First generation Hispanic college students often have a hard time their freshman year. Many have yet to develop good study habits and are unprepared for the college workload. Here are five tips that will help you get a great start:
1. Get support – If you’re struggling academically, don’t be afraid to ask for help. There’s no reason to be shy about approaching your professors directly. Office hours are there for a reason. Prepare some specific questions before you go in. It’s better than turning up and saying, "I don’t get it".
2. Brush up on your basic skills – Not everyone is a math whizz. Many people struggle with essays. If you know your weaknesses, you can work on them. Most colleges have resources to help students with reading, writing, note-taking, math and computer skills. The Residence Life office help.
3. Learn to manage your time – Time management is one of the most important skills you’ll need for academic success. For most students, college is the first time they’re away from home. You can go out every night, sleep as late as you want. It’s hard to find time to study. The best thing to do is to get a planner and write out hour-by-hour what you need to do. Write down all of your classes and extra-curricular activities. Then write down when you’re going to study. Think of study-time like any other appointment. Don’t ignore it just because there’s no one standing over your shoulder.
4. Get to know the people in your department – Your professors can not only help you with your studies, they can guide you to the right careers path. Talk to graduate students in your field. Ask them for advice about which courses to take, where to get an internship. They are an invaluable source of information.
5. Don’t try to do everything at once – Some students take on way too much work their freshman year. It’s a time of big adjustments. Give yourself a bit of slack so you don’t burn out in the first six months.