How to Achieve College Success: Practical Tips for Students

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 20 June 2023 8 min read

College life can be an exciting and challenging experience for many students. To make the most of it and achieve success, you need to develop a set of practical skills and habits that will help you stay on top of your studies and other responsibilities. In this blog, we'll explore some key strategies on how to be successful in college, covering essential areas such as time management, study strategies, stress management, academic resources, networking opportunities, and financial tips. Let's dive in!

Time Management

Effective time management is one of the most important factors in determining your success in college. By organizing your daily tasks and responsibilities, you can work more efficiently and achieve your goals with less stress.

Prioritizing Tasks

One of the first steps in managing your time effectively is learning to prioritize your tasks. Here's how you can do it:

Urgent vs important: Separate tasks into "urgent" and "important" categories, focusing on completing urgent tasks first and then moving on to important ones.
Break down tasks: Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable chunks to make them less overwhelming.
Set deadlines: Assign realistic deadlines to your tasks, which will help you stay on track and avoid last-minute stress.

Creating a Schedule

Having a well-organized schedule can make a significant difference in how to be successful in college. To create an effective schedule, consider the following tips:

Plan ahead: Plan your week ahead of time, including classes, study sessions, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments.
Use a calendar: Use a digital or physical calendar to keep track of assignments, exams, and other important dates.
Allocate time for breaks: Schedule regular breaks for relaxation and self-care to prevent burnout and maintain mental well-being.

Avoiding Procrastination

Procrastination can be a major roadblock on your path to college success. Here are some practical ways to avoid procrastination and stay focused on your goals:

Set specific goals: Set clear and achievable goals for each study session, which will give you a sense of direction and motivation.
Eliminate distractions: Create a quiet and clutter-free study space, and temporarily disconnect from social media and other distractions.
Reward yourself: Give yourself small rewards for completing tasks on time, such as a short break or a favorite snack.

Study Strategies

Developing effective study habits is crucial for academic success in college. Let's look at some proven strategies that can help you retain information and perform better on exams.

Note-taking Techniques

Good note-taking skills can greatly enhance your understanding of course material. Here are some techniques to consider:

Cornell Method: Divide your paper into two columns, with the left column for main ideas and the right column for supporting details. This helps you organize and review your notes more effectively.
Outlining: Use headings and subheadings to create a hierarchical structure of your notes, making it easier to identify key concepts and their relationships.
Mind Mapping: Visually represent information by connecting related ideas with lines and circles. This can help you see the big picture and discover new connections between topics.

Active Reading

Active reading involves engaging with the text and asking questions as you read, which can greatly improve comprehension and retention. Try these tips for effective active reading:

Preview the material: Skim the headings and subheadings before diving into the text to get a general idea of the content.
Ask questions: As you read, ask yourself questions about the material, such as "What is the main point of this section?" or "How does this relate to what I already know?"
Summarize: After finishing a section or chapter, summarize the main points in your own words to reinforce your understanding.

Group Study

Studying in groups can help you learn more effectively by sharing ideas, asking questions, and explaining concepts to others. Consider these tips for successful group study sessions:

Choose the right group members: Select classmates who are motivated and share similar academic goals.
Set an agenda: Create a clear agenda for each study session, outlining the topics to be covered and the goals for the meeting.
Divide and conquer: Assign specific tasks or topics to each group member, then come together to share and discuss what you've learned.

Stress Management

College can be a stressful time, but learning to manage stress is key to staying healthy and maintaining a balanced life. Here are some strategies to help you cope with stress and stay focused on your goals.

Regular Exercise

Exercise is not only beneficial for your physical health, but it also helps to reduce stress and improve your mood. Consider incorporating these activities into your routine:

Aerobic exercise: Activities like running, swimming, or cycling can help release endorphins and improve your overall well-being.
Strength training: Lifting weights or doing bodyweight exercises can boost your mood and help you feel more confident.
Yoga: Practicing yoga can help you relax, increase your flexibility, and strengthen your mind-body connection.

Mindfulness Practices

Developing mindfulness skills can help you manage stress by promoting self-awareness and emotional resilience. Try integrating these practices into your daily life:

Meditation: Set aside a few minutes each day to sit quietly and focus on your breath, helping to calm your mind and reduce stress.
Deep breathing exercises: Practice taking slow, deep breaths to help lower your heart rate and blood pressure, which can help alleviate stress.
Gratitude journaling: Reflect on the positive aspects of your life by writing down things you're grateful for. This can shift your focus away from stressors and improve your overall mood.

Seeking Support

Don't hesitate to reach out for help when you're feeling overwhelmed. Here are some resources that can provide support during stressful times:

Friends and family: Share your feelings with your loved ones, who can offer a listening ear and encouragement.
College counseling services: Many colleges offer free counseling services to students, which can provide valuable support and stress management strategies.
Support groups: Connecting with others who are experiencing similar challenges can help you feel less alone and offer valuable insights on how to cope with stress.

