The following content is created in consultation with Morton College. It does not reflect the work or opinions of NBC Chicago editorial staff. To learn more about Morton College, visit morton.edu.
With multiple classes and the craziness of daily life—appointments, meetings, credit card payments—chaos can ensue, fast. Find an organizational tool that works for you, and stick with it. Whether that’s a weekly handwritten planner or a simple ‘To Do’ list on your phone, staying organized can help you manage your time wisely and remember all of your assignments. Plus, making note of important dates and events (like birthdays) can help you remember the things to look forward to.
Study smarter
Consistency is key in academics. With regular studying, you’re more likely to retain the material at hand, and you’ll feel more confident come test day. Be more efficient with note taking, by writing down the main points from a lecture instead of every word. And instead of falling asleep while reading your textbook, get engaged with the SQ3R method (survey, question, read, write and review) for optimal comprehension. You won’t need to pull another all-nighter ever again.
Reach out
Successful students often go the extra mile and see professors outside of class. Make an appointment or stop by during their designated office hours (especially if the class is a huge lecture) and make regular visits. Not only does it help the professor put a face to the name, but it also helps you foster a positive, professional relationship. You’ll feel more comfortable asking questions about the next reading or even requesting a recommendation. Thank you notes go a long way, too.
Pursue your passion
The world is your oyster! Find what interests you. Whether you know exactly what you want to do with your degree, or you’re still exploring potential career options, this is the time to discover your passions, be it graphic design or nursing or studying abroad. Invest in an education you’re excited about—not one where you’ll dread going to class.
Challenge yourself
Whether you’re just starting school or returning to classes after a hiatus, this is a major life step. Embrace the challenge by taking full advantage of all that your college has to offer. From taking an interesting class outside of the required curriculum to joining a new club, there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the collegiate experience and step outside your comfort zone. Education should be about being well rounded.
Manage your money
Now that you’re in school, you’ll be balling—and studying—on a budget. Stay on top of your tuition fees, loans and interest rates, and keep your eye out for scholarships. Reach out to your financial aid office for guidance and support, so you don’t have to tackle it all alone. And find small ways to save money: meal prepping instead of eating out, buying used vs. new textbooks. Getting a degree shouldn’t mean breaking the bank.
Make connections
College is a unique community—made up of people with all types of personalities, from all kinds of backgrounds. Appreciate this diversity and find time make connections on campus. Say hi to other students in class and around campus. You’ll start to see familiar faces and maybe even find your next study partner. Even if you’re attending school part time, enjoy being present in the collegiate environment for the moments you are on campus.
Stay organized
With multiple classes and the craziness of daily life—appointments, meetings, credit card payments—chaos can ensue, fast. Find an organizational tool that works for you, and stick with it. Whether that’s a weekly handwritten planner or a simple ‘To Do’ list on your phone, staying organized can help you manage your time wisely and remember all of your assignments. Plus, making note of important dates and events (like birthdays) can help you remember the things to look forward to.
Stay organized
With multiple classes and the craziness of daily life—appointments, meetings, credit card payments—chaos can ensue, fast. Find an organizational tool that works for you, and stick with it. Whether that’s a weekly handwritten planner or a simple ‘To Do’ list on your phone, staying organized can help you manage your time wisely and remember all of your assignments. Plus, making note of important dates and events (like birthdays) can help you remember the things to look forward to.
Study smarter
Consistency is key in academics. With regular studying, you’re more likely to retain the material at hand, and you’ll feel more confident come test day. Be more efficient with note taking, by writing down the main points from a lecture instead of every word. And instead of falling asleep while reading your textbook, get engaged with the SQ3R method (survey, question, read, write and review) for optimal comprehension. You won’t need to pull another all-nighter ever again.
Reach out
Successful students often go the extra mile and see professors outside of class. Make an appointment or stop by during their designated office hours (especially if the class is a huge lecture) and make regular visits. Not only does it help the professor put a face to the name, but it also helps you foster a positive, professional relationship. You’ll feel more comfortable asking questions about the next reading or even requesting a recommendation. Thank you notes go a long way, too.
Pursue your passion
The world is your oyster! Find what interests you. Whether you know exactly what you want to do with your degree, or you’re still exploring potential career options, this is the time to discover your passions, be it graphic design or nursing or studying abroad. Invest in an education you’re excited about—not one where you’ll dread going to class.
Challenge yourself
Whether you’re just starting school or returning to classes after a hiatus, this is a major life step. Embrace the challenge by taking full advantage of all that your college has to offer. From taking an interesting class outside of the required curriculum to joining a new club, there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the collegiate experience and step outside your comfort zone. Education should be about being well rounded.
Manage your money
Now that you’re in school, you’ll be balling—and studying—on a budget. Stay on top of your tuition fees, loans and interest rates, and keep your eye out for scholarships. Reach out to your financial aid office for guidance and support, so you don’t have to tackle it all alone. And find small ways to save money: meal prepping instead of eating out, buying used vs. new textbooks. Getting a degree shouldn’t mean breaking the bank.
Make connections
College is a unique community—made up of people with all types of personalities, from all kinds of backgrounds. Appreciate this diversity and find time make connections on campus. Say hi to other students in class and around campus. You’ll start to see familiar faces and maybe even find your next study partner. Even if you’re attending school part time, enjoy being present in the collegiate environment for the moments you are on campus.
Study smarter
Consistency is key in academics. With regular studying, you’re more likely to retain the material at hand, and you’ll feel more confident come test day. Be more efficient with note taking, by writing down the main points from a lecture instead of every word. And instead of falling asleep while reading your textbook, get engaged with the SQ3R method (survey, question, read, write and review) for optimal comprehension. You won’t need to pull another all-nighter ever again.
Reach out
Successful students often go the extra mile and see professors outside of class. Make an appointment or stop by during their designated office hours (especially if the class is a huge lecture) and make regular visits. Not only does it help the professor put a face to the name, but it also helps you foster a positive, professional relationship. You’ll feel more comfortable asking questions about the next reading or even requesting a recommendation. Thank you notes go a long way, too.
Pursue your passion
The world is your oyster! Find what interests you. Whether you know exactly what you want to do with your degree, or you’re still exploring potential career options, this is the time to discover your passions, be it graphic design or nursing or studying abroad. Invest in an education you’re excited about—not one where you’ll dread going to class.
Challenge yourself
Whether you’re just starting school or returning to classes after a hiatus, this is a major life step. Embrace the challenge by taking full advantage of all that your college has to offer. From taking an interesting class outside of the required curriculum to joining a new club, there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the collegiate experience and step outside your comfort zone. Education should be about being well rounded.
Manage your money
Now that you’re in school, you’ll be balling—and studying—on a budget. Stay on top of your tuition fees, loans and interest rates, and keep your eye out for scholarships. Reach out to your financial aid office for guidance and support, so you don’t have to tackle it all alone. And find small ways to save money: meal prepping instead of eating out, buying used vs. new textbooks. Getting a degree shouldn’t mean breaking the bank.
Make connections
College is a unique community—made up of people with all types of personalities, from all kinds of backgrounds. Appreciate this diversity and find time make connections on campus. Say hi to other students in class and around campus. You’ll start to see familiar faces and maybe even find your next study partner. Even if you’re attending school part time, enjoy being present in the collegiate environment for the moments you are on campus.
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