“In high school, you are told exactly what to study, and what will be on the exam. University is a lot different,” Samantha Curry, a second year student at StFX warns. “They don’t baby you.” This sentiment is supported by Suzanne Russell, an academic adviser at StFX, who explains that a popular comment she hears from first year students is: “When I was in high school I hardly had to study, and I got really good grades, but it’s not like that here.” The good thing about this common misconception is that it can be easily fixed with a few tips on how to succeed academically without going crazy. Before you make the same mistakes most of us did in our first year, follow some of these tips on what not to do, to ensure you are successful throughout your first year of university.

Do not have a collection of quart bottles in your dorm room. Although to many students this is quite impressive, it probably means you haven’t been dedicating that much time to your studies. Plan your nights out accordingly, making sure you leave a good balance between work and play, with an emphasis on work. Curry remarked that, “It is easy to get distracted by other students wanting to party, but you have to remember that everyone has different programs which means different schedules.”

Do not leave your work to the last minute. Leaving your work until the day before it’s due hardly ever works out for the best. Time management is your key to success at university. Russell warns, “At the top of [your] list would be to stay on top of readings and other course work from day one! It is a short semester, things move very quickly, and getting behind on day one keeps you behind.” Don’t fall behind.

Do not stay in bed all day. Although nights at the pub can get a little crazy, it is very important that you attend all your classes, because this is where you learn exam material.
Russell says one of the main reasons students don’t do as well in their first year is because they aren’t studying both the class notes and the text. Many professors put information on the exam that was only mentioned in class. This is also a great way to create a relationship with your professors and show them your potential and dedication.

Remember professors’ office hours. Russell says far too many students do not take advantage of the professor’s time and help. Although sometimes they seem intimidating, professors want you to succeed and are always there to help you.

Do not make Facebook your new best friend. This is one of the best procrastination tools out there, but it will never further you academically. Although Facebook is a great way to keep in touch with friends back home, and creep the hottie in Morrison Hall, Facebook takes away from what could be quality study time. Curry believes one of the worst study habits is to have Facebook, or any kind of social networking open while you’re trying to study. Allow yourself a certain amount of time on Facebook or msn a day. This will help you manage your study time and allow for less distraction.

Do not drive yourself crazy with studying. Although studying is very important, taking a break from your work is just as crucial. If you are following your study schedule, and using time management, it allows for more break opportunities. Not many students like studying on a Friday night when everyone else is out partying. Make sure you take the time to go out with some friends, go to the gym, or join a club; anything to balance your hectic study schedule.

Do not ignore the resources available to you. X has a number of different resources that help students thrive academically. Resources on campus include the Writing Centre, academic advising, professors, counseling centre, Chaplin, and the Students’ Union tutoring program. Curry participated in the Writing Centre’s Excel program, and says that the one-on-one time you get with professors really helps you in your first year. Students who take advantage of these resources allow for a greater opportunity for success.

It’s true; university is not like high school. However, Russell says with the right balance, study habits and attending classes, students are able to academically succeed without going crazy. Curry found that if you were able to balance and not procrastinate you will have positive results All these tips will allow first year students to stay on top of their work, while having an amazing year.