Success in college means many things to many people. For some, it means a 4.0 GPA, for others it means landing the perfect job at graduation or being accepted to graduate school, for still others it may mean opportunities such as studying abroad and completing internships, and for still others, success may mean having a good time or finding a husband or wife.
However broadly you and your student define college success, it almost always includes at least some amount of success in the classroom. In spite of the importance of networking, social life, athletics, leadership, broad experiences, friendships, or job opportunities, the college experience centers around the classroom. And success in the classroom is important.
As a college parent, you hope for academic success, but there is little you can do to influence it. Your student’s success will depend on many factors, but they are, and should be, generally out of your control. In your role as sideline coach, you can cheer your student on — and occasionally give some advice — but the task of learning how to learn belongs to your student.
In spite of your sideline role, here are a few ideas you might pass along to your student. A conversation here or there might guide your student in the right direction. You may even want to pass this list along for your student to read. Remember, though that if your student stumbles and falls, there are important learning experiences associated with that, too.
Basics for classroom success
Is Your Student a Full-Time Student?
Ten Things You Can Do to Increase Your High School Student’s Academic Readiness
College Parents Can Help Students Understand the Differences Between High School and College
The Course Syllabus — Roadmap for Success
Does Your College Student Need Textbooks?
One Question You Should Ask Your Student at Midsemester (Hint: Are You Going to Class?)
College Professors Are People, Too!
Eight Benefits of Taking Difficult Courses in College
Habits for Success —Making It Work
Are There Secrets to College Success?
Helping Your College Student Be a Better Student: Twelve Questions to Ask
Helping Your College Student Increase His Chances of Success
Nine Poor Decisions You Hope Your College Student Will Avoid
Helping Your College Student Find Support on Campus
Tutoring Can Help Your College Student Succeed: Twelve Reasons to Start Early
Is Your College Student Investing Enough Time Studying?
Location, Location, Location: Where’s Your College Student Studying?
Beating the Procrastination Monster: How Parents Can Help
Why Your Student Should Talk to Her Professor If She’s Struggling
With some thought and preparation ahead of time, along with dedication and work throughout the semester, your student will be in a perfect position for classroom success.
