Many students attend college to become successful later. In 10 Habits of Highly Successful Learners Sept. 3, the South Campus academic success center’s coordinator offered tips for achieving that success.

Organization and time management are the first two things successful learners know they have to dominate, Chris Carcerano said.

“Being organized saves you time,” he said.

Making lists at bedtime for the next day is one way to stay organized and focused on what needs to be done, Carcerano said. On that list should be a time set aside for studying every day, making sure it is at a time of complete alertness. With everything going on throughout the day, Carcerano said students should not forget to make time for relaxation and physical activity.

“Failing to take care of your physical and mental health affects your ability to study and leads to ineffective learning time and test anxiety,” he said.

Textbook knowledge and studying smart are needed for successful learning, Carcerano said. He recommended the SQR3 method as the best way to read textbooks. The acronym stands for survey, question, read, recite and review.

He suggested students study the subjects of least interest first and during the best studying time. Using flashcards, mnemonics, acronyms and memory triggers can help in the study process. Keeping a positive attitude, taking advantage of class time and taking good notes can also lead to success. 

Carcerano said all humans make mistakes, and students need to realize that failure happens.

“The best part about failing is seeing how well you can pick yourself up and start over again,” he said.

Being in class every day and making sure to come to class prepared with all of the materials needed is another key to success. Just attending is not enough, he said. Participating and asking relevant questions are a must.

He said students should actively listen to connect the lesson with other insights that will help to take better notes. When taking notes, students should write legibly so when they look back over, everything is easy to read and understand. Going over notes after class can help solidify information, Carcerano said.

Successful learners also use test-taking strategies and practice reducing test anxiety. Carcerano said to prepare for a test the night before. Students generally do better waking up earlier, rather than going to bed late. During the exam, students should use all the time given for the test. Rushing through a test can lead to skipping over material. Taking mini-quizzes and practice tests at home will help students prepare for the test, reducing anxiety on the big day.

“As long as you believe you are confident, you are confident,” he said.

Carcerano said successful learners get help when they need it. He advised students to take advantage of sources available on campus. Counselors and academic advisors give them the help they need and lead students in the right direction.

Carcerano closed by quoting Aristotle: “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence is not an act, but a habit.”