Attend Class Regularly!
Attendance is one of the most important factors contributing to failure/success. Professors may not have an attendance policy, but they expect you to be there!
Realize the Differences Between High School and College
In college, no one tells you to do "homework" You are expected to study throughout the semester.
In college, there may not be an attendance policy. You are expected to attend every class!
In college, material will be covered at 2 - 3 times the pace of high school.
In college, you are expected to keep up with all assigned readings.
In college, you are expected to think on your own, just reading and "memorizing" information don't work anymore.
Prepare for every class.
You must read the chapters before going to class. Have you ever tried taking notes when you had no clue what the instructor was talking about? If you read the material before, you'll have prior knowledge of it and it will make more sense.
Review After Each Class
You should review your notes after every class. Have you ever looked at your notes 3 weeks later and thought "what in the world does that mean?" By reviewing your notes immediately following class, you can clearly define important terms and highlight important information.
Create A Study Schedule
Ideally, you should study 2 hours for every hour you are in class. This is your full time job - treat it as such! Study 50 minutes/break for 10 minutes.
Know Your Learning Environment
Do you study better in the morning, afternoon or night? Do you study better alone or with a friend? Do you study better with background noise or total silence?
Prioritize
If you don't have a calendar/day planner of some kind - find something that works for you! It is important to write down due dates on assignments and tests so that you can adequately prepare for them.
Everything In Moderation
Remember the reason you are here: education. Socializing is important and can be incorporated successfully into your college life. Remember: Moderation.
Be Healthy
Face it: College is Stressful! Control it by eating right, exercising, (visit the Rec Center), getting enough sleep, and limiting any "bad" influences. Living in residence halls often means you are exposed to more illnesses.
Seek Assistance
Have you visited your professor during his/her office hours?
Have you asked a classmate to study with you?
Have you visited one of ECU's many resources (math lab, chem. lab, Academic Enrichment Center, Writing Center, etc)?
Consult With Your Academic Advisor Regularly - especially if you are having difficulty.
Sign Up For COAD 1000
The objective of COAD 1000 is to assist Freshmen in being successful in their first year of college and beyond. Topics covered in this course include understanding the transition from high school to college, student development and motivation, goal-setting, learning styles, memory development, listening skills, note-taking skills, communication, critical - thinking skills, ECU academic rules and regulations, and career development issues.
COAD 1000 is taught by academic advisors and student life personnel trained in understanding college student development and the academic and social issues encountered by college students.
Freshmen who would like to add COAD 1000 to their schedule may search for it on banner Self Service as Counselor and Adult Education. If you have questions or need assistance in registering, please contact your academic advisor.
