The factors that cause a college student to do well in school are virtually all controllable by the student. The first is the choice of college; it should be one that offers the types of classes and level of intensity consistent with the studentÆs desires and abilities. If the student has already chosen a major, the college should have an excellent department in that subject and good resources and programs associated with it.
Next is the studentÆs study habits. Even someone with mediocre ability can do well if he knows how to study effectively and applies himself diligently. A knowledge of how to take good notes, take tests, and write good papers is critical and must be developed if it is not already part of the studentÆs background. Effective study habits include the ability to juggle assignments from several classes at once without losing sight of due dates, so time management is a key skill. Therefore, a student who can pace himself and make consistent progress will do better than one who is always in a state of panic for having waited until the last minute to complete assignments.
A factor that can make all the difference between a successful student and an unsuccessful one is the ability to focus. Students who cannot resist the temptation to allow distractions to sidetrack them are far less likely to succeed in college. College offers an abundance of interesting activities that are a valid part of college life, and that element of fun is important for keeping a balanced approach to studies. However, a student that can never say ônoö to the next party, date, or frat gathering will rapidly be in trouble academically. The ability to concentrate in class, focus when doing homework, and keep oneÆs priorities in order when choosing how to spend time can make a vast difference between the success of students, even if they are otherwise of equal ability.
The ability to get along with people is also a key facto...