Lisa Micele, director of college counseling at the University of Illinois Laboratory High School offers success tips on a recent interview on Here and Now with Jeremy Hobson, NPR, August 25, 2016.
- Be a self-advocate. Have a voice and state what you want and what you need. Ask for things. Ask for help. Reach out to people.
- Get to know your Professors, Resident Advisor and meet with your Academic/Faculty Advisor(s) regularly.
- Step out of your comfort zone, and sign-up for ONE new activity! Try something different.
- There is no shame in being "undeclared." College is a time to explore. Embrace it. Take time to select & confirm your major.
- Consider study abroad. Take advantage of all your college has to offer.
- Manage your time well.
- Practice self-care. (Eat well; exercise; make time for yourself; sleep!)
- Consider taking some general education classes at your community college during summer – to free up your schedule and save money.
- Know the many resources on your new campus. You are paying a student fee for services. These include: wellness/mental health supports; academic resources; career services; peer assistance resources; cultural resources.
- Adopt a Growth Mindset: embrace challenges; persist in the face of setbacks; know that effort leads to mastery; learn from constructive criticism; find lessons/inspiration from others (Carol Dweck, Ph.D.)
- Make academics a priority — always attend class, but plan a balanced life filled with social activities as well.
- Follow your moral compass.
- Seek comfort from family & high school friends while making a real effort to reach out to new friends.
- Be realistic. You will make mistakes. You will be confused and overwhelmed. College is an exciting time of change; meeting new people; self-discovery. Embrace the highs & lows.
- Reduce your social media presence OR when you post, be REAL!
- Don’t spend too much time being “distracted” by technology.
- Explore your new campus! Find places you like to study; restaurants you enjoy; events in the surrounding town.
- Be comfortable saying “No” to bad choices and over-extending yourself.
- Communicate with your family about keeping in touch/planning visits to campus or coming home. Be proactive and discuss expectations.
- Enjoy the journey. Be good to yourself. You can do this!!
