Registration

› Make sure that you have the prerequisite (necessary) knowledge for any course that you enroll in, especially courses in math and science.

› Do not enroll in three heavy-duty mathematics and science courses during your first semester.

› Try to ensure that you have a balance of coursework from a variety of departments.

› Make sure that you have a reasonable credit load during your first semester. We suggest 13 to 15 credits to begin.

› Work with an academic advisor when signing up for your courses.

Study Habits

› You will probably need to study a minimum of three hours for every credit hour per week.

› Expect to work harder in college than in high school.

› Try to form study groups with other students in the class to learn what is going on in the class and to get help with homework.

› Remember that you learn by speaking, reading, writing, and listening — not just one or two of the above.

› Always attend class. A good study habit is to rewrite your notes the same day of the class. If you are unable to attend, make sure that you receive the notes from another student.

› Try to figure out what will be on the exam by inquiring of the professor, paying attention to any quizzes, and take advantage of the professor or teaching assistant's office hours for additional guidance.

› If you are having trouble in a course go immediately to the professor, teaching assistant, or tutor for assistance.

› If you need to drop a course you will need to formally withdraw — Don't assume that because you have not attended the class that you will automatically be dropped.

Time Management

› Don't sign up for too many extracurricular activities until you are certain that you can manage them with your academic work.

› Try to limit social time with friends until after your schoolwork is finished.

› Use the time between classes productively to get academic work accomplished.

› Be sure to get enough sleep, eat well, and get some physical exercise. All night study marathons without food cannot be sustained over time.

› Use the opportunity to attend college and university events such as concerts, but be selective and manage your time.

Money Management

› Try not to take advantage of the credit cards that are sent to students in the mail. You will find it very difficult to pay back what you owe. If you feel that you need a credit card, try to limit the amount that you can charge.

› Try to live as close to campus as possible. This allows you to participate in the life of the campus, have easier access to class, professors, study groups, and libraries, and save on time and money for transportation.

› Limit your outside work hours to ten hours a week if possible. We are aware that your families often need financial support, but you will be a greater assistance with a college education. Dont sacrifice your schooling and your physical and mental health while trying to meet the needs of everyone.

› If you can avoid having a car, do it. The cost of maintaining a car, paying insurance, and paying for parking is prohibitive.

Social Life

› Try to avoid going home on the weekends. Instead, you should concentrate your efforts on campus.

› Many families have not had the college experience and do not understand the demands on your time. Consequently, you may not be able to attend every family event or meet all of your familys expectations.

› Try to socialize with friends who are performing well in school and whose goals are to graduate with good grades.

Expectations

› Set your personal standards high! Don't be discouraged. Always keep trying!

› The first semester of adjustment will be the most difficult. You must maintain your coursework daily even though papers and tests may not be due or scheduled immediately.

› It is easier to begin with a good grade point average than to try to dig yourself out of a hole. You will also be required to have a good GPA in order to have your scholarship renewed as well as to be eligible for your major.

› If you are planning on attending graduate school, law school, medical school, college of education, and any training beyond your undergraduate degree, you must have an excellent college record. If you need assistance in understanding what is required for certain postgraduate programs, please seek help from your mentor, advisor, or professors.

› You need to take a minimum number of credits each year (approximately 26) and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 in order to continue to receive your scholarships as well as your state and federal aid. In addition, if you fall below these levels you may be asked to leave your college or university.