positive Supports
Students who have access to healthy support systems—social, academic, or emotional—are more likely to navigate challenges effectively.
Example Strategies:
Evaluate social groups: Reflect weekly on which relationships are positive and supportive.
Advocate for resources: Meet with the ADA office to discuss accommodations as needed.
Join support groups: Attend sessions for anxiety or other issues affecting your well-being.
6. Social Integration and Engagement
The more connected a student feels to their individuals in their campus community, the more likely they are to persist through challenges.
Example Strategies:
Get involved: Try out 3 clubs and commit to the one you enjoy the most.
Build relationships: Schedule time each week to engage with classmates, attend an event with someone from a club, or hang out with residents in your dorm.
Attend campus events: Participate in at least 2 campus events each month.
7. Resource Identification and Access
Larger campuses often have scattered resources, while smaller schools may combine services. Knowing where to go for help ensures students can access the support they need, when they need it.
Example Strategies:
Create a resource list: Compile contact info for key services, like counseling, tutoring, and advising.
Meet regularly: Schedule bi-monthly check-ins with your RA or Hall Director to discuss resources.
Visit the counseling center: Learn about available services and appointment scheduling.
8. Personal and Professional Development
Growth outside the classroom—whether personal or career-oriented—is vital for long-term success.
Example Strategies:
Visit the career center: Complete your resume and a practice interview by the end of your first year.
Seek faculty advice: Meet with a professor in your major to discuss career paths and expectations.
Pursue internships: Secure and complete at least 2 internships before senior year.
9. Financial Management
Budgeting and understanding personal finances are essential skills for reducing debt and managing the costs of college.
Example Strategies:
Understand how income and taxes work: Complete federal and state taxes before March 1st and review with a professional.
Create a budget: Track all expenses (receipts, bills, pay statements) for 3 months to help develop your budget for the rest of the year.
Understand loan costs: Calculate the long-term cost of missing student loan interest payments.
Engaging in these behaviors and strategies helps students prepare for and overcome challenges, stay engaged, and graduate on time. Every student’s journey is unique, so tailoring the strategies to their individual needs and goals is key. Ultimately, a well-crafted plan can transform potential roadblocks into stepping stones for success—both in college and beyond.