Making College a Successful Experience:
Ten Things You Need to Know

A college education is a journey. For many students, the path is direct and without obstacles; for others, the route is marked by twists and turns and filled with the unexpected. However challenging, the college learning experience is a transforming time for all students-a journey of personal development and growth.

At IU Kokomo you will find an environment of support and encouragement where excellence is measured by the success of each and every student. We have many ways of assisting in your success, but there are also things you need to do to help yourself succeed. Here are ten things I would suggest:

1. Being successful in your academic work is the most important task you have as a college student. In fact, it's your "job" for the period of time you are pursuing your degree. There are many distractions in the world at large; don't let them get in the way.


2. Get to know your professors. They are there to help you learn and master course work. Ask for help if you need it-no one can read your mind and know if you need help if you don't ask for it.


3. Go to class! Class attendance really is important to the learning process. If you don't attend class on a consistent basis, you will miss out on important information and discussions, and chances are, you will begin to fall behind in your academic work. If you feel you are in the wrong class for some reason, drop it through the official withdrawal process, don't just stop attending.


4. Start your assignments when you get them, not the night before they are due. Most assignments require more work than might be imagined at first. If you don't get started right away, you may find yourself unable to complete work on time.


5. If you are having difficulty with course material, visit the Learning Enhancement Center and ask for assistance. We have a wealth of help available to you-use it!


6. If you are majoring in "undecided," visit the career services office to discuss possible career options and the majors associated with them. Ask for help in finding a mentor or an internship that will help you explore a particular career or type of work environment.


7. Look for ways to build your résumé-find ways to participate in activities that will help you develop your teamwork and leadership skills as well as your public speaking and communication skills. Employers value those skills as well as your academic knowledge.


8. Keep your personal life in order. Eat right, exercise, and get sufficient rest. Get a calendar and use it. Be careful not to incur an excessive amount of credit card debt.


9. Use the opportunity of going to college to explore new friendships. At IU Kokomo you may see familiar faces from your high school or work environment or from your community but you will also come in contact with many new faces. It's important to keep old friends, but also to make new ones as well. That's one of the best parts of the college experience.


10. Have fun! Yes, you are here to work hard and learn, but you should also take time to enjoy new experiences, extra curricular activities, and campus events.

Best wishes for a successful start!