Page 43 - Keys to College Success

KEY 1.2 Everyone on your educational team has responsibilities.

TEAM MEMBERS RESPONSIBILITIES
You, the student ■ Define personal academic goals
■ With guidance, plan out coursework and major
■ Attend class on time, consistently, and with necessary supplies
■ Complete readings, assignments, and projects
■ Independently manage your time and schedule
■ Interact respectfully with peers and faculty
■ Pay bills (tuition, room, board) on time
1 Instructors ■ Provide a detailed syllabus to students
CHAPTER ■ Teach material as outlined on the syllabus
■ Be on time and prepared for class meetings
■ Be available to consult with students
■ Evaluate students fairly and respectfully
■ Motivate students to learn
Advisors ■ Meet with students regularly (usually once per term at minimum)
■ Assist students in mapping out a plan for majoring and coursework
■ Help students who want to change majors
■ Assist with student conflicts and issues

School (administration and employees) ■ Maintain safe, clean, and functional school buildings and property
■ Provide needed coursework and skilled instructors
■ Provide for nonacademic student needs (physical and mental health services, social
opportunities, career counseling, etc.)

Family ■ Emotional support
■ Often, financial support

Take advantage of those hours to ask specific questions about coursework or just to
get to know your instructors better. Contact your advisor more than just once a term.
Set up a communication plan with your family so you feel supported but not over-
whelmed by texts and e-mails. Contact your dean or other administrators if there is a
problem they can help you solve.
Collaboration. No student ever gets to the finish line alone. Although you will be the
one holding the diploma, many team members will be able to share in your victory.
Your instructors, advisors, and administrators really want you to succeed—especially
in a climate in which over half of college students enrolled in four-year programs won’t
graduate after four years. 3

Conflict management. Issues may arise with other students, an instructor, or others
with whom you interact regularly. Don’t let your educational team fall apart over a
conflict. Address the conflict directly or bring in another team member—an advisor,
dean, or resident advisor (RA)—to help. Get the problem on the table and work
through it so you can refocus your energy on your goals.

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