1. Finding Support on Campus

2. Advising 101 Advisors are integral to success.
They help you navigate the course catalog and provide guidance as to which courses are most appropriate for your interests and future goals.
Build a relationship with your advisor.
Share your history.
Practice honest communication.
Create a college network.
Mentors are invaluable resources.
Nourish mentoring relationships regularly.

3. 5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Mentor Relationship
Schedule lunch dates or meetings every two to three months.
Talk about your future goals, not just what’s happening in your life right now.
Ask about your mentor’s life to learn from his or her experiences.
Share not only your achievements, but also any difficulties you are experiencing.
Thank your mentor when his or her advice and support have proved helpful.

4. Important Offices to Visit
Additional academic advising resources
Academic Advising Office
First-Year Programs Office
Specific academic departments

5. Important Offices to Visit (continued)
Other supportive resources
Academic Support and Tutoring Office
Writing and math centers
Counseling centers
Financial Aid Office
Career Services Office
Student Services Center
The library
Disability Services Office
Diversity centers

7. Instructors Have Offices Too
Make the most of office hours.
Introduce yourself to the instructor.
Discuss interesting aspects of the class.
Share your progress on a paper.
Talk about your grade on the last quiz.
Ask for studying and test-taking advice.
Share your academic struggles.
If you find yourself struggling with course material, meet with your instructors after class or during office hours.

8. Quick Tip
Be Prepared
Before you visit an instructor during office hours, spend five to ten minutes preparing for the meeting. Write down the questions you’d like to ask, and flag any material you don’t understand or want to discuss. If you need advice on a paper, brainstorm your ideas for a paper topic before you meet with your instructor. If you want some help with a problem set, make an honest effort to work on the problem set beforehand so that your instructor knows you tried your best.

9. Find Campus Resources Online

10. Quick Tip Identify the Problem
Take time to figure out why you are having difficulty in a class. Are you studying a subject completely new to you? Did you struggle with similar material in high school? Do you have test-taking anxiety? Do you lack the needed study skills? Are you having difficulty writing papers in the style expected? By stepping back and assessing the root of your academic challenges, you can understand why you’re having trouble. Be sure to share this information with your instructor so that he or she can offer more targeted assistance.

11. Ask Questions and Get Help Often
Anxiety is understandable.
Seeking assistance is key.
College supports
Speak with advisors, mentors, instructors, academic center staff, tutors, or counselors when you have an issue.
Peer supports
Don’t underestimate the level of support you may receive from fellow classmates and upperclassmen.
Family and friends
Reaching out to family members and friends can also provide a level of support that is integral to feeling secure on campus.