Successful Students: The Difference That Makes the Difference

Beliefs (opinions/confidence/trust in)

First 4 options

• College experiences and a degree help me achieve bigger career and life goals.

• It is up to me to take responsibility for my own learning.

• Resources are available to me on c ampus; I need to find out what they are and use them.

• Earning the grades I want this semester will require more than the minimum amount of work.

Beliefs (opinions/confidence/trust in)

Last 4 options

• During my journey through college, how I react to challenges along the way will have a big impact on my progress.

• When I am in a new environment and stretching myself, I do not expect instant results; I know that good things come to me with time and patience.

• Success is a process, not a destination.

• I am fully supported!

Attitudes and emotions (feelings about)

First 3 options

• I want more than just a grade - I get a bigger sense of accomplishment when I understand and can apply what I learn in college.

• I know that if I treat my instructors and peers respectfully, they are more likely to want to help me succeed.

• I help myself feel in control of my time and on top of my work by creating a study schedule - and sticking to it.

Attitudes and emotions (feelings about)

Last 3 options

• I quickly recognize when I start to feel lost or unhappy about my academic progress; I speak to my instructor or advisors about why and what I can do to feel more in control.

• I like to show initiative.

• I do whatever I can to feel part of the college community.

Thoughts (consideration/reflection)

• I think about how to connect new course material to what I already know and/or have learned in other courses.

• I give considerable thought to what courses I need to take in the future to help me achieve my academic and career goals.

• When my performance leads to negative outcomes, I consider what I did to contribute to that outcome and how I might do things differently next time.

• I know that feedback from my instructors is an opportunity for learning and improving.

• I understand that making mistakes is a part of the learning process.

Behaviors (actions/reactions)

First 3 options

• I keep a calendar of all my commitments (academic and otherwise) to help me stay organized.

• I make it a priority to attend all my classes.

• I do what is necessary so I can pay attention and focus in class (including getting enough sleep and eating well).

Behaviors (actions/reactions)

Last 3 options

• I speak up in class and show myself to be an active, engaged member of that community.

• I ask for advice and guidance from academic advisors, career counselors, tutors/mentors, financial aid staff, etc., to help me make good choices and decisions.

• I complete all my assignments, taking care to present neat, accurate work.