Being a month into school, I figured it is time to tell you what I have found to help me be the most successful when it comes to academics. So really, there are going to be many tips within this one blog. It is kind of like a double-stuffed Oreo, except cooler, because you are getting more than double what you would usually get.
Tip #1: Study in the library (do not study in the dorms).
It's wise to learn early on that studying in your dorm is not a good idea. Since people live there, they will find it as the place to be themselves and have fun. Unfortunately, that can distract you from getting work done. It's not like home where you had several rooms in your house in which people could do whatever they wanted and not distract anyone else. You won't get much done if you try to study in your dorm.
The library is a great place for studying because it's quiet, and everyone's there for the same purpose: to study. I've gotten a lot done when I go the library, so I'd definitely recommend it.
Taking friends to the library to study with you can be helpful as well, but I'd be a little more cautious on this one. While friends can be helpful, they can also be a huge distraction. Choose wisely. :)
Tip #2: Plan out your homework for the week.
I actually just started doing this this week, but I've already found it to be extremely beneficial. On Sunday I planned out what I had to do each day so that I would not have to cram all my homework and studying at the last minute. It makes it less overwhelming, and makes you feel better because you actually get things done.
Tip #3: Study/review with friends.
When it comes to exams, studying with friends can be one of the best ways to do it. Talking out what you've been learning and helping each other remember all the necessary information can be really effective. As mentioned before, choose friends wisely. Some will help you study. Others... will not.
Tip #4: Do all the reading.
Believe it or not, most of your "homework" in college is do a ton of reading. Make sure you read the material when you're supposed to (as quizzes might come up) and read it as thoroughly as you can. You might not understand it all, but it's better than not reading it at all. Highlight and mark your books when you need to. Interacting with the text is extremely beneficial because it helps you understand it better.
-------------------------------------------------------------
These are all the tips I can think of for now, and trust me--there will be plenty more to come. If you do all these things (or more importantly, what works best for you), you'll be sure to succeed academically.
