The transition from high school to college can be difficult, but even going to semester 1 to semester 2 can be pretty hard too for some students since professors change and their testing methods are crazy different at times. College is the time to learn how to balance out your life and have fun while making new connections with people. Throughout my two years at UW-Madison, I have discovered some strategies and techniques that have helped me succeed and thrive in college (I know.. 2 years makes me an expert at this point). With these tips, you will be able to thrive in college, get good grades, and be able to set out time for yourself in order to have fun. Let's have that smart girl fall (but like, year-round)

1. No Phone Zone

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Phone's in class do nothing for an individual, but hurt them. They distract you from material you really need to know for the exams and your career. PAY ATTENTION SIS.

2. Review Your Notes After Class

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Reviewing what was said in lecture is a big help. Going over your notes or just repeating some ideas that were said while walking to your next class will help you retain the information.

3. Make Flashcards After Each Lecture

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We all hate having to make hundreds of flashcards a couple days before the exam, which is NOT a good idea considering that it is super time-consuming and in reality doing that makes you cram for an exam. SOOOO by making flashcards after every lecture that day you do not overload yourself and you can study material more frequently.

4. Study Every Night (DO NOT CRAM)

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DO NOT CRAM!! You forget EVERYTHING you studied a couple of days after the exam. In college you are taking classes that actually matter and go towards your degree/career, so really take the time to study and know the material!

5. Organize Your Material and Seating

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Pro tip: you are less likely to get distracted the closer you sit next to the professor-- so try to get in the first 4 rows of class. Also color coordinating is amazing and helps you actually want to study since your notes are more clear.

6. Get Ahead

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Getting ahead of work literally is a life saver. Dedicating a couple of days to get ahead of what is due in the first week of school and then starting next week's material will help you thrive in school because you end up having more free time. This free time will help you feel less stress, complete activities you want to do, time to work out, and study in advance. Plus, that way you can understand what is going on in lecture before it is even discussed.

7. Study Dates

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Studying can get super boring, so having friends that make sure you stay on track will help you thrive in college. This way you can collaborate with your friends on what you're confused on, explain topics, and just process the material more since you are teaching it to others.

8. Do A lot Of Prep Work

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Doing prep work (like doing the readings ahead of time and reviewing lecture slides) will help you navigate and follow lecture more easily compared to not doing it. It will never hurt you!

9. Hand-Written Notes vs Online

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I love doing online notes on a google-doc form, especially if the teacher talks super fast. However, I only do this if I know I won't get distracted in class. I learn best when I write out my notes and it makes sure I pay attention. Do what is best for you.

10. Use Your Resources

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GO TO OFFICE HOURS. Get a tutor if you need to. USE YOUR TIME. There are so many resources out there that will help you succeed in college and get good grades.