Page 136 - Keys to College Success

student PROFILE

Sade Gantt

MONTCLAIR STATE UNIVERSITY, MONTCLAIR, NJ

About me: sure I have all the questions for that segment of reading to be
I entered college right out of discussed. Then during class I make sure to answer those ques-
high school, but soon became tions. This helps me prepare for the next section of reading as
pregnant. Shocked by the news well as upcoming tests.
and challenged by the experi- Being in the military also brought out the organizer in me,
ence of pregnancy and motherhood, I struggled with college for helping me to become more focused and disciplined in setting
a year and a half, withdrawing frequently from classes or just goals. I have a different folder for each subject and attached to the
not going. When my daughter was seven months old I decided folder is the class syllabus - trust me, it really helps me make sure
that something needed to change. At a job fair I discovered the the work gets done when and how it is supposed to.
U.S. Army, and signed my contract soon after I met with recruit-
ers. After a year’s tour of duty I came home and returned to What will help me in the workplace:
school, receiving my A.S. in Education and then pursuing my B.A. Both school and the military have given me the discipline of being
at MSU. on time, staying alert, and paying attention. My experience has
also taught me the importance of working toward a goal, which
What I focus on: allows me to plan ahead of time so that I can still have time to play
I am a strong verbal-linguistic learner, and since I majored in and enjoy life. The Army saying “Be all you can be” instilled in me
English, I have plenty of books to read. While reading, I highlight a drive to succeed that will help me be there for my daughter,
words I don’t understand as well as important quotes and sec- achieve my degree, and make a difference in the world we live in
tions. I use a different color highlighter for each subject so that I as an American soldier.
can manage my loose papers. The night before a class, I make

■ Determine when and how to disclose your status. When or if you tell people about
your disability is up to you. You may disclose it prior to enrollment (if you need
help with applying), at the time of enrollment or during a course (if you know or
realize you will need accommodations for your coursework), after a diagnosis (if
you are diagnosed during your course of study), or never (if you believe you can
manage on your own). 10
■ Be a dedicated student. Be on time and attend class. Read assignments before class.
Sit where you can focus. Review notes soon after class. Spend extra time on assign-
ments. Ask for help.
Finally, build a positive attitude. Focus on what you have achieved and on how far
you have come. Rely on support from others, knowing it will give you the best possible
chance to succeed.

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