On the first day of classes I can stand outside my office and pick out the students who didn't participate in that program because they look lost, said Debi Jordan, associate director of admissions at Western Kentucky University. And the students who did participate feel like they own the school. That might mean visiting the writing center, taking a course in study skills or talking to an academic adviser if you are uncertain about your major. And don't wait until you're failing the class before you go talk to a teacher about it. You'll make new friends and feel more connected to your new school.
Many dorms have sign-up sheets for study groups.
You might find that helping someone else learn material is a great way to learn it yourself. It will take a while to feel comfortable with all aspects of college life. Manage your time. Students should be careful not to overschedule themselves, said Ed Ford, public relations director at Berea College. Remember, everyone on that campus was a freshman once.