Tips for Success

During Orientation and Beyond

• Come to Grizzly Orientation on time, plan to stay the entire time, and come prepared with an open mind and good attitude.
• Bring a picture ID.
• Bring a sweater if you get cold easily and an umbrella if rain is in the forecast.
• Make sure you pay for your classes BEFORE the deadline.
• Be sure to check your Claw Mail (GGC email) for important information.
• Be sure to check the Academic Calendar for upcoming deadlines and due dates.
• Go to your classes each and every week.

Interact with Faculty and Staff   

• Talk with your mentor about your interests, your concerns and what college courses/programs can enhance your knowledge.
• Contact your professors with questions about course requirements or any concerns about your courses.
• Take advantage of campus resources. Know what these resources are and use them when you need to:
  • Academic Enhancement Center
  • Career Development and Advising Center
  • Counseling and Psychological Services
  • Disability Services
  • Kaufman Library
  • New Student Connections
  • Student Involvement
  • Technology Helpdesk
  • Wellness and Recreation Center

Develop Connections with Your Peers

• Check Grizzly Days opportunities on Get Involved.
• Participate in study groups.
• Check out student organizations.
• Attend student activities. Find out what activities are available on Get Involved.

Participate

• March through the Arch.
• Go to Grizzly Days opportunities.
• Join a student organization.
• Learn who your Student Government Association members are. Consider running for freshman positions in SGA.
• Volunteer.
• Attend special events with invited speakers who can inform your thinking about a future career.

Develop Good Life Habits

• Attend class.
• Regularly check Claw Mail (GGC email).
• Prepare for class (do your homework, preview reading, review notes).
• Respect other people, in the classroom, in person and in email communications.
• Remain open to new ideas.
• Study effectively (set regular study times, use an organized study plan).
• Get a planner (paper or electronic), and write in important dates.
• Avoid behaviors that inhibit your success (skipping class, plagiarism, etc.).

Successful Students Do These Things

• Interact with faculty and staff.
• Develop connections with peers.
• Participate in co-curricular activities and civic engagement opportunities.
• Adopt responsible patterns of behavior.
• Develop basic library research skills.
• Develop basic critical-thinking skills.
• Develop the ability to use appropriate technology to access campus resources.