Page 262 - Keys to College Success

hard copy or online, is an essential tool for this purpose. Don’t let it sit unread and
unused. Keep it handy, or bookmark it, and make it your go-to resource for anything
you need to know as you navigate your first year and beyond.
Take risks that can bring you rewards. You are now the architect of your experi-
ence, the head of “team you.” Parents and guardians will not be signing you up for
clubs, checking your schedule for conflicts when you have an activity planned, and
swooping in to help you when they see you looking worried while studying. Your own
risks will bring those rewards. When you want to branch out, check the list of clubs
and organizations and contact one that looks interesting. When you need help, call or
email the counseling center, an academic center, residence life, or whatever resource
you think can best help you. Getting rewards from these resources depends on your
willingness to risk moving out of your comfort zone.

Read through the rest of the chapter with a focus on these responsibilities. You
may want to keep your student handbook available while you read, so you can refer to
school specifics.

WHAT RESOURCES AND PEOPLE
can provide support?

Most colleges introduce resources to new students. You may have an in-person or
online orientation, materials to read, and perhaps activities through this course that
connect you with resources around campus. After that time, the onus is on you to stay
aware of what’s available.
Resource offerings may change as you progress through school. Resolve to connect with
people and resources periodically throughout your college career. Your school will probably
help you with that resolution—most colleges, for example, require students to meet with
their advisors at least once per term as well as in connection with declaring a major.

Instructors and Teaching Assistants
Faculty and staff are among the most valuable, but underused, sources of help. A recent
survey of college freshmen indicated that only 25% of students asked a teacher for
advice after class throughout the term. That means that 75% did not ask an instructor
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for help, and it’s likely that at least some of those students could have used it.
Your coursework brings you into constant contact with instructors and teaching
assistants who see your work and, in small classes, may get to know you well. Consult
them to:

■ Clarify material presented in class
■ Get homework help
■ Find out how to prepare for a test
■ Ask about a paper you are working on
■ Find out why you received a particular grade on a test or assignment
■ Get advice about the department—courses, majoring—or related career areas
If you have a quick question, it’s best to grab a moment with your instructor before
or after class. When you want to speak for longer than a minute or two, make an
appointment during office hours, send an email, or leave a voicemail message. People, Resources, and Opportunities
Office hours. You can find instructors’ regular office hours on your syllabus, on office
doors, and online at the course site or department web page. Face-to-face conferences
are best for working through problems or soliciting advice. Always make an appoint-
ment for a conference.

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