1 answer
Chloe
Student
North Port, Florida
2
Questions
Asked
315 views
What study habits or apps do you recommend? How should I act in the community?
What is the first step to succeeding in college? What study habits or apps do you recommend?
Since I want to be a teacher, does how I act in the college community impact my future? (nothing illegal, etc., but should I act how I want my kid's future teacher to act? Or does it matter?)
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1 answer
Kelli Duncan
M&A Consultant
2
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Kelli’s Answer
Hi Chloe!
First of all — yay! Huge congratulations on getting into college! That’s such an exciting step and definitely something to be proud of.
You're already thinking ahead, which is a major win. Honestly, you're a step ahead of where I was when I started college. I showed up thinking, “Okay, I guess I’ll try to get good grades?” but had no clue what I wanted to actually do. The fact that you already know you want to be a teacher? That’s amazing.
So, what’s the first step to succeeding in college? Start with purpose. Having a clear sense of why you’re there — not just for grades, but for growth — will give you direction. And don’t be afraid to let that purpose evolve. Some of the best parts of college come from discovering new interests and pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone.
Get involved. Go to campus events, join a club (even one that seems totally random — those can be the most fun), and connect with people outside your major. Being well-rounded will make you a better student, and one day, a better teacher. Study abroad if you can. Volunteer. Explore!
Study habits & apps I recommend:
- Notion: Super customizable for to-do lists, schedules, class notes, etc.
- Microsoft OneNote: Great for note organization, and free with most school accounts
- Google Calendar: Use it to map out deadlines from your syllabi at the start of the semester. It makes crunch times way less stressful
- Forest or Pomodoro apps: These help with focus and time-blocking. Set a timer, work for 25 minutes, then take a break. Feels way more doable
- Quizlet: Flashcards and games to help you study (especially useful for memorization-heavy classes)
- Good old paper planners – If you're a pen-and-paper person, don’t be afraid to go analog. I love the feeling of having a brand new planner!
Combating procrastination:
We all do it — but here are some things that help:
- Break big tasks into small chunks. Instead of “write 5-page paper,” try “create outline,” then “write intro,” etc.
- Use the “two-minute rule.” If a task takes less than 2 minutes, do it right away
- Set a timer for just 10 minutes of work — often, starting is the hardest part
- Change your environment. Sometimes just switching locations (library, coffee shop, or even a different seat) gives your brain a reset
- Study with friends who won’t distract you too much — accountability can be a game changer
How should you act in the college community?
This is such a thoughtful question — and it does matter. You don’t have to be perfect, but thinking, “Would I be proud to tell my future students about this?” is a solid gut-check. Teaching is all about leading by example, and people will remember how you made them feel. Being kind, respectful, and involved now can open doors later — from glowing rec letters to job opportunities. But also… be human. Have fun. Make mistakes. Learn from them. College is a time to grow, not be flawless.
Honestly, the fact that you're already asking these questions tells me you're going to do great. Be yourself, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. You’ve got this!
First of all — yay! Huge congratulations on getting into college! That’s such an exciting step and definitely something to be proud of.
You're already thinking ahead, which is a major win. Honestly, you're a step ahead of where I was when I started college. I showed up thinking, “Okay, I guess I’ll try to get good grades?” but had no clue what I wanted to actually do. The fact that you already know you want to be a teacher? That’s amazing.
So, what’s the first step to succeeding in college? Start with purpose. Having a clear sense of why you’re there — not just for grades, but for growth — will give you direction. And don’t be afraid to let that purpose evolve. Some of the best parts of college come from discovering new interests and pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone.
Get involved. Go to campus events, join a club (even one that seems totally random — those can be the most fun), and connect with people outside your major. Being well-rounded will make you a better student, and one day, a better teacher. Study abroad if you can. Volunteer. Explore!
Study habits & apps I recommend:
- Notion: Super customizable for to-do lists, schedules, class notes, etc.
- Microsoft OneNote: Great for note organization, and free with most school accounts
- Google Calendar: Use it to map out deadlines from your syllabi at the start of the semester. It makes crunch times way less stressful
- Forest or Pomodoro apps: These help with focus and time-blocking. Set a timer, work for 25 minutes, then take a break. Feels way more doable
- Quizlet: Flashcards and games to help you study (especially useful for memorization-heavy classes)
- Good old paper planners – If you're a pen-and-paper person, don’t be afraid to go analog. I love the feeling of having a brand new planner!
Combating procrastination:
We all do it — but here are some things that help:
- Break big tasks into small chunks. Instead of “write 5-page paper,” try “create outline,” then “write intro,” etc.
- Use the “two-minute rule.” If a task takes less than 2 minutes, do it right away
- Set a timer for just 10 minutes of work — often, starting is the hardest part
- Change your environment. Sometimes just switching locations (library, coffee shop, or even a different seat) gives your brain a reset
- Study with friends who won’t distract you too much — accountability can be a game changer
How should you act in the college community?
This is such a thoughtful question — and it does matter. You don’t have to be perfect, but thinking, “Would I be proud to tell my future students about this?” is a solid gut-check. Teaching is all about leading by example, and people will remember how you made them feel. Being kind, respectful, and involved now can open doors later — from glowing rec letters to job opportunities. But also… be human. Have fun. Make mistakes. Learn from them. College is a time to grow, not be flawless.
Honestly, the fact that you're already asking these questions tells me you're going to do great. Be yourself, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. You’ve got this!
Draw an iternery for self,befriend people whose visions,interest and habits aligns with yours,stay positive at all times,always remember there is always award after every challenge or struggle.l know you always win no matter the circumstances.we are here for you.
Pearl Afun