College Survival Guide

Introduction

You won’t survive college merely by being smart. Lots of average students get through wile smart ones fail. You’ll survive by making the best use of your abilities.

You already know what you need to get through life. College serves to refine what you already know and to add details. Life gets harder, not easier. College toughens you for the challenges ahead.

Balance your spiritual, physical and intellectual being. Thereafter, you’ll have no trouble. I hope some of the thoughts and essays in this survival guide will help you find your way when you are confused, bounce back when you are down, and always find your balance and keep moving toward your goals.

Taking Exams

College examinations require effective written communication I the English language. NEVER begin writing an essay examination as soon as papers are distributed. Put your pen or pencil down on the desk, and spend a few minutes thinking and organizing your thoughts. If the examination lasts one hour spend AT LEAST 10 minutes thinking before you write. Develop and outline, either on scratch paper, or in your head. Then answer the question in a purposeful, well-organized manner, instead of the willy-nilly approach that is certain when one begins writing as soon as exam papers are distributed. Always get to the exam site at least five minutes early. Sit quietly and relax your mind. This practice will help you get into a proper mind set for taking an exam.

Stamina

How well you perform on exams and in classes partly will be determined by your physical well-being. Are you eating well? Are you getting enough rest? Are you drinking and partying too much?

If you have a healthy lifestyle, you’ll have more success in college. (Ignore the person down the hall who never studies, never sleeps and gets all “A”s. You’re not that person.)

As you approach exam time you should get more rest. It’s stupid to stay up all night studying just before exams. That’s merely a sign that you didn’t use your time wisely during the semester. You will perform better on exams if you aren’t yawning and dozing off. Plan your semester’s study schedule so that you can get plenty of rest during the examination week. Don’t skip breakfast, but don’t over eat. Avoid all sugar products for at least 12 hours before exams. Contrary to popular belief, sugar gives you a quick boost, then reduces your energy level.