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Bella P.

Improve Your College Academics in 4 Steps

Series: If I Could Do College Again


College is often described as the time to explore, make mistakes, and learn life lessons. As I reflect on my college years, I realize there are things I would have either done differently or things that I urge others to continue doing. 


Here are 4 strategies I tell incoming freshmen or current students to ultimately succeed in school: 


Your 4-year plan

Utilize your academic advisors and/or counselors. They understand the school system and can guide you on which courses to take, whether prerequisites or courses more specific to your career goals. 


Build relationships with your advisors—they can get a better idea of who you are and suggest the best course of action. Additionally, create a Google Sheet or Excel document that maps out your entire college career, including course names/titles, units, terms/years, as well as alternate courses in case you do not get into your first-choice classes. Need a free template? Check out the bottom of this post. 


Taking Notes

In the past, I used to try and type everything I saw on the screen or board. However, this approach left me feeling disengaged in class—it felt more like an online typing game than learning. Before class begins, read your class syllabus. Actually read it. Do not skim it and only focus on how much attendance is calculated in your grade. Instead, focus on the section that breaks down the course into chapters or units. These often include the course objectives and key concepts to understand, which you can use as leaders in your notes to stay focused on what you are learning. Here are some specific strategies I used depending on the class:

Create Your Own Questions

  • Based on key concepts, try to anticipate questions your professor might ask on the exam.

  • Write these questions immediately after class while the material is still fresh.

Use Quizlet During Class

  • If your professor shares slides, use class time to create flashcards with key concepts.

  • Keep two tabs open—one for notes and one for Quizlet—to build your study materials on the spot.

Listen to the Professor, Not Just the Slides

  • If slides are provided, download them and focus on additional details your professor shares during the lecture.

  • Annotate the slides on an iPad or printed paper, adding insights that aren’t on the slides.

Utilizing Whiteboards and Study Rooms

  • Reserve a study room. either solo or with a friend that is in the same class (this part is important).

  • Take turns teaching each other the material by writing down concepts and drawing diagrams on the board. 

  • If you can teach the material, you will solidify your understanding and be more prepared for exams.


Networking with Professors 

At times, I hesitated to ask for help, fearing it would be a burden. However, I learned to ask for help and take advantage of my professor’s office hours. It was not until my senior year when I started to take office hours seriously. These moments were invaluable— not only to receive clarification or edits on your paper but also for building connections with experts in your field.


Talk to your professors about their current research projects. Identify professors whose research aligns with your interests, and consider reaching out about joining their team. This experience not only strengthens your resume but also enhances your skills working within a professional research environment. Employers will view you as proactive, collaborative, and capable of managing tasks in a team setting.


Studying Abroad

Many universities offer study abroad programs where students may take courses that contribute to their degrees while experiencing life in another country. I highly encourage you to take this opportunity. It may seem daunting, but there are various options depending on your needs and comfort levels. For example, my alma mater, Pepperdine University, offered three types of study abroad programs: one academic year, one semester, or a 1-2 month summer program. 


Taking courses in another country is transformative. You learn to be more independent, meet new friends, experience a different culture, and build a bookcase full of memories. Future employers and graduate schools recognize the value of these experiences; they show that you are flexible, adaptable, and willing to take on new challenges.


Read more about my study abroad experience here


Your college years are a unique time for growth, exploration, and setting the foundation for your future. By making use of advisors, adopting effective study habits, building relationships with professors, and seeking experiences beyond the classroom, you will be well-prepared for success both academically and professionally. Start planning now. Start changing now. Do not wait for next year or next month. Change now and take advantage of the resources available to you. Make your future self proud!


Click here for the free template!

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