The transition from high school to college can be overwhelming, but here’s the thing: how to be successful in college isn’t one-size-fits-all. College success looks different for everyone because we each have unique goals, values, and priorities. Your success might not look exactly like your classmate’s, but both of you can still achieve it in your own way.
Whether you’re a full-time student on campus or juggling coursework with a job, family, or other commitments, success is absolutely within your reach. By following a few tried-and-true tips, you’ll gain the tools to navigate your academic path with confidence. In this blog, we’ll show you how to be successful in college and give you the strategies to reach your goals—no matter where you are in your journey.
- Best Strategies on How to Be Successful in College
- Do You Have to Go to College to Be Successful?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
Best Strategies on How to Be Successful in College
College is an exciting chapter in your academic, personal, and social journey. For many, it’s the first time you’ll live away from home and have full control over your decisions. While some students adjust to this new independence with ease, others might find it tricky to strike the right balance.
If you’re a first-year student, transitioning into college can feel overwhelming. Between the unknowns and the potential surprises, it’s easy to wonder where to begin. But don’t worry—everyone’s experience is different, and there are some key tips to help you navigate this new phase. If you’re thriving or feeling uncertain, learning how to be successful in college will help you embrace this exciting time and set yourself up for success both now and in the future.
1. Be curious.
Your role as a student is to learn, so stay curious! Adopting a curious mindset is an important factor of how to be successful in college. When you approach your education with curiosity and wonder, you’ll find yourself more engaged and open to new opportunities.
Trying new things in college—like enrolling in courses outside your comfort zone or exploring unfamiliar activities—can uncover passions and skills you didn’t know you had. David Quigley, an officer at Boston College, advises students to “benefit from life-altering experiences” rather than sticking only to what they already know or excel at. Taking risks early in college often leads to unexpected and positive long-term rewards.
2. Build a study schedule.
Developing good study habits is a big part of how to be successful in college. By making strong study practices a part of your daily routine, you’ll boost your confidence and efficiency as well as lower your stress about coursework. Even if your days are packed with responsibilities like work, family, or other commitments, carving out time for focused studying is key.
To start, create a consistent and structured daily plan. Dedicate a specific space for studying—somewhere free from distractions—and hold yourself accountable by sticking to your schedule. Avoid procrastination by setting clear goals for each session. Here are a few tips to help:
- Take effective notes. During lectures or while reading, focus on key concepts your instructor highlights or that are emphasized in your materials. Rewrite these ideas in your own words to make them stick, and summarize them into one or two sentences to capture the main points.
- Create mind maps. If you’re a visual learner, mind maps are a great way to connect ideas. Start with the main concept in the center of your page, then draw branches to related ideas. Use colors, images, or different line styles to make your map engaging and memorable.
- Break up study sessions. Instead of cramming for hours, try shorter study blocks with breaks in between. A quick snack, podcast, or coffee with a friend can recharge your mind, helping you retain more and stay focused when you return.
3. Discover your goals and values.
Acknowledging your goals is a powerful way to visualize your version of success and an important step in mastering how to be successful in college. By identifying what you’re working toward—a degree, a career, or personal growth—you can clarify your values and use them as motivation throughout your journey.
For example, if your goal is to earn a bachelor’s degree on time, or to improve your GPA, you should value discipline and hardwork. Keeping these values front and center can help you stay focused on your personal path and avoid the temptation to compare yourself to others.
Once you’ve defined your version of success, it’s time to create an action plan. Breaking big goals into smaller, more manageable steps can make them feel less overwhelming and give you measurable milestones to track your progress. One effective method is setting SMART goals:
- Specific. Clearly identify what you want to accomplish.
- Measurable. Decide how you’ll track your progress.
- Achievable. Set realistic goals you can control.
- Relevant. Focus on objectives that align with your idea of success.
- Time-bound. Establish a deadline to keep yourself on track.
By aligning your goals with your values and creating actionable steps, you’ll be well on your way to discovering how to be successful in college and turning your vision into reality.
4. Be intentional with your time.
Time management is a skill you practice every day, and it’s a huge part of how to be successful in college. The trick is to let your goals guide how you manage your time, prioritizing the tasks that will keep you on track toward your version of success.
That said, life doesn’t always go as planned. Some days, unexpected events pop up, and other times, procrastination takes over. In fact, one survey found that 88% of people admit to procrastinating at least an hour a day!
To stay ahead, try building flexibility into your schedule. You could set earlier personal deadlines for big projects or dedicate a few hours each week to reflect and catch up on anything that slipped through the cracks.
If you’re finding it hard to prioritize your college goals, take a step back and evaluate if your current approach aligns with your needs and lifestyle. There’s no shame in a course correction—success in college can take many forms.
For some, learning part-time or pursuing a degree online might be a better fit. The important thing is finding a way that works for you because how to be successful in college isn’t about perfection; it’s about staying adaptable and focused on what matters most.
