Please submit your final assignment for the semester, your completed Student Success Plan, here. You should have completed all sections of the plan using what you’ve learned in this course.

Please submit your final assignment for the semester, your completed Student Success Plan, here. You should have completed all sections of the plan using what you’ve learned in this course.

Before you submit, be sure to read it carefully, then use Grammarly to help you make final edits. Remember that, while your ideas are the focus of our assessment, you will also be assessed on grammar and professional expression of your ideas.

1 and 2 Year Programs

by Alan Farber, Ph.D.

SUCCESS
COLLEGE

Dear Student,

Congratulations on making the decision to further your

education! You have a lot to look forward to and a lot of

work to do. But if you’ve made it this far that means you

have the tools to succeed. You just have to put those tools

to use.

This book will help you set your priorities, succeed in your

classes, and prepare for your future. This is an exciting time

for you … so turn the page and let’s get started.

Alan Farber, PhD

For the sake of simplicity, the term “college” refers to com-

munity colleges, technical colleges, institutes, and other

post-secondary institutions.

College Success
1 and 2 Year Programs

Table of Contents

PART I – Succeed Academically …………………….

2

Be Organized

……………………………………………… 2

Succeed in the Classroom ………………………………

4

Study Smart

………………………………………………..

6

Make Wise Academic Decisions ………………………..

9

Know Your Instructors

…………………………………

12

PART II – The College Experience ……………….. 1

3

Campus Services ………………………………………..

13

Student Organizations

…………………………………

16

Health Tips ………………………………………………. 1

7

Crime and Safety

……………………………………….. 1

8

Money and Finances

……………………………………

19

PART III – Transferring to a Four-Year College ..

22

PART IV –

Prepare for the Future

……………….. 2

5

Working While in College ……………………………..

25

Develop Work-Related Skills ………………………….

28

Closing Words …………………………………………….

29

Copyrighted Material

All Rights Reserved

WOODBURN PRESS

2

PART I

Succeed Academically

Academic success involves more than attending class and reading assign-

ments. To be successful in college, you need to be organized, “study smart,”

and know how to get the most out of your classes. You also need to make

wise academic decisions.

Successful students typically have two things in common:
they are organized, and they manage their time effectively.

In college, no one will contact you when you miss a class, and no one will

remind you when your assignments are due. Even if you’re still living at

home and receiving guidance and advice from parents or family members,

you are responsible for managing your own time, classes, and school work.

Use an Academic Planner or Homework App
To help you stay organized, use an academic planner (available at the

campus bookstore) or a cell phone homework app (such as iHomework).

Here are some items you need to record and keep updated.

u Assignment due dates and exam schedules

u Class times, professors’ office hours, and extra help sessions

u Course registration dates and deadlines

u Course withdrawal deadlines

u Application deadlines (student employment, scholarships, loans)

Don’t rely on your memory. Write down (or enter) everything that needs to be

done today, this week, and throughout the semester.

Be Organized

3

Keep records and archive important messages
Keep documentation of all important school-related information in a file

that won’t get lost or destroyed. Maintain an additional file of non-academic

records including receipts for purchases over $10, car insurance, prescrip-

tions, cell phone bills, and so forth. Don’t rely strictly on online statements.

You want a “paper trail” in the event that online records become unavailable.

Similarly, save all messages you receive regarding academic issues, either

in your school’s Learning Management System, or in email subfolders by

category (e.g., Financial Aid, Career Services, Entrepreneur’s Club).

Make efficient use of your time

u Create To Do lists. Determine which tasks are the most pressing
and which can be put off until later.

u Look for ways to streamline and combine tasks. Study while you’re
doing laundry, listen to podcasts and audiobooks while you work

out, or go over your notes while you’re waiting for a friend.

u Use the time you have between classes to study, read, do research,
or complete assignments.

u Look for chunks of time that are wasted and figure out how to use
these times more effectively.

u Learn to say “no.” In college, there is so
much to do and so much going on that

it’s easy to get sidetracked.

Know what you need to do, and don’t

let anything get in the way of your

academic success.

“Trust me—you can’t just wing it in college. You need to create lists and plan

out your days. I’d be lost without my planner and To Do lists.”

Michael, business major

4

During one year of full-time college you will occupy a class-
room, lab, or lecture hall for approximately 500 hours. Here
are some recommendations to help you get the most out
of those hours.

