If you are in college, or a university, either as a new young student or an older adult returning to school, there are some things you should know. If you want to be a successful student, meaning acquiring a passing grade as well as actually learning something, there are some things you must do.

First of all, you must get required books or journals. This is not the time to watch your budget and think you can do without the textbooks. No students will want to share theirs with you, either.

Secondly, attending classes is a must. Do not think, I can skip tonight’s class because I read ahead or I’m too tired or any other excuse to get out of going. If you have a fever, the flu or are really ill, do stay home, though.
There are many things to be learned in the classroom as discussions ensue. There will be unplanned stories, questions and other asides that may be of real value.

Pay attention in class. Listen to what is being explained, debated or questioned. There are valuable resources to be gained that can only help no matter what your career choice. Take legible and intelligent notes. Rewrite them on your own time. It will make them neat and comprehensible and will help you absorb the material, as well.

When you have an assignment, thesis or report, put honest effort and research into it. The instructor can tell when you are trying to ‘wing it’. Putting valuable time into research and writing the assignment, making sure grammar, spelling and resources are correct as well as the points you are making will show through and can only make you look good.

Do the required reading and take notes, if necessary on the reading assignments.

Ask questions of your instructor or professor. Do not fear that you may be the only one who doesn’t understand something. If you are unsure, chances are someone else is, also.

Lastly, do study for exams and don’ t wait till right before a test. Study a little each day what was discussed in class. It’s difficult, but doable.

The semester will go fast. Good Luck.