Strategies For Success

Strategies for Success

Align your purpose and your actions to be successful in College

  1. Decide what your goal is and write it down.  When you encounter challenges, remember your purpose and why your goal matters to you.
  2. Do the reading. Practice the ideas and concepts enough to know them not just for the test but for future classes, your career, and your life.
  3. Talk in class. You’ll be amazed at how much you learn by putting your ideas into words.
  4. Get organized. Don’t let a deadline sneak up on you because you didn’t read the syllabus.
  5. Monitor your student email account and MyMV account, especially your DegreeWorks to track your progress in completing requirements for graduation.

 

Forge good relationships with professors

  1. Professors want to help students who want to learn. Students who want to learn attend and engage in classes; they show up on time, practice good etiquette, ask questions, and always submit their best work.
  2. When you write an instructor an email, write formally. Start with a greeting such as, ”Dear Professor X.” Sign with a proper closing such as “Best,” “Regards,” or “Sincerely.” Your professionalism will be noted and reciprocated.
  3. Go to office hours. There are set times professors are in their offices and available to talk to you.  Office hours are listed on the course syllabus, posted on office doors and available on the MVCC webpage. Stop by early in the semester to introduce yourself. Some good questions to ask are: “What is the best way to approach the reading assignments?” or “Can I discuss a possible paper topic with you?

 

Be proactive about asking for help

  1. In order to receive disabilities accommodations, whether temporary or ongoing, you must first contact the Office of Accessibility Resources (OAR). Please don’t assume this office knows you want accommodations. Contact OAR as soon as possible.
  2. You might not always know the answer, but there is guaranteed to be an advisor, counselor, tutor, or mentor who can answer questions for you. Take advantage of college staff.
  3. Visit the Learning Commons for help with writing, math, and all of your other subjects. Tutors are available on both campuses and appointments are free.
  4. Get to know your Student Support Advisor in the Holistic Student Support Center and seek them out regularly with any questions or concerns you may have. 
  5. If you are having trouble with transportation, childcare, food insecurity or other non-academic needs, connect with the College Community Connection (C3) office. 

 

Expand your horizons

  1. Find organizations you’re interested in and get involved. This will help you connect your academic and social interests, and can help you develop leadership skills.
  2. Look for new experiences. Take advantage of cultural events, elective classes, and workshops on offer.

 

Plan for your future

  1. Use the Career Services Office for information about resume writing, internships and job searching.
  2. Check in with your Student Support Advisor throughout the semester to ensure you are staying on track with your academic plan.
  3. If you plan on transferring to a 4 year after graduation, start meeting with your Student Support Advisor in your very first semester.  Planning early may open the door to more opportunities.
  4. Get to know your faculty advisor. Come prepared to advising meetings with questions so you can make the most of his/her knowledge.
  5. Use financial aid wisely; think about how you might manage any loans you’re taking on once you graduate.