Chapter 13: Study Skills and Student Success
Christine Malone, EdD
Most colleges provide campus resources for students. These may include a counseling center, academic advisors, financial aid administrators, public safety centers, health and mental wellness services, crisis services, career services, centers for students of color, and centers for students in the LGBTQ+ community.
Students may locate resources on campus by searching the school website. Students should also reach out to their advisor or their instructor for information about the resources available to them on campus. These resources are not necessarily for students attending classes in person, many resources are available for students taking courses online.
Instructors typically have office hours where they are available to meet with students. These may be drop-in hours or by appointment. Students who are struggling in their course should reach out to their instructor as soon as possible. The instructor will provide information on resources, study guides, or other items that may assist the student.
For courses that include a laboratory component, students may be able to reach out to their instructor to inquire about additional time in the laboratory for practice.
Resources Available to Students
Students have a variety of resources available to them on college campuses. While an instructor may suggest a referral to a student, it is not always possible for instructors to notice when a student needs assistance. Students need to be proactive and speak up for themselves when they have a need.
For students who have English as a second language, most college campuses have resources available to help with studying and language skills. Students who struggle with reading and writing might seek out the help of a tutor. In the event the student has a disability that interferes with their learning, they may reach out to the Disability Services Department on their college campus.
For students who are experiencing a personal crisis that is interfering with their course work, instructors are there to assist and provide information. This may include finding support through the counseling center on campus, or information on how to drop a class. Many colleges have a mechanism for students to receive a grade of “incomplete” in their course, if they’ve come close to finishing the coursework, but will not be able to finish by the end of the quarter or semester. Each school has a policy for receiving a grade of “incomplete” so students should look into the requirements at their school if they believe this is something they need to pursue. This provides the student with the opportunity to finish the coursework after the course ends.
For students who need to stay on campus while attending courses, many colleges have dorms or other forms of student housing. In many cases, the housing is covered by financial aid. Many colleges offer student work opportunities. These jobs are typically part time and payment t