Adapting Behaviors for College Success

What does it take to succeed in college? One thing we know for sure, intelligence does not guarantee a college degree. Instead, there are a series of behaviors that successful graduates engage in that help them succeed, including studying, in and out of the classroom actions, and time management.

Studying and Attending Class Versus Distractions

The world can open up to a student when they arrive on campus. There are new friends and no parents. Interest groups, social activities, athletics, and many more opportunities can attract new students, but at the same time, they can become a detriment.

Finding quiet places to study and actually showing up to class seem like simple obvious steps to graduation. But in reality they can be difficult with dorm room distractions and new freedom. Coaching kids to adapt behaviors and decision-making skills that protect their core academic activities is crucial.

Seek and Build Relationships with Instructors

Whether it is with a professor, teacher assistant, or adjunct faculty, students should begin their relationship by reviewing the instructor. Is this someone who you want to learn from? If not, switch classes.

In addition, be smart. Get to know the instructor. Ask questions, and show up to office hours. A strong student relationship with the instructor can yield additional insights and better learning skills, creating a higher likelihood for success.

Balance and Self Care

Taking care of yourself also seems to be an obvious task, but keep in mind that most freshman college students have not had to take care of themselves for an extended period of time. So when they get to college, getting blown away by all things fun and academic can happen quite easily.

Coaching students into self care is really important. Sleeping well is critical.  Exercise and eating well can make a big difference, too. Most importantly, coach new students to take a moderate approach to exploration. It can be a huge mistake to participate in too many new social activities at once. 

Adjustment Period

Change comes quickly once you arrive at school. Everything is different across the board, and students should expect things to be awkward at first. Preparing them to succeed for college also includes preparing them for the big adjustment they will have to make in their first year.

Everything will be different. Academics will be more rigorous. There will be no parents overlooking them. And as mentioned, they are responsible for their own well-being. Things can seem off. The challenges can overwhelm them, which provides a lot of context behind the 30% drop-out rate for first year students. 

Preparing students for the unforeseen changes can make a big difference. In addition, coaching students into expecting and managing change can be a long-term rewarding experience. Everything changes, and the ability to handle it is a great soft skill for the workplace.

What would you add to help students prepare?