Register as early as possible
Colleges publish a registration schedule, and all students are given a date

(or range of dates) to register. Some classes fill up quickly, so always register

at the earliest possible date.

Attend every class
When you miss or arrive late for class, you miss assignments, discussions,

lectures, and information about upcoming assignments and tests. In some

classes, grades may be partially based on attendance. Don’t expect an in-

structor to cut you any slack on your grade if you regularly miss class.

Sit in the front of the class
On the first day of class, arrive early and sit in one of the first three rows.

The closer to the center, the better. That may become your permanent seat.

When you sit in the front, you’re able to see what is written, hear what is

spoken, and you send a positive message to your instructor. Also, students

in the front seldom talk to one another, text, chat, tweet, doze off, or walk

in late, so there are fewer distractions.

Come prepared
If you’re covering Chapter 4 on Wednesday, read Chapter 4 in advance. You’ll

get more out of the lecture, you will know what’s going on in class, and

you’ll be able to answer questions. Regularly refer to your course syllabus.

Succeed in
the Classroom

5

Participate in classes
Unless the class is 100% lecture with no opportunity to participate, get

involved by asking and answering questions. The material will be more

interesting, time will pass more quickly, and your instructors will get to

know you. Engaged and active learners have a better understanding of the

course material, and they generally perform better on quizzes and exams.

Mute your cell phone
This includes disabling the vibrating function. There is no better way to

alienate an instructor than to disrupt a class with a ringing or vibrating

phone, or with the sight and sound of texting.

In class, use your laptop or tablet for
classroom purposes only
If you use a device to take notes, avoid the tempta-

tion to email, text, chat, tweet, search the web, etc.

Stay focused on taking notes, and participate in

class discussions.

Make presentations early
If a classroom presentation is required, volunteer to make your presentation

as early as possible in the semester. You’ll get it out of the way, and you won’t

stress out watching the presentations that precede yours.

Have contact information for two students in each class
If you miss a class, you’ll want to contact a classmate to get a copy of the

notes and/or handouts, and to learn if any new assignments were made.

If an assignment is due on a day you can’t attend class, check to see if it can

be emailed to the instructor or delivered by a classmate.

“If I could tell new students only one thing, it would be to go to every class.

It seems like every time I miss a class something is covered that I need for an

exam or an assignment.” Lana, communications major

6

It’s time to hit the books. If your study or test-taking skills aren’t up to par,

check to see if your college offers classes, workshops, or individual assistance

with study skills and test taking.

As a general rule, 2 to 3 hours of studying and assignment completion is required

for every hour of enrolled coursework. So if you’re taking 15 hours, prepare to

work 30 to 45 hours per week outside the classroom.

Study in a quiet place
Locate an isolated, well-lit space where all you can do

is study. Avoid friends, social networking, TV, texting,

etc. By eliminating all distractions, you force yourself

to do one thing only—study.

Find a quiet section of the library or an unoccupied classroom. Also consider

off campus locations such as bookstores, public libraries, or quiet cafés.

Complete all assignments early
When you complete your assignments several days prior to the due date, you

have time for editing and improvements. And if you’re uncertain whether

you did a project correctly, you have time to discuss it with your instructor

and make revisions. Some instructors may even be willing to review a first

draft.

Study the “worst first”
Students naturally avoid that which they find unpleasant, so they often

study their least favorite subject last (if at all). This is a mistake. The end of

a study session is when you are the most fatigued, and if you wait until the

last minute, you may be rushed or run out of study time. Study your least

favorite subject when you are the most alert and unrushed—at the begin-

ning of your study session.

Study Smart

7

Study between classes
Time is your most precious commodity. Make use of the time you have be-

tween classes to study, review your notes, talk to an instructor, or do research

in the library. This will free up your time in the evenings, and give you more

time for social activities on the weekends.

Study according to your body clock
Are you a morning person or a night person? You want to study during your

body’s most alert state.

Space your studying
A good rule is 30 to 45 minutes of studying followed by a 5 to 10 minute

break (e.g., stretch, get a snack, take a short walk). During your study ses-

sions, don’t do anything but study. If you can stay focused, you’ll be able

to get a great deal accomplished.

Temporarily disconnect
Turn off the TV and the music. Silence your phone, and don’t check for text

or phone messages until you’re finished studying.

Know your software
Learn the shortcuts and features of MS Word.

You will save yourself hundreds of hours over

the course of your college career. If you need to

improve your skills, review free online tutorials.

