Student Success Advocates work closely with University of Utah students to support their success in college. Getting in touch with a Student Success Advocate is as simple as dropping one of us a text and letting us know where and when it’s convenient for you to meet us — we come to you.  Based on the thousands of interactions we’ve put together a list of the top ten tips for having a successful semester. 

Let us know if you’d like to learn more from a Student Success Advocate.

[bs_well size=”sm”]1. Get a planner — plan your work and work your plan. Pick a time during your week to study and block it off for the whole semester— knowing you have some dedicated time to focus can help when you have a lot going on.

Click this link for a video explaining the basics of time management.[/bs_well]

[bs_well size=”sm”]2. Write all of your due dates into your planner over your first weekend — then break papers, exams, and projects down the weeks leading into the due dates.[/bs_well]

[bs_well size=”sm”]3. Get to know your professors. Visit them during their office hours, even if you don’t have a particular question about class or an assignment. Believe it or not, many of them want to get to know you as a person instead of as a number. In addition, when you form a relationship, it’s easier for them to write you a letter of recommendation for graduate school or a scholarship, or introduce you to someone in your preferred professional field.[/bs_well]

[bs_well size=”sm”]4. If you feel like you’re falling behind, ask your TA or professor for assistance or clarification ASAP. Don’t wait until week 14.

View these videos for more information on procrastination and how to avoid it.[/bs_well]

[bs_well size=”sm”]5. Form study groups and start a group message chat about your assignments, tests, quizzes and exams.[/bs_well]

[bs_well size=”sm”]6. Make friends from various races, gendered-expressions, ethnicities, socio-economic statuses, religions, hometowns and majors. Remember that being challenged in these relationships provides you with opportunities to grow.[/bs_well]

[bs_well size=”sm”]7. Get involved with student centered organizations and contribute to them through participation and leadership.

This link will take you to the Student Leadership and Involvement website and an endless array of resources for getting involved on campus.[/bs_well]

[bs_well size=”sm”]8. Take advantage of the Writing Center and e-tutoring. Your fees are already paying for it, so get your money’s worth. And make sure you utilize free and paid (subsidized) tutoring on campus. For more information, go here.[/bs_well]

[bs_well size=”sm”]9. Stay connected with your local community – you will learn that they will become your biggest cheerleaders.[/bs_well]

[bs_well size=”sm”]10. Meet with a Student Success Advocate. Nine out of 10 students agree that SSAs know what campus resources, opportunities and programs may benefit your college career.

Meet our Student Success Advocates and view the resources available to support your college success here.[/bs_well]