Welcome to college! The textbooks are bigger, the expectations are higher and the coffee is definitely stronger. We get it, academics can feel like a lot to handle at first. Don’t panic, with a little organization, some solid tips and a dash of humor, you’ll be navigating those lectures, assignments and exams like a senior. Remember, no one has it all figured out on day one.
Let’s get you on the right track.
This is part of the guide series Your Ultimate College Survival Guide, check out the full series for more tips.
We know. Mornings are hard. But showing up makes everything else easier. You’ll stay in the loop, hear hints about the next exam and maybe even make a good impression. A bonus, you won’t need to rely entirely on group chats with blurry notes that all have a phone shadow and someone’s head blocking the screen.
Here are some tips if you do have to miss class:
Office hours are one of the most criminally underrated tools in college. They're not just for when you're failing. Whether you have a question about the class material or want to discuss a past exam, pay a visit to your professor and have a discussion. They have office hours for a reason! No need to have something 'smart' to say. Just show up and be curious.
Your professors are not coordinating due dates with each other. That means three papers and a midterm can all hit the same week. Take 20 minutes to input all your important deadlines into a calendar or planner during the first week of school. Whether it's digital or on paper, keeping track of your deadlines in one place will save you from the "I forgot!" panic.
Bonus tip: Color-code your assignments by class. You’ll be amazed at how satisfying it is to cross something off your to-do list.
The task “Write research paper” is extremely overwhelming. Breaking down the assignment into smaller tasks is much more manageable. Start early (or early-ish).
Break it down into steps like:
By starting early and tackling it bit by bit, you’ll feel way more in control.
Let’s face it: Cramming the night before isn’t a sustainable long-term strategy. While it might work in a pinch, studying over time is much more effective. Plus, regular study sessions help reinforce your memory, making things easier to recall during exams.
Want a deep dive on study hacks? Check out our guide on How To Study for more tips.
No one expects you to know everything. If you’re stuck, ask.
Use tutoring services, talk to your professor or join a study group. The most successful students are the ones who actually use the help that’s available.
Need tips on how to email your professor? Check out our full guide on How to Email Your Professor.
Good news: You don’t have to be a literary genius to write an A+ paper.
Here’s how to get through without crying in a stairwell (we’ve all been there):
Step 1: Don’t panic. Step 2: Let’s fix it.
We’ve all been there. You studied, showed up and gave it your best shot only to get your test back with a lower score than you hoped for. It’s disappointing, maybe even overwhelming. Relax. Even geniuses have off-days (Einstein probably flunked a quiz or two).
Check out our guide on what to do When a Test Doesn’t Go as Planned.
This is one of several in the Your Ultimate College Survival Guide series. Dive into the full collection for more expert insights!
It’s never too late to take the first step, unless it’s the night before classes start (we don’t recommend that). If you are thinking of college, now’s the perfect time to apply and set your future in motion.
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