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Top 25 tips for College Success

by Jeremy J. Cordock last modified September 12, 2007 02:26 PM
Multicultural Student Support Services offers SUNY Rockland students the top 25 tips for college success.


1. Connect with your advisor frequently before and after registration.  Register early and remember to have a backup plan for courses.

2. When planning your class schedule allow sufficient preparation  and study time for courses you might find demanding.

3. Declare a degree program/major.  If you are undecided, get help by visiting the Student Development Center. Declaring a program/major is a must if you plan to apply for financial aid.

4. Begin the transfer process early, Connect with the four-year college of your choice to indicate your interest in their programs and to share information concerning your degree program at SUNY Rockland.  For assistance with transfer, be sure to visit the student Development Center.

5. Try to attend every class; you've paid for it. If you must miss a class, get in touch with your instructors as soon as possible, and get a copy of notes from a classmate.

6. Get to know your professors and your classmates.

7. Become familiar with the campus. Find out where different offices are located and who can help.

8. Follow your professors' syllabi and directions for classes and assignments.

9. Come to class prepared by reading assigned materials prior to class discussions. Avoid falling behind in your class work.  Meet with your professor if you have difficulty with class work. Know that faculty and staff want to see you succeed.

10. Do library research early, so that you have time to sort through what you find.

11. Submit assignments on time. It counts towards your grade!

12. If you don't understand or are confused about something, ask questions. Remember, THERE ARE NO DUMB QUESTIONS.

13. Manage your time wisely. Allow two study hours for every hour in class. It is possible to work, study, and have fun if you organize your time.

14. Find a "study buddy" and/or form study groups for each class.

15. Prepare for exams at least one week in advance (to learn more on how to improve your study skills, select some of the study skills workshops offered in the Student Development Center.) (http://www.sunyrockland.edu/counseling/)

16. If you have to be absent on the day of a test, communicate with your professor as soon as you can.

17. Get involved in campus activities.

18. Read the Bulletin Boards, Campus Calendars, Student Outlook Newspaper, and familiarize yourself with the contents in the SUNY Rockland Community College Catalog and the Student Handbook.

19. Access campus services (Writing Center, Tutoring Services, Student Development Center, Multicultural Student Support Services, & Student Support Services Program).

20. Get your family, friends or significant other involved in supporting your educational goals.

21. Take responsibility for yourself, don't depend on mom, dad, siblings,  or a significant other

22. Don't give up all hope, stay positive and seek every possible assistance.

23. Have confidence and believe in yourself.

24. Plan your dream and make it happen.

25. REMEMBER! EDUCATION NEVER ENDS