Review old tests
Check on the availability of old tests at the library or from students who previ-

ously took the course. Although you can’t assume the items will be identical,

you will gain some insight as to the way in which questions are asked, and

the subject matter of interest to the instructor.

“One of the smartest things I did was to start hanging out with people who

actually cared about their grades. We don’t just play together—we study and

play together.” Christie, sophomore marketing major

8

Back up computer files and save often
Every student’s nightmare is lost or corrupted assignments, papers, and

projects. Computers crash, get stolen, or lost. Save your files on a free cloud

system like Google Drive, Media File, or Drop Box, or purchase an online

backup system like Carbonite or iDrive. External hard drives and USB sticks

are fine, but they too can get lost or corrupted.

At the very least—email all documents to yourself as attachments so they

exist in the cloud.

Socialize with students who care about school
Your circle of friends will influence your success in college. Avoid those whose

priorities are ditching classes and partying. There is certainly a place for fun

and games during college, but the successful completion of your program

must be your top priority.

9

Make Wise
Academic Decisions

A sound academic plan will help ensure that you achieve
your academic and career goals.

You may be enrolled in a “terminal” or “non-transfer” program with the inten-

tion of getting a job right after college, or you may be planning to transfer

to a four-year college at some point in the future. Whatever your situation,

you need to have a sound academic plan.

Review your college catalog
Read through the online catalog and familiar-

ize yourself with your college’s registration

deadlines, add/withdrawal deadlines, academic

regulations, program requirements, probation

guidelines, etc.

Visit Career Services
If you haven’t already done so, make an appointment at Career Services.

A career counselor can help you clarify your career options and goals, and

plan for the future—whether it be getting a job or going on for a bach-

elor’s degree.

Meet with your academic advisor
Meet with your advisor early in the term. He/she may be booked for several

weeks, so schedule your appointments well in advance. During the busier

registration periods, your advisor may offer walk-in times on a first-come,

first-served basis. If this is the case, arrive early.

Prior to your appointment, review the academic requirements listed in your

college’s print or online catalog, and create a list of questions for your

advisor.

10

Questions to ask your advisor

Here are some questions you may want to ask your advisor.

u Do I have to take any remedial or prerequisite courses?

u What is a reasonable course load? (This is especially important if you
have a job.)

u How do I use the online registration program? When do I need to register
for courses? What’s the best way to ensure that I get into my classes?

u If I can’t get into a required class, is there a nearby college that offers an
equivalent, transferable class?

u Do you have an Honors Program? What does the program involve? Am
I eligible? How do I apply?

u Who do I see about services and accommodations if I have a learning
(or physical) disability?

During your appointment, your advisor will likely give you a list of required

courses in the order in which they must be taken—often called a Major,

Pattern, or Program Sheet. A lot of information will be covered during your

appointment. Write everything down. If you’ve attended a previous college,

be sure to have your transcript available.

If you are confused or have additional questions after the appointment,

schedule a return visit or ask to speak to the director of academic advising.

11

Know course withdrawal procedures and ramifications

At some point you may find that you need to withdraw from a course mid-

semester. Reasons to withdraw from a course include:

u You realize you’ve taken too heavy a course load.

u Despite your best efforts, you’re getting a poor or failing grade.

u You have a legitimate medical or personal reason for lightening
your course load.

u You’ve registered for the wrong class, or have learned that you
don’t need the class to fulfill your program’s requirements.

If you think you may need to withdraw from a class, check the college cata-

log for guidelines. Before you begin the withdrawal process, be sure to

speak to your academic advisor and the course instructor.

Questions to ask before withdrawing from a course

Consult your college catalog and meet with your academic advisor to get

answers to the following questions:

u Are there limits to the number of classes I can withdraw from?

u How will a withdrawal be reflected on my transcript? Will it impact
my GPA?

u Is the class one of a required sequence of classes? If so, when can
I retake it?

u If I withdraw, will I get a full or partial tuition reimbursement?

u If I withdraw, will I still maintain satisfactory academic progress?
(Most colleges have mandatory GPA requirements and “completion

rates” for all attempted credits.)

u If I drop below full-time status, will this affect my eligibility for finan-
cial aid (grants, work-study, scholarships)?

Withdrawing from a class is a formal procedure with specific guidelines. If you

simply stop attending a class, you will still be registered, responsible for any

tuition or fees associated with the class, and you may receive a grade of “F.”

