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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Utica chapter.

Switching from high school to college is a huge life change. Personally, high school for me was a breeze. I, like many others would do the bare minimum amount of work in college and receive straight A’s. Then I came to college. I expected my first semester to be similar to high school. Again, I did the bare minimum but this time did not receive straight A’s. After that first semester, I completely changed my ways and now am on my way to success.

Step 1: Buy a planner

Never in a million years did I think that I was going to be the girl that carried around a planner but let me tell you it has saved my life quite a few times. I bought a small planner from Target that I write my assignments in. I also write down all the important dates in my life such as meetings, practice times, and test dates. Using a planner is an essential step in order to stay organized in college.

Step 2: Join a club or sports team 

I am a part of the field hockey team at my school and I can honestly say it was the best decision I ever made in my life. Being on a sports team allowed me to make incredible friendships. I have a group of girls that I will always be there for and I know they will always be there for me. As an underclassman, I depended on the upperclassmen so much. The girls helped me create my class schedule, showed me where my new classes were, and would even tutor me. Without the help of my team I would have been lost on campus.

Step 3: Utilize your resources

Your college has so many resources that go unused by student all the time. Places like the library, computer labs, and even empty class rooms are fantastic places to study in. My library is even equipped with study rooms that allow groups of students to have their own place to study in. Most colleges also offer tutoring services where you can get a tutor or apply to get a job as a tutor. If you get bored and are unfocused when studying in your room take a trip to your school’s library. You won’t regret it. 

 

By following these three steps and having the right work ethic you will able to be successful in college. Have a happy semester!

Occupational Therapy Major
Meet Bianca, I am currently a Junior at Utica College in Utica, NY.  I am a Criminal Justice major with a concentration in Homeland Security.  Crime investigation has always been something that interests me.  I’m dedicated and passionate and it’s hard for me to quit things. I get that from my father so don’t hold it against me- he was a veteran and police officer for 20 years.   Growing up in a family centered around law enforcement has helped guide me in this direction, and I will forever be grateful.  After graduation I intend to continue on to law school where I can further my education in hopes of becoming a criminal defense lawyer and later on a District Attorney.  An interesting fact about myself is that I found the passion to be a criminal defense lawyer from watching the O.J. Simpson case.  The facts and conspiracy theories evoked a whole new passion behind criminal investigation that I intend to use in my future.  One of my most prominent moments in my writing career was when I wrote for an online magazine and had my most prevalent article hit 1.6k shares.  I believe in treating people with the same kind of respect and manners you would expect in return, and in a way it has helped shaped my expectations in life.   When you first meet me I won’t be the loudest in the room or the center of attention, but I will be intently listening to everything you say, for what you have to say may have a purpose. I believe in purpose. I believe that everyone is here to help you grow into who you are today and who you will be tomorrow.