With a full college course load, there are a lot of different responsibilities to manage including preparing for class; attending classes, labs and tutorials; completing homework and assignments; and studying for exams.
Time management is crucial to staying on top of things during a busy semester. Without these skills, you may find yourself trying to learn all the course material just before the exam. One aspect of time management includes keeping organized class notes that you can refer to quickly and easily when you need to.
Even if you were in the top of your class in high school, a bachelor's degree is hard work. It is almost impossible to learn everything just before the exam -- using effective study skills throughout the semester can ensure that you don't have to try. Study skills can include note taking and reading techniques or strategies for reviewing course material and exam preparation. Many universities offer study skills classes just before the fall semester begins.
Writing is a major part of college life, whether it is for in-class assignments, papers or essay-based exams. It helps to have strong writing skills, including how to organize an essay, write a thesis statement and develop a clear argument. Other important skills related to writing are how to conduct research, prepare a bibliography, and avoid plagiarism. Even if you are a strong writer, it is valuable to get feedback on your assignments before you submit them.
Test taking is as much a mental game as knowing the materials being tested. Good test takers know how to prepare for different kinds of tests, such as multiple-choice or essay-type exams. They also can pace themselves to make sure they can complete the whole test in the allotted time period. Knowing how to read instructions carefully is also critical.
The high costs of college often mean that "starving student" isn't just a figure of speech. Whether you are going away to a university or staying close to home, it is important to give some thought to how you will cover tuition and other college costs, as well as your living expenses, before starting your degree. Planning ahead and then sticking to a budget can help you reduce stress and be able to focus on your studies. Speaking to a financial aid officer can help you understand the total cost of a degree program, and to gauge what financial aid options may be open to you.