12

Developing positive relationships with faculty is one im-
portant way you can improve your educational experience.

College instructors come in many shapes and sizes. They may be young or

old, novices or veterans, entertaining and inspirational, or just plain dull.

Whatever the case, these are the people who will impact the quality of your

education. Developing positive relationships with faculty is one way that

you can directly influence the quality of your education.

Develop relationships with instructors
Sit up front, ask questions, and get to know your instructors. Most instructors

genuinely enjoy sharing their wisdom and knowledge with motivated

students. In addition to providing academic guidance, instructors may

provide valuable career information, and serve as references for jobs and

four-year college applications.

If you’re struggling in a class, talk to your instructor. Meet during office

hours rather than trying to catch your instructor before or after class. If you

are enjoying the class and value the knowledge you are gaining, let your

instructor know.

Investigate the courses you’re considering
If you’re considering a course for next semester or next year, review the

course description and the requirements. To learn more about the course,

go to the college bookstore and leaf through the required textbook.

If you want a feel for the instructor’s temperament and teaching style, visit

the instructor during office hours and ask about the course, the assignments,

and the availability of extra help. Better yet, sit in on a course you’re con-

sidering taking in the future. Before or after class, ask a few students what

they think of the course and the instructor.

Know Your Instructors

13

PART II

The College Experience

Every student has a different college experience. You may be living at home

and commuting, or you may be living in an apartment and attending a col-

lege far from home. Situations vary, but most college students have a great

deal in common. In Part II of this book, you will learn what you can do to

get the most out of your college experience.

Campus Services

Your college most likely offers a variety of services. These services are volun-

tary, so it’s up to you to contact or visit them. Check your college’s website

for a full list of student services. Here are some examples of the kinds of

services often available at two-year colleges.

Career Services
A career counselor can provide assistance with selecting your program of

studies, obtaining an internship, and getting a job.

Child Development Center
Affordable, on-campus day care is sometimes provided for infants, tod-

dlers, and preschoolers.

Computer Lab / Information Technology Help Desk
They offer assistance with online, software, and hardware concerns.

Counseling Center
Helping professionals are available to address any personal concern you

may have. The information you share will be kept in strict confidence.

14

Financial Aid and Bursar
The Financial Aid office may provide financial assistance in the form of

scholarships, grants, loans, and/or on-campus jobs. The Bursar does the

billing and collection of tuition, fees, and other college charges.

Learning Centers
These centers provide academic support programs to promote student

achievement. Their staff assist students with class assignments, textbook

reading, and notetaking. Learning Centers offer tutoring, and often con-

duct workshops on study skills and test preparation.

Library
College libraries have it all—books, journals, reference materials, govern-

ment documents, online databases, and much more. Libraries are good

places to study, and reference librarians are experts at locating hard-to-

find resources and materials.

Recreation Center / Intramural Office
Be healthy, get in shape, have fun, and meet people. Join an intramural

team, register for a yoga class, go swimming, or lift weights. Many colleges

also plan excursions and rent outdoor equipment for camping, hiking,

kayaking, rock climbing, and more.

Registration and Records
The Office of Registration and Records provides and maintains student re-

cords. See them with questions or concerns about graduation, changing

your contact information, requesting a transcript, or transferring credit.

Service Learning
Colleges often offer community service programs. Volunteer opportuni-

ties may include assisting the elderly or homeless, cleaning/protecting the

environment, tutoring, staffing crisis lines, and more. Service should be a

part of every student’s college experience.

Disability Services
They provide assistance, support, and services for students with physical

or learning disabilities.

15

Religious Organizations or Campus Ministry
In addition to providing religious and spiritual support, many religious orga-

nizations provide social activities and opportunities for community service.

Health Services
Doctors, nurses, nutritionists, and other health personnel are available for

your health-related questions and concerns. Visit them to learn about re-

quired inoculations, vaccines, health insurance, and more.

Support Services for Students from Disadvantaged
Backgrounds
Many colleges have programs such as TRIO to motivate and support first-

generation students, low-income students, and students with disabilities.

“When I started here I didn’t know what was available to me besides the library.

Once I made the effort, I found out that there are all kinds of services—and

now I use almost all of them.” Josh, engineering technology major

16

Many colleges provide students with the opportunity to
get involved in student organizations and clubs.

Colleges offer a variety of on-campus activities
One of the most enjoyable and rewarding aspects of college is the opportu-

nity to get involved in student activities and organizations. There’s no better

way to meet new people who share your interests and to have some fun.

