Author Topic: TIPS FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS (Read 9905 times)
New students often hear that in college, "you can go to class anytime you want." NOT TRUE. Some classes may seem less interesting than others, but college is not for entertainment. Experienced students often say that the more time they spend in class, the less time they need to study outside of class.
TIP #2: LEARN THE CAMPUS
One campus tour rarely provides the geographical knowledge necessary to get around a major university. Become an explorer and spend time locating where major academic and service departments are located. Don't become a senior who is still trying to find the library.
No one memorizes all the rules--but have a copy available. Academic policies are usually found on the web page and almost always in the student handbook or catalog. Do not become one of those who says, "But nobody told me..."
Rumors of all types fly across a campus. While almost all do have a particle of truth, most rumors are largely fiction. Check program or academic rumors with professors or advisors before changing anything related to class preparation or scheduling.
Have a social life, but plan your study time properly. Do not begin to study for a test or write a paper the night before either is due. Read syllabi early for dates and note them on a calendar. Remember, sleep is also necessary, so budget for that as well.
Keep in mind that when a professor critiques your work, he or she is doing you a favor. This is not personal; any work can be improved. The more "red lines" you see on a paper, the more time that the professor took to point out ways for you to improve. It is very frustrating to see a grade assigned to a paper or test and no comments or feedback as to how that grade was determined or how you can do better next time.
TIP #7: REALIZE THAT BEING A STUDENT IS A FULL-TIME JOB
You can't work hard only one day a week and earn acceptable grades. Look at collegiate life as a full-time career for the present. Focus on good academic habits, social skills, and balancing priorities. Now is the time to develop skills that will be expected after graduation in your selected career.
No matter what your major or discipline of interest, the single most important skill for life success is communication. Understand what language is acceptable and in what situations. How you communicate your skills and thoughts demonstrates the depth of your education. Even if your grades in technical courses get you that first job, it is your communication skills--usually in writing--that get you your promotion.
Becoming part of the campus community is just as important as going to class, writing papers, and taking exams. Don't join every group, but be selective and participate in activities that will offer balance to your life. Take advantage of the variety of university experiences.
TIP #10: GET TO KNOW YOUR PROFESSORS BEFORE YOU GRADUATE
Begin by targeting some faculty that you think are worth knowing before you graduate. Who are you likely to have in more than one course? These are the professors who will evaluate your work, supply references for future career options or graduate school, and help guide your intellectual development. Most faculty are very approachable; don't let titles of "professor" or "doctor"' frighten you. Those titles are their achievement, and these are the people who will help you attain the goals you have set for yourself.
In high school, a good student is supposed to know all the answers and get everything right. But in college, you take on more difficult challenges and more demanding material. It is no longer possible to have "all the answers." Beyond college, that kind of high school perfection isn't even remotely possible. Learn to be patient with others and with yourself. Learn to function well in situations where 100% success isn't possible; seek out and value the big questions which are more important than answers.
You will make errors or mistakes during your collegiate career. Please be assured that you are not HOPELESS. When you realize, or even think, you have goofed, set out to correct it.
Seeking advice is always nice. Trying to play it safe and avoid making decisions can lead to as many problems as making uninformed or risky choices. Consider options and gather as much information as possible. Accept responsibility for your decisions.
TIP #14: YOU ARE IN SCHOOL FOR YOUR EDUCATION, NOT SOMEONE ELSE'S
There are no dumb questions concerning subject matter. If you don't know or don't understand something, chances are several of your classmates don't either. Learning to ask questions is a skill. Develop it!
If what you say and do is prompted by others, or if nothing is ever your fault because others "pushed'" you, you cannot claim to be an adult, just an immature follower.
If you are not doing well academically, get help. Very few students get through college without some assistance. If it takes you longer to learn material or even to graduate, so what? Remove distractions when studying. Go to review sessions and use tutoring services. GO TO CLASS and participate. Don't blame your professors, your roommate, or your teaching assistants. Get their help to eliminate the problems.
The university DOES want you to succeed and will help you by means of all its services. These range from math and writing skills centers to personal counseling. Let the university serve you. After all, it is your school. You are paying for these services anyway, in the form of tuition and fees.
TIP #21: WRITE HOME
It may sound silly but parents and family can prove to be the best support service. Families honestly want to know how you are doing. They may not be able to do more than listen, but that act alone is essential to your well-being. Siblings, grandparents, and neighborhood friends are in your corner and want you to succeed. Let them share in your new life.
Re: TIPS FOR FIRST-YEAR STUDENTS
Good post. This topic will be helpful for all 1ts year student.
Please all the First year students............Must be follow the Tips No. 3 that maintain the university rules.
I like to say thanks to Mr. Ripon. these are some break through points that all the freshers are needed to observe strictly.
Informative and helpful for new students.
Nice tips for the freshers. They should follow these guidelines.
This topic will be helpful for all
Nice post and also helpful for the new student.
Really informative post. Vary helpful for fresher.