Writing Quick Start: Analyzing Academic Success
1
Succeeding in College
IN THIS CHAPTER YOU WILL LEARN TO
- discover the factors that contribute to college success,
- learn strategies for becoming a successful student, and
- develop classroom skills for college success.
WRITING QUICK START
T
he photographs to the right show two first-year college students. One is a successful student, and the other is less so. What factors could explain why one student excels academically and the other does not?
Write a paragraph based on your experiences with education up to this point that explains which factors you think contribute to academic success and which lead to frustration. Be specific: You might discuss tasks that students need to know how to perform, offer tips, identify pitfalls, or consider nonacademic factors, such as jobs and family responsibilities.
What skills did you identify as contributing to college success? Some you may have mentioned include the following:
- being motivated and organized
- using your time effectively
- being able to focus on a task
- studying and learning efficiently
- knowing how to read critically
- performing well in class and on exams
- knowing how to write papers and essay exams
All of these skills, and many others, contribute to academic success. This chapter begins with a reading that discusses several key factors that contribute to college success. The remainder of the chapter presents numerous other strategies for success to help you develop the skills you need for a successful college career.