Why Some College Freshmen Fail

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Monday, December 22nd, 2008 Subscribe To Our Feed

Want to hear something that is certain to frighten college-bound students and their parents? After six years of college, just a little more than half of traditional college students have earned a degree.

At some colleges and universities, more than half of each incoming class never achieves sophomore status. As you might guess, students at the most highly selective colleges do far better. But, even some of them make one or more of the five killer mistakes below. The good news is that you can avoid them all.

1. Do not think that the quantity or quality of academic work that got you through high school will get you through college. You do not have to be a rocket scientist to get through college, but you do have to be smart enough to recognize what is required.

2. College students often do not get enough sleep to function well. You do need eight hours of sleep, or more, no kidding.

3. Avoid alcohol consumption on evenings preceeding classes, and if you must drink at other times, do so responsibly. Binge drinking and/or drinking to become intoxicated will hurt you on many levels.

4. Procrastination kills students. And (remembering item #1 above), it is nearly impossible to catch up if you fall very far behind in your reading or written assignments. Make a schedule that allows you to complete assignments on time and stick to it. No exceptions.

5. Avoid the temptation to cut classes. As a wise person once said, “half of the battle is showing up”. Try to make it to every class meetings…you will be rewarded if you do.

There are no guarantees in life, but if you approach college properly, you are nearly sure to walk away with a degree and an education that can lead you to a rewarding career. It’s not that hard.

About the Author: Howard Sherman, is a college instructor who is a contributor to online education websites on topics which include

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