Academic Resources

Maximizing your academic success in college requires taking advantage of the various resources available to you. Here are some key resources that can help you stay on track and reach your full potential.

Tutoring Services

Don't be afraid to seek help with challenging subjects. Most colleges offer tutoring services that can provide additional support, such as:

Peer tutoring: Fellow students who have excelled in a particular course can help clarify concepts and answer questions.
Professional tutors: Some colleges may have professional tutors on staff to assist with more advanced courses or specialized subjects.
Online tutoring: If you're unable to attend in-person tutoring sessions, many colleges offer online tutoring options to accommodate your schedule.

Writing Centers

Writing centers are valuable resources for improving your writing skills and getting feedback on your work. They can assist with:

Essay structure: Get help organizing your thoughts and creating a clear, coherent argument.
Grammar and punctuation: Receive guidance on proper grammar usage and punctuation to polish your writing.
Citation styles: Learn how to properly cite sources in various citation formats, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago style.

Library Research Tools

Your college library is a treasure trove of resources that can help you succeed in your courses. Here are some tools and services to explore:

Research databases: Access scholarly articles, books, and other materials to support your research projects and assignments.
Reference librarians: Librarians can help you navigate the research process and locate relevant sources for your assignments.
Study spaces: Libraries often provide quiet areas for individual study or group work, allowing you to focus and collaborate effectively.

Networking Opportunities

Building connections with peers, professors, and professionals can significantly impact your college experience and future career prospects. Here are some ways to expand your network and make valuable connections while in college.

Joining Clubs

Clubs and organizations are great ways to meet like-minded individuals who share your interests. Some examples of clubs you can join include:

Academic clubs: Connect with peers who share your passion for a specific subject or major.
Cultural clubs: Engage with people from diverse backgrounds and learn about different cultures.
Professional organizations: Join clubs related to your desired career field to network with professionals and gain industry insights.

Attending Events

Participating in campus events can help you expand your network and learn new skills. Some events to consider attending are:

Career fairs: Meet with potential employers, learn about job opportunities, and practice your interview skills.
Guest lectures: Listen to experts in various fields and gain insights into potential career paths or research topics.
Workshops and conferences: Develop new skills and knowledge by attending workshops or conferences related to your field of study.

Creating Professional Profiles

Building a strong online presence can help you showcase your achievements and connect with professionals in your field. Here are some tips to create a professional profile:

LinkedIn: Create a LinkedIn profile to highlight your education, work experience, and skills. Connect with classmates, professors, and professionals in your industry.
Online portfolio: If you're in a creative field, consider building an online portfolio to showcase your work and projects.
Professional website: Having your own website can serve as a digital resume and a platform to share your thoughts or research with a broader audience.

Financial Tips

Managing your finances while in college can be challenging, but it's an essential skill for achieving success. Here are some practical financial tips to help you make the most of your college experience without breaking the bank.

Budgeting

Creating and sticking to a budget can help you manage your expenses and avoid unnecessary debt. Follow these steps to create a budget:

Track your expenses: Record all your expenses for a month to understand where your money is going.
Set financial goals: Determine your short-term and long-term financial goals, such as paying off student loans or saving for an emergency fund.
Create a budget plan: Allocate your income to different expense categories, such as rent, food, and entertainment, while keeping in mind your financial goals.
Monitor and adjust: Regularly review your budget and make adjustments as needed to stay on track with your goals.

Applying for Scholarships

Scholarships can help reduce the financial burden of college tuition and related expenses. Here are some tips for finding and applying for scholarships:

Start early: Begin your scholarship search well before the application deadlines to maximize your chances of success.
Research: Look for scholarships offered by your college, local organizations, national organizations, and companies related to your field of study.
Customize your applications: Tailor your application to each scholarship by highlighting your relevant achievements, experiences, and goals.
Proofread: Double-check your application for errors and ask someone you trust to review it as well.

Finding Part-time Jobs

A part-time job can help you earn extra income and gain valuable work experience. Here are some ways to find part-time jobs while in college:

On-campus jobs: Many colleges offer on-campus job opportunities, such as working in the library or as a teaching assistant.
Internships: Internships can provide valuable work experience and networking opportunities in your field of study, and some internships are paid.
Freelancing: Offer your skills and services as a freelancer in areas such as writing, graphic design, or tutoring to earn money and build your portfolio.

By following these financial tips and learning how to be successful in college, you'll be well on your way to achieving your academic and financial goals.

If you're ready to embark on your creative journey but don't know where to start, check out the workshop 'Getting Started As A Creative' by Corbin Shaw. This workshop will provide you with valuable insights and guidance to help you kickstart your creative career with confidence.