Go to class! Be on time! Being late can be embarrassing! Even when the professor puts notes online, there will always be points that aren't on the notes. Plan your schedule--gather your syllabi and record on a calendar or planner. exams papers/projects quizzes Get all your books and school supplies before classes begin Get to know your professors and teaching assistants (TAs) collect their contact information how they prefer to be contacted go to their office hours Begin your reading assignments right away--it's harder to catch up than you think! Find out where your classes are. Walk around the day before classes start and find all the rooms How long does it take to get to your classes? walking bike bus ask mentors or upperclassmen What time do you need to get up to be on time for your first class? Do you eat breakfast? How much time does that take? Talk to your roommate/suitemates to determine a shower schedule-- i.e., when does everyone need to get up and use the bathroom in order to get to class? Also determine a cleaning schedule. Develop a routine. Decide how much sleep and study time you need. Be consistent with your sleep routine. Stay focused in class. Stay awake! Find a place to sit where you won't be distracted. Manage your time. What will you do with your "free" time? Get to know the people in your classes. Get involved pick one or two organizations that interest you be careful not to get over-involved don't be afraid to say no if you don't have the time find a job