How to be a Successful Student...

1. Take responsibility for your learning.  Responsibility is recognition that in order to succeed you must make decisions about your priorities, your time, and your resources.
   
   
2. Ask Questions….if you don’t A.S.K. you don’t G.E.T.  Simple as that.  Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification and direction.  And even if you are afraid…ask anyway!  It’s the only way.  And every time you ask, you get better at it and your confidence increases.
   
   
3. Read Section 2 in your student handbook for advice from previous online students…you’ll find helpful information from those who have “been there and done that”.
   
   
4. Attend weekly study support sessions. This is an opportunity to ask questions, meet fellow students, be challenged by other ideas and view points.  Your study leader and classmates can help you with understanding assignments or how to use the online system.
   
   
5. Have a plan.  You’ll need to make a commitment to keeping a regular schedule for coursework in order to keep up.  Think of it as “reserved time”.  When are you fresh and attentive?  Staying focused on your courses is vital.  Select this link and complete the 24 hour, weekly & long range scheduling forms to help you with this task. You have to make time for success!
   
   
6.  Keep at it….even when it’s hard. Very little that’s worthwhile is easy.  Use resources whether they are on line or in person.  And don’t delay…when it’s hard, it’s easier to catch up or get clarification if you get assistance early.  The gap is smaller then than if you wait too long.
   
   
7. Use resources. This is one that’s sometimes easier said than done.  First you have to know what the resources are; and sometimes you have to set aside any feelings of inadequacy; remember all successful people know how to get the assistance they need; and then follow through with action to use them.  The rewards are worth it!
   
   
8. Never assume.  If you aren’t sure about something don’t assume.  Double check those dates, make sure there have been no changes, reread your syllabus for the information, talk to others to make sure.  Relying on a vague memory or an assumption can get you into unnecessary trouble.

Contact Information:

For additional information
contact Mark Ramon at
Grays Harbor College
360-538-4090
Toll free: 1-800-562-4830 ext 4090
Fax: 360-538-4293
E-mail: mramon@ghc.edu

Partnerships:

The Evergreen State College

Washington Online