First Year Success

Here are some helpful tips to succeed during your first year in college. Give it time. Success both in and out of the classroom is never overnight. Meet as many new people as possible.

  1. Go to Class (and Participate!)

Showing up consistently and engaging in class can be one of the most powerful academic tools. Attendance improves comprehension and builds connection with professors, especially in smaller classes where your voice can truly be heard. Don’t be afraid to speak up, ask questions or get something wrong. The more actively engaged you are, the more you grow both intellectually and personally. And when you participate regularly, your professors take notice.

2. Manage Your Time Wisely

College life moves fast, so learning to juggle everything without feeling overwhelmed is a game-changer. It may feel like there’s never enough time at first, but with a bit of planning and consistency, you’ll find a rhythm that works for you.

Start by creating a schedule using a planner, Google Calendar or a dedicated scheduling app. The key is to be intentional: block out time not only for classes and study sessions but also for campus activities, work, and, crucially, personal time and breaks. For example, scheduling consistent, daily study hours over frantic cramming sessions right before exams dramatically improves your retention, reduces stress, helps to prevent burnout, and leaves plenty of time for the things you enjoy and other priorities in your life.

This kind of structured approach is the bedrock of effective time management. By proactively establishing these rhythms and honoring your scheduled commitments, you create the necessary discipline to handle the competing demands of college life and cultivate balance.

3. Ask for Help Early

One of the most common mistakes students make is waiting too long to get help. No one expects you to do it all alone, so reaching out for support sooner rather than later can reduce stress and keep you on track. Go to your writing center, math center or tutoring center for assistance. They book up quickly.

4. Get Involved on Campus

Classes are important, but some of the best memories and connections come from stepping out and trying new things on campus.

5. Take Care of Your Health

Don’t forget yourself! Keeping your mind and body in check makes everything else fall into place more easily.

Self-care isn’t optional; it’s essential. Here’s how you can prioritize it:

  • Sleep: Stick to a consistent routine. 7–9 hours a night is the sweet spot.

  • Nutrition: Use campus dining options mindfully. Don’t skip meals.

  • Exercise: go for a walk or try a group class.

  • Stress relief: Journal, pray, meditate, go for a walk, talk to someone or spend quiet time in the relaxation room.