College clubs and organizations may be academic, social, athletic, political,

spiritual, international, or cultural. Check your college’s website for a list of

student organizations.

Why participate in student organizations
Involvement in student organizations suggests

that you are the kind of person who takes initiative,

manages time effectively, and has a wide range of

interests. Whether your interest is martial arts, the environment, salsa danc-

ing, or politics, student organizations are a great way to learn more about

a topic, meet other students, and get involved in activities that you enjoy.

Many student organizations offer valuable networking opportunities. An

organization may have guest speakers, arrange visits to local companies, or

work on projects with community organizations. This often gives you the

opportunity to meet people in your community who are doing the same

work that you are preparing to do. The contacts you make through these

experiences can be invaluable when you start applying for jobs.

Student organizations give you the opportunity to develop the same skills

employers seek in new employees. Through student organizations you

can get involved in organizing, scheduling, and publicizing events; create

a business plan; or participate in fundraising activities. Organizations also

require planning and teamwork, and members must work cooperatively

to generate ideas, solve problems, and accomplish goals. Participating in

student organizations is a great way to accrue valuable work-related skills.

Student Organizations

17

Health Tips

To succeed in college, you need to take care of both mind
and body.

Eat sensibly and keep fit
Eat a balanced diet that includes lots of fruits and vegetables. Drink plenty

of water, and avoid caffeine, nicotine, and artificial stimulants. Also develop

an exercise regimen you enjoy.

Get enough sleep
For many students, fatigue (and the inevitable illness that accompanies it) is

directly responsible for failure or poor performance at college. You simply

will not be able to concentrate in class, complete assignments, memorize

facts, and perform at your best if you are severely sleep deprived.

“It took me a whole semester to figure out that if I didn’t start getting enough

sleep, I was going to flunk out.” Jeremy, computer science

Learn to relax
Check with counseling, health, and recreation centers about relaxation

training, yoga, or meditation classes. Take some time each day to breathe

deeply, kick back, and “smell the roses.” If you feel overwhelmed or think

that maybe you have taken on too much, create a list of everything going

on in your life and determine what can be dropped, delayed, or modified.

Don’t use drugs or alcohol to “self-medicate” or improve your mood. Find

healthy solutions to alleviate stress.

Seek help if you’re having problems or feeling stressed out
There is no need to go it alone in college. Talk to friends and family members

about any problems or concerns you have. You can also drop in or schedule

an appointment at the Counseling Center.

Talk to your instructor or academic advisor about academic concerns or

problems. For medical concerns, visit the Health Center.

18

College is a microcosm of the real world. Crime occurs on
college campuses, just as it does everywhere else.

Exercise caution
When you arrive at college, take a daytime walk. Explore the campus and

the nearby neighborhood. Note the locations of emergency phones and the

Campus Security office. If you’re concerned about walking across campus

alone at night, walk among trusted friends, call Campus Security, or contact

your college’s shuttle or escort service (if available).

Thefts occur at all colleges. Lock your car doors, put electronics and other

valuables out of sight, and don’t ride an expensive bicycle on campus. Never

leave textbooks or laptops unattended in a dining area, classroom, library,

or elsewhere on campus.

Rules and regulations
When you attend college, you agree to abide by the institution’s rules and

regulations. All colleges have policies regarding sexual harassment, the

destruction of property, drugs, alcohol, and smoking. Colleges also have

rules regarding academic integrity. These rules cover cheating, plagiarism,

and false citations in papers and essays. Visit your college’s website and

familiarize yourself with their Code of Conduct.

Some students mistakenly believe that they are not subject to city, state, or

federal laws if they commit a crime on campus. Not true. If you break the law

on campus, you can wind up in a city or county jail cell. Students who have

experienced this report it to be one of the most disagreeable, costly, and

regrettable experiences of their lives. A criminal record can also jeopardize

your career prospects.

Colleges have a zero tolerance policy on illegal drug use. Get caught and

you will face sanctions or be expelled from school. Get caught selling drugs

and the campus or community police will be called in.

Crime and Safety

19

Attending any college can be expensive; however, there
are ways to keep college costs to a minimum.

In addition to paying for tuition, college students must pay for textbooks,

lab fees, computer costs, commuting/parking expenses, and so forth. Many

students also run up outrageous credit card bills on non-educational spend-

ing. Your goal should be to avoid incurring unreasonable debt by living

frugally during your college years. Here are some tips.

