How to Excel in Your College Classes

A student's first quarter or semester in college may be quite the academic awakening. Most students who are in college may have easily made their way through high school without cracking a textbook or taking one page of notes. The problem is: these students may not be able to skate through college like they did in high school. To help a student excel in the college classroom, here are some tips.



• Make sure you show up to class

A major mistake many students make is not attending class. Here, the instructor or professor goes over the material you read or did the night before for practice or discussion. If you decide to not go to class, you may miss out on prime opportunities to further understand the material at hand or to ask questions about anything you may not comprehend

• Take advantage of your instructor's office hours.

The instructor is there during his or her designated office hours to assist students with problems or questions they may have about the material. This time is a good chance for some one-on-one discussion where you may be able to receive some further guidance or assistance. Also, you may wish to take in quizzes or tests to discuss with the instructor, so you know what you need to improve upon before the next test.

• Read the textbook.

This task seems incredibly simple, but there are students who do not bother to take off the shrink wrap that the book comes in. Staying on top of the reading will help you to maximize the time you spend in class understanding the material. Note: If you cannot afford a textbook, then see if the campus library carries a copy. This way, you can save your money and keep up on your reading.

• Take the time after class to write out a textbook outline or rewrite the class notes.
  

The repetition may help you to keep the new concepts and information in your head. This extra studying is also a good opportunity to go through the material at a slower pace to make sure you have absorbed everything necessary.

Keeping these tips in mind may help you to excel in the college classroom.