Navigating College
College is more than classes and grades. It is about learning how to manage your time, figuring out when and how to ask for help, and making decisions that impact your future success. If you are the first person in your family to go to college, you may not have someone at home to explain how college works. This page outlines what to expect and where to go for support.
Success Pathway
1
Getting Started
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Look up how many credits your major requires to graduate.
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Make sure your class schedule fits with work and family responsibilities.
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Read every course syllabus and write down important due dates.
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Use office hours like after-school support.
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University staff are there to support you, ask questions!
3
Campus Resources
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Find out who your academic advisor is. Ask questions!
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Schedule an appointment mid-semester to plan for the next one.
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Research where to find tutoring or academic support.
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During orientation you will receive A LOT of information. Take screenshots of contact info for student support offices.
4
Building Community
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Look into cultural or identity-based spaces on campus.
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Try to connect with at least one person in each class.
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Attend events on campus and introduce yourself to other students and staff.
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Get involved! Find people with similar interests and passions.
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Find a balance between academic priorities and social activities.
5
Planning for the Future
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Try to get to know your professors. They are people too.
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Ask professors and advisors about internship opportunities.
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Read your emails! An email that looks like junk, could have opportunities inside.
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​Don't be afraid to put yourself out there, vulnerability could lead to opportunity.
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Use student loan refunds ONLY IF NECESSARY.
6
Roadblocks
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Reach out for help early. Ignoring a problem, does not make it go away.
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Many students need extra support at times. Don't let shame stop you.
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Struggling does not mean you don't belong, it means you need to revamp your approach and your support network.
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Use available resources before problems grow.
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The sooner you seek support, the more options you have.
Setbacks are a part of the process....
College success is not linear. Coming to college expecting perfection can set you up for unnecessary stress. Adjusting takes time, and setbacks are part of the process. A lower grade is not a failure, it’s an opportunity to ask questions, seek support, and grow.