Make a budget
Establish a weekly budget and stick to it. You’re much more likely to avoid

wasteful spending when you track every purchase. Create an Excel or Google

Sheets spreadsheet, or use a cell phone budget (or “expense tracking”) app

such as Mint, Monefy, or Good Budget. Or just keep a ledger in a notebook.

This will encourage you to carefully evaluate your spending habits.

Be especially cautious of your spending when you go out with your friends.

Leave your credit/debit card at home. Whether you’re going to a club, con-

cert, the movies, or out to dinner, it’s important to stick to your budget and

not get caught up in the moment.

If your daily routine involves buying a $1.00 bottle of water and a $2.00 cup

of coffee, that’s $240 per semester, or almost $500 a year.

Limit credit card use
While it’s okay to have a credit card for emergencies, you should limit its

use. If you do make occasional credit card purchases, always pay off the

monthly balance in full, and on time.

Instead of using a credit card, use a debit card or your college’s cash card.

Get a free checking account that does not incur ATM fees, and withdraw

cash in small increments. Using cash is a good idea because you’ll invariably

spend less when using cash vs. a card.

Money and Finances

20

Many schools partner with local banks and offer an all-purpose card that

serves as a student ID, a library card, ATM/debit card, meal plan card, and a

swipe card for campus events. This is a good deal if there are no minimum

balances, no monthly maintenance fees, and no ATM fees.

“Our college cash card is convenient because you can charge pretty much

anything, but I think students sometimes forget that it’s real money they’re

spending.” David, business major

Look for free and inexpensive entertainment
Before shelling out $15 or more for a movie ticket and a bag of popcorn,

check out free campus events. Many colleges offer free sporting events,

concerts, films, café entertainment, theater productions, and comedy shows.

College and local libraries also have free movie rentals.

Be smart buying textbooks
Get a list of required books as early as possible, and

consider buying used books at the college bookstore,

online, or from fellow students.

Check on the availability of eBooks and textbook rent-

als at your college bookstore, and know the store’s

buy-back dates so you can sell your books back at

the end of the semester.

Tip: If you are receiving financial aid, you may be eligible for a book voucher.

Learn about financial aid
A great deal of financial aid is available; however, the process of obtaining

financial aid can be very confusing. If you need help paying for college, go

to your

college’s Financial Aid office and ask for assistance.

They can help

you. Learn as much as you can about the financial aid process and about the

kinds of aid you may be eligible to receive.

On the following page, you will find some basic information on financial

aid. For additional information, talk to a college financial aid counselor or

visit the following websites:

studentaid.ed.gov finaid.org fastweb.com

21

Financial aid overview
Financial aid is money that is given, earned, or lent to help students pay for

their education. The four categories of financial aid are grants, scholarships,

loans, and work-study. Grants and scholarships are considered “free money.”

Loans and work-study are considered “self-help” programs.

u Grant – money given, usually because of financial need.

u Scholarship – money awarded for exceptional academic
achievement, outstanding talent, and/or financial need.

u Loan – money borrowed, either from a bank, the government,
or a college. Student loans must be repaid, but repayment

doesn’t start until a student has either left school or graduated.

u Work-Study – money earned by working at a part-time job.
“Student Employment” often refers to positions on campus for

those ineligible for Federal Work-Study.

Most college students are dependent students. This means that their par-

ents are expected to assume the primary role in paying for their college

education. To be an independent student, a student must generally meet

one of the following criteria: 1) be 24 or older; 2) an orphan; 3) homeless

or emancipated; 4) married; 5) on active military duty; 6) have dependents

other than a spouse.

Except for scholarships, financial aid is usually awarded on the basis of fi-

nancial need. Financial need is the difference between the cost of attending

a college and the amount a family can afford. For example, if a family can

afford $4,000 and the cost of attending a college is $12,000, the student has

a financial need of $8,000. The greater the difference, the greater the need,

and the more aid the student is eligible to receive.

Because need-based financial aid is awarded to students whose families need

help paying for college, having a fair and objective way to determine how

much a family can afford is very important. The FAFSA (Free Application for

Federal Student Aid) is the form that’s used to determine the amount a

family should be able to pay for one year of college.

For information and to complete a FAFSA online, go to fafsa.gov. Any stu-

dent hoping to receive financial aid needs to complete a FAFSA!

