A Different World . . . That You Can Navigate

So you've been in college at 4-5 weeks, depending on your institution.  If you're a new college freshman/fist-year student then you're navigating new territory.  Perhaps you have classes that feel familiar, perhaps not.  Either way, there are methods and strategies for success.

If you're not enrolled in a freshman seminar that requires this, take an assessment to determine your strengths and weaknesses.  Know when you study best, how you learn best, and the strategies that work for you.  Prepare for class, arrive on time -- if not early, take notes, ask good questions, review your notes, and start assignments in advance of the night before.  If you can, get a good night's rest.  It's imperative to being alert in class and keeping your immune system strong.

Stay tuned and keep me posted.

My Major? It's . . .

A couple of attendees at this evening's workshop were undeclared students.  One is beginning college in the fall and the other is a rising high school senior, but they are both in the same boat.  They are clear about the need for higher education, but don't know which major they should choose.

Take it from someone whose major was essentially chosen for her, find and follow your passion.  When you are working on/toward something you love it is easier to stay focused when it gets tough.  If you don't know exactly what you love or what you're good at there are resources to help you.  Every campus has counseling services (or the high school guidance counselor) who can administer what's called a career assessment.  This "test" asks a series of questions to find out where your personality and interests meet your strengths and talents.

So if you're not sure what college major to choose, don't worry.  There are people who can help you if you know where they are.  And now you know.

I Know You Don't Know Me, But . . .

A student attending this evening's workshop wanted to know how to interact with professors, particularly when you need references.  As a college freshman, you may find you need a reference or recommendation letter from a faculty member.  Before you ask for a reference, ask yourself  "What will this person have to say about me?"  You may not know it, but you are on an interview every day . . . in class . . . in practices . . . walking across campus.  Instructors and administrators notice you when don't know they're looking.  You want someone on your campus to be able to speak well of you . . . several someones, in fact.

You don't just want a reference, you want a good, strong reference.  This means the instructor must know who you are.  Make yourself stand out in a good way.  Be the student who asks questions and puts in more effort.  If you're not talkative, you're just not and instructors understand that.  However, you can stand out in other ways.  Be the person who works well in groups and positively adds to the overall atmosphere of the class.  Don't fade into the background.  If your instructor doesn't know your name, how can they provide a good reference?

Congratulations, Graduate!

Congratulations to each and every student who graduated from high school!  This is the time of year when you can relish in your accomplishments and the fact that you survived.  Some of you did it with ease and for others it was a challenge . . . doesn't matter how you did it, you graduated.  That deserves recognition.

Along with high school graduation comes taking the next step, going to the next level.  Community college, traditional college, trade school, military . . . whatever it is, it's part of your plan for the future.  If you're interested in school, I want to help you.  I'll do just that . . . in a few weeks.  For now, enjoy what you've accomplished, Graduate!