Many schools offer classes that teach freshmen how to develop study skills and make the most of their time in college. Enrolling in a first year seminar could improve your grades if you're struggling. For instance, students at the University of South Carolina typically achieve a 3.26 grade point average after completing freshmen seminar, which is higher than the grade point average of students who don’t take the course. Studies by the ACT organization indicate that freshmen seminars are one of the most effective retention strategies for keeping freshmen in school.
Students can encounter serious academic difficulties when they work too many hours, which limits available study time. Freshmen are often surprised at the amount of time required to complete reading assignments, finish small group projects and write papers. Successful students make school a priority. Some students work full-time in the summer in order to save money for tuition and living expenses. During the academic year, it's advisable to work less than 20 hours per week. An ideal job offers flexible hours and an opportunity to gain skills applicable to your chosen profession.
If you weren't a strong student in high school, you may need to work harder to compete with classmates. Based on a study of California students, researchers Geiser and Santelices determined that high school grades are the best predictor of academic performance in college. By taking difficult courses in high school, students learn how to write, memorize facts, analyze information and meet deadlines. Other factors that correlate with good grades in college include motivation and perseverance. If you're struggling, promptly seek tutoring.
Some freshmen get caught up in the party scene and neglect their studies due to the distraction of alcohol and drugs. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism suggests that the choices freshmen make about alcohol and drugs will play a significant role in whether they drop out. NIAAA indicates that 25 percent of college students experience academic problems due to drinking. NIAAA suggests that alcohol and drug use is associated with missed classes, procrastination on assignments, loss of focus and overall lower grades.
Students who aren’t engaged in campus activities are less likely to enjoy the college experience and take advantage of support services. Purdue University suggests that students who are involved in co-curricular activities are more successful than non-involved students because they develop time management skills, form study groups, learn about campus resources and find mentors. What’s more, students gain leadership and interpersonal skills from sports or club participation, which employers expect from college graduates.