If you need help paying for college, go to your

college’s Financial Aid office and ask for assistance.

22

If you are attending a community, technical, or junior col-
lege and want to transfer to a four-year college, there are
many things you need to know and do to ensure a suc-
cessful transition.

If you plan to transfer to a four-year college, congratulations on your decision

to continue your education. Additional education will allow you to grow and

develop as a person. A bachelor’s degree is also likely to provide you with

increased career opportunities.

Transferring to a four-year college, however, is often not as simple and

straightforward as students might think. Four-year colleges have their own

rules and requirements, and students are often surprised to find that one

or more of their courses will not transfer. This is why it is so important for you

to meet with your academic advisor early, and to develop an academic plan.

When researching the transfer process, carefully examine the academic

requirements of the four-year colleges you’re considering. If at all possible,

arrange a visit to these colleges. Schedule appointments with the Admissions

Department Transfer Counselor and with an Academic Advisor in your major

of interest. This takes time, effort, and planning—but failure to plan ahead may

cost you far more in terms of time, money, and frustration.

PART III

Transferring to a
Four-Year College

23

Consider Maria, who decided to select courses and plan her transfer

strictly on her own.

Maria: A Cautionary Tale

Maria completed an Associate in Arts (AA) degree at City Community

College with the intention of transferring into the teacher education

program at State University. Included in her coursework were two

semesters of World History, an online course, and a course taken

pass/fail.

Upon transferring to State University, Maria learned that the College of

Education requires two semesters of American History. So even though

the two World History courses met the university’s general education

requirements, they did not meet the Education department’s major

requirements. To make matters worse, she also learned that State

University does not accept online courses or pass/fail courses.

These oversights cost Maria an additional semester at State University

and many thousands of dollars!

What is articulation?
Articulation refers to the courses offered at your college that a four-year

college or university will accept. The four-year college has agreed to accept

these courses because it has determined that the content is sufficiently simi-

lar to courses it offers. Articulation agreements primarily focus on general

education requirements.

Never assume that a course will “articulate” simply because the course title

or content is similar to one offered at a four-year school. A course only ar-

ticulates if the four-year college’s Admissions Department officially approves

it. And as we learned from Maria, it is possible for a course that is approved

by the college’s Admissions Department to be unacceptable toward the

fulfillment of a requirement in a specific major.

Tip: When talking to an Admissions Transfer Counselor at a four-year college,

check to make sure that the courses you’re planning to take at your two-year

college will transfer. Also make sure they’ll count toward the courses and credits

you need for your four-year degree. If possible, also talk to an Academic Coun-

selor in your intended academic department.

24

Articulation can be challenging
Articulation from a community college to a four-year state university within

the same state is typically a rather straightforward process. This is because

there are articulation agreements between the schools. These articulation

agreements have different names in different states. They may be called 2

Plus 2 Programs, Comprehensive Articulation Agreements, Transfer Articu-

lation Agreements, etc.

Many states have partnerships between their community and four-year

colleges that guarantee admission and course transfer. In these states,

students are guaranteed admission to at least one, but not necessarily all,

of the state’s four-year colleges.

Articulation is less clear-cut if you’re planning to transfer to a college in a

different state or to a private college. Check to see if your community college

has an articulation agreement with the schools you are considering. Many

will not, so you will need to meet with the Admissions Transfer Counselor

at the four-year college to carefully determine which courses will transfer

and count towards your major. These meetings are best done in person,

but they can be done over the phone or via email.

Learn the requirements of any four-year college

you are interested in BEFORE or immediately

upon beginning classes at a community college.

25

One of the primary reasons you attend college is to have a rewarding career

and comfortable lifestyle in the future. Getting some “real world” work

experience is a great way to benefit today while preparing for your future.

Many students work while enrolled in college. They work to pay the bills,

have extra spending money, help out their families, and gain valuable work

experience.

Working while attending college requires a great deal of self-discipline and

time management. Recruiters, however, are impressed when they see work

experience on the application or resume of a recent college graduate.

If you want to work while in college, you have several options. You can work

on-campus, off-campus, or you can get an internship/co-op position.

Working on-campus
Students may be awarded “work study” as part of their financial aid award.

Check with the Financial Aid office regarding your eligibility. Other student

employment positions may be available on campus as well. One advantage

of on-campus employment is convenience. Hours are flexible and jobs are

available throughout the campus. Typically, students work 10 to 20 hours

per week.

