qualities of a successful college student

In every class, there’s always going to be one student that comes to mind when you think “successful”. However, you can be just as successful as them! Anyone can be a good college student if they have the right habits and mindset. Here are some qualities and actions that help a college student reach their fullest potential. ​

1. Be willing to make changes: When lectures get harder to understand, or when a midterm is below average, a successful student will recognize their mistakes and learn how to improve. Don’t just sit and complain about what just happened; learn from the experience and figure out how you can grow from it. Attend tutoring for the class, ask professors or teacher assistants for help, join study groups, change the study method, etc. If something isn’t working, make a change that will positively benefit you!

2. Be determined and disciplined: Everyone says they’re going to spend all day studying, but who actually does it? Hold yourself accountable to the work you want to get done and make sure you don’t fall behind on work. Don’t let yourself create different excuses to avoid school work. Create a mantra that will get you to focus and on track. Find a place with no distractions to get yourself in the right environment. Follow through with what you say you want to do. Practice self-discipline, and stay determined to your academics.

3. Be involved: Join different clubs! Apply for internships! Become a research assistant for your professor! Be involved on campus by taking part in various organizations to meet new people and gain different experiences. Being active and involved will help you grow as a person and become better with time management. Don’t let your classes be the only thing on your mind. College is more than just attending lectures and taking midterms.

4. Stay organized: A successful college student has a schedule they can follow and keeps their class materials in one place. Write your weekly schedule down on a calendar or planner, and include events or club meetings. Create an every day routine to fall into the habit of getting work done everyday. Keep your textbooks organized on your desks, or if they’re electronic, create different folders for different subjects. Make sure you write down homework assignments, test dates, presentation dates, etc.

5. Recognize your mental health and capabilities: If you’re not feeling mentally capable of studying for another hour, recognize that you deserve a break! Everyone has their own limits, and it’s in your best interest to acknowledge when you’re burnt out. Don’t force yourself to do more than you can handle; that can often lead to complicated situations. Let yourself relax every once in a while. By taking care of yourself, you’re working towards a healthy mindset that’s required to be a successful student.

NINA

Nina is a Consultant on the Study Hall College Consulting Team. Nina is currently a sophomore at UC Berkeley majoring in Chemical Biology. For more college application and essay tips, check out our Study Hall College Consulting website at: shcollegeconsulting.com.