1.      Talk Isn’t Cheap – Class participation is the key to your professor’s heart, and more than likely, a nice chunk of your grade.

2.      $$$ - Duh! Unfortunately, this is what most college students forget about.  Tuition is only the beginning.  Don’t let miscellaneous fees and the cost of books catch you off guard.

3.      Time Is Ticking Away – Be prepared for a heavy workload.  But the biggest lesson to be learned is time management.

4.      Major League – Maybe you’ve heard it, maybe you haven’t.  Don’t feel pressured to pick a major.  The most important step you can take is to get started in one particular direction.

5.      The Homework Avalanche – Concepts you learn will snowball.  All that info has got to go somewhere.  Be a sponge and soak it all up.  

6.      Previously Viewed – Used books are your friends.  By hunting down previously owned textbooks, you might actually be able to contribute to the grocery fund.

7.      Help! – A good professor is always willing to help when you ask for it.  What better person to get help from than the person who distributes grades!  

8.      Partner Up – Find a classmate who you know is reliable and create a buddy system.  Agree to exchange notes if someone misses class. 

9.      Your Friend, Mr. Syllabus – This is your greatest resource.  It’s got everything you’ll need to know, and it will keep you on schedule with your assignments, exams, and more.  

10.  Take A Break – Don’t feel bad about giving yourself short breaks while studying.  It will actually be good for your mind and body.

© 2006, Katie Jackson

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Katie Jackson is a senior at Great Lakes University majoring in music and attends The Apostolic Church of Auburn Hills, MI. When she's not burning the midnight oil studying or getting ready for Inferno, she loves to rock out with the greatest friends in the world and the greatest piano player in the world (who just happens to be her boyfriend).