It is ideal to get a job that provides you with practical skills that relate to

your future career. On the following page are some examples of career

related on-campus jobs.

Working While
in College

PART IV

Prepare for the Future

26

Your Career Interest Area College Department

Computer Science / IT Computer Lab, IT Help Desk

Hospitality, Management Food Service, Catering

Early Childhood Education Campus Child Care Center

English, Journalism, Education Writing, Tutoring Center

Accounting, Bookkeeping, Banking Financial Aid, Bursar

Law Enforcement Campus Security, Parking

Landscaping, Property Management Facilities Management

Library and Information Science Library

Nursing, Med Tech, Pre-Med Health or Wellness Center

Sports Management, Phys Ed Athletic Department

Web Design, Graphic Arts Media Services

Retail Management Campus Bookstore

Office Administration Departmental Offices

Working off-campus
Off-campus jobs are often in the service sector – restaurants, child care,

retail stores, hotels, banks, business offices, YMCAs, and park districts. Un-

like students who work on-campus and schedule their jobs around their

classes, students who work off-campus typically arrange their class sched-

ules around their jobs. This can be a real challenge. Getting to and from

the job may be a hassle and the hours may not be as flexible as on-campus

jobs (but the pay may be better). The longer your commute, the greater the

car maintenance and gas costs, and the less time available for your studies.

Seek employment as close to campus as possible. Again, it is ideal to get a

job that relates to your major and eventual career path.

Internships
Another option is an off-campus paid (or unpaid) internship during the sum-

mer or school year. An internship is a part-time or full-time position offered

to college students. This is the ideal way to “test drive” a tentative career

while obtaining real-world work experience. Organizations often use their

internship programs to groom talented students for full-time positions.

Not all internships are created equal, however. Some organizations use

internships as a way to hire “cheap labor” in order to get mundane tasks

completed. Avoid these. Seek organizations that have a well-developed in-

ternship program that provides training, supervision, and challenging work.

27

Paid vs. unpaid internship
Of course you’d rather be paid than not paid, but remember that the primary

benefits of an internship are the responsibilities you are given, the quality

of the work you perform, the skills you obtain, the contacts you make, and

the opportunities it provides for your future career.

Many college programs integrate internships into the course curriculum,

so you may be able to get college credit for an internship. Check with your

academic department to see if they offer an internship course and/or grant

academic credit.

How to get an internship
Career counselors can help you create a resume, instruct you on how to

interview, show you where internships are posted, and offer suggestions

for locating additional summer opportunities. Career Services may also

conduct an Internship Fair and post internships on their online job site. But

no one will get an internship for you—it’s entirely up to you.

28

In a competitive job market, it is important that you gain
and demonstrate out-of-classroom skills to complement
your college education.

Get involved in community service
Nothing says more about the content of your character than active in-

volvement in community service. Some colleges have Community Service

programs, and many student organizations offer their time and energy to

local causes and philanthropies. Select activities that speak to your heart.

Strengthen communication skills
When recruiters are surveyed about the qualities

they seek in graduating college students, the results

are always the same: communication skills tops the

list. We live in an information age, and it is crucial to

demonstrate your ability to convey verbal and writ-

ten information effectively. Your college years are the

ideal time to hone your writing, listening, and public speaking skills.

Develop leadership skills
As you become increasingly involved in an activity, take on a leadership

role. Recruiters will be impressed, and you’ll gain confidence in your ability

to organize events, delegate tasks, and supervise others.

Develop foreign language skills and cultural competence
An increasing number of organizations and industries are becoming inter-

nationalized through expansion into new worldwide marketplaces. We live

in an increasingly diverse society, and you are at a distinct advantage when

you speak another language, and/or can demonstrate your knowledge of,

and sensitivity to, diverse people, cultures, and values.

Develop
Work-Related Skills

29

“What lies behind us, and what lies before us, are

tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Closing Words

Your college years are among the most formative and challeng-

ing years of your life. College offers many opportunities for per-

sonal, intellectual, physical, and spiritual growth. It is a period of

self-discovery and a time for taking charge of your life. You will

assume new responsibilities and overcome new obstacles. And

you will develop lifelong friendships and many fond memories.

Enjoy the journey.

30

SValuable informationand advice for
college students

by Alan Farber, Ph.D.
1 and 2 Year Programs

SUCCESS
College

WOODBURN PRESS
www.woodburnpress.com

Item #187