It’s not easy being in college. You’re still growing as a person, trying to find your way in the world, and all the time, you’re trying to keep up with your studies. While there are many different factors to college life, the truth is that it’s not the friends or social times that are the most important: it’s making sure you come away with a good degree. But have you ever wondered how some students seem to get good grade after good grade, and others struggle to keep up? We take a look at some useful tips for getting the best marks possible below.
They Choose Their Classes Well
You’re going to have to do well in whatever classes you’re taking…so make sure that you choose well! But of course, it’s not easy deciding what to study. It’s best to start by looking at the subjects you’ll enjoy, and then make a couple of hard decisions: will I be pushing myself if select this class? Will this take me to where I want to go? Also: if you’re choosing a class because you want to look impressive, or, even worse, because you want to please someone else (say, parents), then you’ll only have yourself to blame if you’re not in love with the class and struggle to keep up.
And Their Professors
Some subjects are inherently interesting. But others need to be brought to life. If you’re going to be engaged with a subject, then you need to be taught by people you like, trust, and respect. There are some classes out there that could be interesting, but they’re presented in such a boring way that you can’t help but fall asleep. Sometimes, it’s best to choose a professor over a specific subject. You’ll learn more if you’re not daydreaming through the professor’s lecture!
Showing Up
“Missing class” is something of a running joke in college. It’s being so normalized that people don’t even think twice about it; if they’re a little under the weather or, in many cases, just tired, they’ll choose to stay in bed. But the people who get the most out of college power through the temptation to stay in bed, and get themselves to class. While there will be times when you’re not able to make it, try not to go too easy on yourself. You’ll learn something if you go, you won’t if you don’t. But more than that, you’ll also be setting standards for yourself. You’re here to work!
Limiting the Partying
OK, who’s going to suggest that you don’t party in college? Not me. It’s a big part of it, and so long as you’re staying safe, it’s highly recommended. But it’s important that you don’t party too much, even if you’re not going overboard. Those late nights will catch up on you, and you’ll soon find that you’re more inclined to skip class. Keep your socializing to the weekends, and focus on your studies during the week. You’re not missing out on much if you don’t go to those Tuesday parties.
Extracurricular Activities
One of the best things about college is that there are so many things to do! From sports to arts and beyond, you’ll find there’s no shortage of extracurricular clubs and classes to get involved in. While you might prefer to binge-watch Netflix, it’s worthwhile joining these clubs, because in so doing you’ll be throwing yourself into all aspects of college life. When you’re life IS college, you’ll naturally want to succeed!
Going the Extra Mile
You’re not in high school anymore. You’re not in college because you have to be there. You’re there by choice. If you’re going to get the most out of the experience, then it’s not enough just to do the bare minimum. Go above and beyond, and it’ll be reflected in your grades. You can attend the many optional talks that’ll be taking place on campus, or buy dissertations to see what first-class work looks like. The result of going the extra mile will be that you raise your standards. Soon, you’ll find yourself towards the top of your class!
Finding What Works
It’s all pretty easy in high school. You’re told what to do, and do it. In college, you’re left to your own devices, by and large. Alas, many students struggle with this freedom, and end up spending way more time than they should be procrastinating from their studies. As such, one of the best gifts you can give yourself is to find out what works best for you. If you know that you work best in the mornings, then get up and do work; you’ll have the afternoons free (see? Plenty of benefits!).
A Happy Home Life
When you’re trying to achieve anything, it’s best if all the important aspects of your life are in sync. In college, this will mean your “public” life (college), and your “private” life (where you’re living). As such, you’ll be well served by taking the time to make sure you live with people you know, like, and trust. College life can be difficult, but it’ll be all the more straightforward if you have a safe, happy space to retreat to.
No Hesitation
We know that being away from home, in a new environment, in a stressful situation (studying) can be tough. But if you’re going to go to college – and get all the benefits that it brings – then that’s what you’ve signed up for. People do a lot better in any scenario where they’re completely absorbed. If you’re forever wondering if you made the right choice by selecting your college rather than another one, then you’ll struggle to find focus. While you’re there, throw yourself into all that college brings. You only get out what you put in, after all!
Final Thoughts
There are no guarantees when it comes to college success, but there are things you can do to get yourself ahead, as we’ve soon above. Beyond that, it’s all about enjoying yourself!
I hope you enjoyed the post and that your semester goes well!
Thanks so much for reading, as always <3
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