5. Prioritize your health.
Taking care of yourself is one of the things to do in college to be successful. Your mental and physical health plays a huge role in helping you reach your goals, no matter what those goals may be. For example, not getting enough sleep can seriously impact your body’s ability to function and your ability to focus.
If you’re juggling responsibilities outside of the classroom—like work or family obligations—balancing everything can feel overwhelming. That’s why it’s so important to check in with yourself regularly. Pay attention to how you’re feeling, and if something feels off, don’t hesitate to reprioritize. Sometimes, stepping back or seeking professional support can make all the difference.
6. Engage in extracurriculars.
College is so much more than getting good grades and turning in assignments on time. It’s a chance to build deep connections and friendships that could last a lifetime. Finding that balance between academics and social life is an important part of how to be successful in college.
This is also your time to have fun, try new things, and meet people from all over the world. Modern college campuses are packed with social resources for every type of student, like sports, arts, or academic clubs—there’s likely one for you.
Think about what sparks your interest. Maybe you’ve always wanted to join a basketball club, rekindle a childhood passion, or try something completely new like swing dancing or chess. By joining a club and showing up regularly, you’ll not only take a much-needed break from studying but also connect with like-minded people. Exploring these opportunities and finding joy in the little things is another important part of how to be successful in college.
7. Take care of your relationships.
Think of college as a relay race rather than a solo marathon. To truly master how to be successful in college, you need a solid team. The relationships you create—with faculty, classmates, or others—can enhance your education and help you thrive during challenging times.
One way to build this network is by seeking out faculty members who align with your academic goals. Do some research before choosing classes, and consider if a professor could become a mentor or guide. Beyond academics, the personal connections you make can be just as impactful.
And don’t forget the people who’ve supported you even before you got to college—your family and friends. They’re part of your foundation. Taking care of what matters most is another essential step in learning how to be successful in college.
Do You Have to Go to College to Be Successful?
Decades ago, getting a college degree was seen as the golden ticket to a successful career. Tuition was only a few thousand dollars a year, making higher education an affordable way to boost your chances of landing a high-paying job. But times have changed, and now the question of how to be successful in college—and if college is even worth it—has become more complicated.
Today, the average cost of college in the U.S. is $38,270 per year, including books, fees, and living expenses. Compare that to the late 1980s when a public four-year school cost just $4,975 a year—adjusted for inflation! Tuition has grown so quickly that it now outpaces both inflation and what most families can reasonably afford.
Cost is one of the biggest reasons why many people hesitate to pursue a college degree, but it’s not the only factor. Student debt and lost time in the workforce are also concerns. If you’re weighing if a degree is the right path for you, you’re not alone.
However, there’s no denying that a college degree can open doors to incredible opportunities. One big advantage? The earning potential. According to Purdue University, people with college degrees earn over a million dollars more in their lifetime compared to those with just a high school diploma. That’s a pretty compelling reason to consider what a degree could do for your future.
But it’s not just about the money. College can also help you grow personally and professionally. Learning how to be successful in college is about gaining skills, building a network, and setting yourself up for long-term success. With the right approach, the investment in your education can truly pay off, both financially and in personal fulfillment.
Sure, the country needs to tackle economic challenges and find ways to improve living standards for everyone, including those without college degrees. But when it comes to your individual success, college remains one of the most reliable pathways to the middle class and beyond. That’s why understanding how to be successful in college is so important for securing your future.
Think about it—decades ago, some people questioned the value of attending high school, arguing it wasn’t worth the time for those from humble backgrounds. Today, the idea that everyone should finish 13 years of schooling is a given. As the economy grows more technologically advanced, you’ll likely find that 15 or even 17 years of education might become the new standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is college worth it?
Yes. According to The New York Times, Americans with four-year college degrees earned, on average, 98% more per hour in 2013 than those without a degree. That’s a huge jump from 89% just five years earlier, 85% a decade ago, and only 64% back in the early 1980s. It’s a reminder of how much value employers place on a college degree in today’s job market.
2. Is it possible to succeed in college without taking on significant student debt?
Yes, it’s possible to succeed in college while minimizing student debt. Start by researching scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. Consider attending a community college for your first two years to save on tuition, and then transfer to a four-year university. Budget wisely, avoid unnecessary expenses, and explore part-time work opportunities that fit your schedule.
3. How to balance academics with extracurricular activities?
Prioritize your commitments based on your goals and interests. Use a planner to manage deadlines and meeting schedules, and avoid overcommitting. Choose activities that align with your passions and future aspirations, but ensure you allocate enough time for coursework and self-care.
Takeaways
- Some of the best tips on how to be successful in college include building a study schedule, being intentional with your time, and engaging in extracurriculars.
- One of the best advantages of pursuing a college degree is the financial and intellectual fulfillment.
- Excited to jumpstart your college journey? We’re here to help! From crafting the perfect college application to figuring out which is the best university for you to preparing for the SAT and ACT—we got you covered. At AdmissionSight, we have more than a decade of experience in helping students like you get into their dream schools and be successful in college.
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