1 - Thriving in College and Life

Making the Most of the College Success Course

• Increases the likelihood of success in college
• Provides knowledge of resources for help and increases likelihood of student use
• Increases student involvement in student organizations, campus activities, and interactions with faculty
• Prepares students to make better choices while they’re in college

Making the Most of the Textbook

• Provides instruction on how to do college
• Functions as a resource to answer your questions throughout this year and your college experience

The First Day of This Course

• Expect variety in your fellow students
• Expect discussion, conversation, and group work in the course
• Be open to making friends and learning from your classmates

Introducing Very Important People (VIPS)

• Students
• Instructors
• Administrators
• Advisers
• Staff members

Traditional Students

Around 18 years old, just graduated from high school

Differences between high school and college:

• Larger, more diverse student body
• More potential friends
• Familiar assumptions about people that may no longer apply
• Stepping outside your comfort zone and peer groups

Nontraditional Students

Adult students or students with a spouse, children, or a full-time job

Challenges:

• Trying to relate to younger students
• Juggling multiple responsibilities
• Learning new technology

Opportunities:

• Intrinsic motivation
• Clear purpose
• Determination and real-life experience

Veterans

Challenges:

• May have suffered visible or invisible injuries
• May observe fellow students who are less focused and serious

Opportunities:

• Knowledge and global experiences that enrich classroom discussion
• Special support services

First-Generation Student

Transitions for the student and family:

• Navigating admissions and financial aid
• Adapting to the college schedule
• Experiencing more independence from each other
• May feel additional pressure to succeed
• Special support from many colleges and universities

International Students

Transitions for the student and family:

• Navigating admissions and financial aid
• Adapting to the college schedule
• Experiencing more independence from each other
• May feel additional pressure to succeed
• Special support from many colleges and universities

Part-Time Students

Challenges:

• Financial disincentives
• Less likely to complete degrees
• Should speak with a financial aid adviser
• Should know that college is also for them

Online Learners

Significantly different experience from students who attend classes in person

Advantages:

• Convenient and reduces commute
• May be easier to participate in discussions
• May be easier to concentrate

Challenges:

• Requires more discipline, time management, and independence

Peer Leaders

Upper-level students who are also co-teachers:

• Receive leadership and communication experience
• Earn college credits or financial compensation
• Selected because of their academic success, knowledge, experience, and willingness to help new students
• Can serve as an informal academic adviser, mentor, and friend

Instructors

Have the greatest influence on students

Instructors will:

• Not tell you what, how, or when to study
• Rarely monitor your progress
• Usually have private offices and keep regular office hours when they can meet with you
• Difference between high school and college experiences

Staff Members/Administrators/Advisers

Provide all kinds of assistance and support:

• Make significant policy decisions
• Determine important financial allocations and priorities
• Help govern the institution
• May not interact with you unless you:
• Get a campus job
• Join student government

Locus of Control

• Exercising maximum control over your own life by freely making choices
• An active view rather than a passive view of self

High Impact Practices

• Educationally purposeful activities that yield high levels of learning and satisfaction
• Require greater investments of time, energy, and commitment