I am not special. I am not of above average intelligence. I simply have a lot of grit. Getting good graded in college has been something I have come to expect of myself. It is not something I stress over or pressure myself about I simply work hard.
Starting college is going to challenge you in ways high school never has. You will experience more freedom and more responsibility than ever before and it will all be up to you. There is no magic sauce to success but here are a few things I have learned along the way.
“It’s going to be really hard. You are going to struggle and have days you don’t want to get anything done. Go to class anyway.
Go to those lame campus activities. I know trivia night doesn’t sound all that fun but trust me, it’s worth meeting new friends.
Attempt to make one connection in every class. I’m not saying they need to be your new best friend but get their number or Snapchat. If you miss a class (which you REALLY should try not to do) you will want to have someone in the class you can get notes from. Be that person for other people too. You’re all just trying to get through.
Group study. I know it sounds lame to start a study group but if this is a difficult class it could be the difference between passing or failing. Choose who you study with wisely.
It’s not like high school, you REALLY need to take notes. Find something that flows for you. If it’s typing then type. If it’s drawing then draw. I HIGHLY suggest writing them out the “old fashioned way”.
When you get an assignment just do it. As soon as you can. Take it back to your dorm and get it done. Things will come up and your friends will want you to come out with them later. Don’t make yourself choose to get your work done over some activity because I promise, you’ll skip the work.
Please read your textbooks. They are really expensive. Don’t use them as a glorified paperweight. Take notes from the textbook not just from your lectures.
Try to find someone that has taken that class before you. It’s nice to know what you’re getting into. Some professors will be great and others may be nightmares, it’s nice to know ahead of time.
Breathe it all in. Enjoy this. Work hard.
I’m so proud of you.”
XOXO, Madison
The Madison Olivia 