Career College Central

Road Map to High School Completion, Financial Planning & Career Success 8 6 10 tips for surviving and thriving while you're in school We'll never say successfully going back to school is easy, but your persistence can help you achieve your educational goals and acquire the knowledge and skills employers require. After all, isn't that what it's all about — how well you can prepare for a career? 1. SHOW UP — EVEN ONLINE. Develop a mindset that strives to make it to every class (and every virtual check-in for online students). 2. CHECK IN WITH YOUR ACADEMIC ADVISOR. This is sometimes overlooked until the last semester before graduation. Develop a relationship early, and keep it going. 3. DON'T OVER-WORK YOURSELF. Would you walk into a gym and try to bench-press 500 pounds? Not unless you wanted to look silly or wind up injuring yourself. In other words, know your limits. You'll be much more likely to succeed if you do. 4. DEVELOP A SOLUTIONS-FOCUSED ATTITUDE. You know there will always be stressful times while you're in school. There will be tough courses, challenging tests and seemingly impossible assignments. Try to keep yourself in a mindset that looks for solutions and seeks help when challenges arise. 5. CREATE A SCHEDULE — AND STICK TO IT! Before your semester even begins, sit down and plan out your weekly time. Be sure to talk through your personal expectations with family or roommates and others who may be affected by your shift in routine. 6. MAKE TIME FOR FUN. Although there may not be much time to have fun with friends, you should try to pencil some fun time in every week to balance your study time. You'll find yourself reenergized when you return and avoid the risk of burning out halfway through your semester. 7. TAKE GOOD NOTES. Many students learn more effectively when they write down the important parts of lectures. And you will want to review your class notes at the end of each day for a quick refresher. 8. NETWORK WITH PEERS. Your time in school is not just a good time to gain the knowledge and skills for the job you want; it's also a great opportunity to get to know your peers. You should also develop positive relationships with your professors and seek out organizations that help professionals in your field. 9. USE SCHOOL RESOURCES. Many schools have resources students don't even know are available. Make sure you understand all the benefits and resources you can use to enhance your education and training. 10. IMMERSE YOURSELF IN YOUR PROFESSIONAL FIELD. This can include joining organizations that support professionals in your field of interest. It can also mean going to community events, job fairs and other activities that can keep you connected and in tune with your field. If you're ready to start creating your budget for going back to school, don't forget you can use our handy Financial Planning Made Simple (FPMS) tool. And if you aren't sure which field is the best fit for your personality and interests, use this helpful career path survey to get some ideas. Now, let's move to the last stop on your road to success.

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