Why Some College Freshmen Fail

Want to hear something that is certain to frighten college-bound students and their parents? After six years of college, just a little more than half of traditional college students have earned a degree.

Some colleges lose half their entering classes within a year. While persistence and graduation rates are far higher at top tier institutions, even the most motivated, best prepared students are the victims of five classic mistakes. The good news is that all five can be avoided.

1. This one is simple…never forget that you are no longer in high school. The most dramatic difference between high school and college is the significant change in the amount and level of work required. If you do not recognize the difference and adapt your work habits accordingly, you will find yourself in a world of trouble.

2. Don’t think you can burn the candle at both ends. Scientific research has proven that traditional college age students need an absolute minimum of eight hours of sleep a night to function well.

3. Avoid alcohol consumption on evenings preceeding classes, and if you must drink at other times, do so responsibly. Binge drinking and/or drinking to become intoxicated will hurt you on many levels.

4. Do not procrastinate. Begin each semester by reviewing the syllabi of your courses and drawing up a schedule which includes the dates on which your major assignments are due. Then, stick to your schedule.

5. Perhaps the very worst mistake a college student can make is cutting classes. I do not have to explain why, right? Attend all of your classes…no exceptions. You will like the results you get.

There are no guarantees in life, but if you approach college properly, you are nearly sure to walk away with a degree and an education that can lead you to a rewarding career. It’s not that hard.

The author, Howard Sherman, is a college instructor who is a contributor to online education websites on topics which include online degree, and online college programs for mid-career adults.