Crash Course on How to Become a High Achieving Student

Contributed by Douglas Lee, Case Western Reserve (Class of 2016)

Most successful students share a couple common habits and tendencies. Top students know there are no short cuts to success and that you can always improve and take advantages of the opportunities that are presented. For those of us that aren’t geniuses, here are a couple tips that may help.

• Self-motivation

Top students are internally driven to succeed. What drives each one is different, be it a prestigious medical school acceptance, a dream job, or personal validation, find one that motivates you from inside and see how you can use it to channel your focus. Setting a goal to achieve and having a plan to follow to reach it may help you stay on track.

• Competitiveness

Like athletes, top students like winning and coming out on top. There is some thrill and satisfaction when you, for example, come out with the highest grade on a test. Aiming to come out on top may provide some extra motivation for you to succeed.

• Appreciation for Learning

This is probably the most trite and tired piece of advice you will receive in relation to college, but taking a deep interest in your studies will get you far. The more involved you are in what you are studying, the better you will do because when you enjoy learning, it won’t seem as difficult. Also, taking a course you dislike in college is particularly discouraging because of all the freedom you’re given in these four years.

• Attentiveness

Stay attentive and know what is happening in class and on campus. Stay on the lookout for extra credit opportunities, campus events, and any other important dates in class. Make your own luck by being at the right places with the willingness to work.