10 Keys to Surviving College

What Every Student Should know

1. GO TO CLASS. There really is a correction between class attendance and grades. You already paid for classes, so don’t waste your money skipping. When you go to class, you meet people to study and have a chance to let the professor know who you are. While attendance may not be taken, most classes give points for participation. Also, try to be on time. Walking in late disrupts the class.

2. USE A PLANNER. If you don’t already have one, its time to get one. There’s a lot a variety out there, so figure out what works best for you. The key to using your planner is to write everything down in it. Appointments, phone numbers, class time, to do lists, work hours, study hours, study times, special events you want to attend. If you write everything in your planner, you will always know where to look. You can waste a lot of time looking for pieces of loose papers you’ve written things on. If you don’t plan your day, some your day, someone else will plan it for you.

3. USE YOUR RESOURCES. The campus is full of people and offices that have one purpose- to help you. The best part, their almost always free. Did you know that at K-State we have a Math Help Room? Language Learning Center, Writing Center, and an Academic Assistance Center. In the Derby and Kramer Dining facilities, there are Academic Resources Centers. There are computer labs and free tutoring on campus and in the residence halls. These are just the beginning. Make sure you take the time yet to explore the resources on campuses and use them.

4. COMMUNICATE. If you have questions or problems, you have to take some initiative and ask for help. People you can talk with are your professors, advisor, registrar, deans, classmates, tutors, etc. There are a lot of people on campus who can offer answers if you take the time to explain your situation and ask questions. The bureaucracy of higher education can be overwhelming. Stay calm and ask questions people will help.

5. SET YOUR OWN GOALS. College is not a contest. You don’t have to compete with anyone else for your grade. Don’t feel bad if you don’t understand something first time around. Chances are, your not the only one. Set your own academic/personal goals and outline the things you will need to do to accomplish them. Be realistic, but make sure to challenge yourself. If you don’t know what your working towards, you can’t succeeds.

Materials adapted from Academic Initiatives K-State Housing and Dining Services .Derby Academic Resources Center and Academic Resources Center of Kramer (785)532-2646 (785)532- 3491.