How to Do Well in College, From a Professor ’ s Perspective

I’ve taught at colleges and universities in the United States since 1985. I teach writing. And over the years, I’ve amassed a great deal of information on how to teach.  In short, each semester I practice educating others, I become a better instructor. But I’ve also collected some good info on how to get the most out of the college experience from the other side of the “fence” — how to be a good student and how to enjoy, not just suffer through, college. Below are some of my tips for doing well in college. Show Up This is a no brainer, but go to class. We’ve all heard the sentiment that “half the battle is just showing up”; it’s true. Be there. Participate. Ask questions. Help build a classroom community. Your teacher and your fellow students will appreciate it, and you’ll learn much more. Read the Syllabus Another no brainer, but very important. The syllabus is your classroom “contract.” It lists everything that will be covered in the course. Doesn’t it just make sense to scan it every day and see what will be occurring in class regularly? Come on; be ready to learn. Buy the Book Another very obvious point, but you wouldn’t believe how many students try to slip by in a course without the proper textbooks.  You just can’t avoid purchasing the books.  It’s not fair to yourself, your fellow students or your professor. Find Out What You Missed When You’re Absent Class periods are important, each and every one. If you miss a week of clas...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: College Personal Self-Help Students Success & Achievement Academic Achievement Education studies teacher university Source Type: blogs