Time Management

You know the deal: There are just 24 hours in each day. What you do with that time makes all the difference. While high school students average 35 hours per week of class time, college students log an average of 15 to 18 hours per week.

Getting your "free" time under control now will help prepare you for managing that extra 20 hours a week come freshman year of college — when you'll need to study and want to socialize more than ever.

If you don't already, start using a daily planner. This could be a datebook you keep in your bag, an online version you maintain at home, or both. It's easy to over-schedule or "double-book" if we aren't careful. Manage your time wisely and you'll get the maximum out of each day.

Good Study Habits

If you've got them, great. If not — well, there's still time to develop them. Good study habits include these basics:

• Always be prepared for class and attend classes regularly. No cutting!
• Complete assignments thoroughly and in a timely manner.
• Review your notes daily rather than cram for tests the night before.
• Set aside quiet time each day for study — even if you don't have homework or a test the next day!

The Ability to Set Attainable Goals

It's important to set goals, as long as they're attainable. Setting goals that are unreasonably high is a set-up — you'll be doomed to frustration and disappointment.

Concentration

Listen to your teacher and stay focused. Be sure that you understand the lesson. If you don't understand something, ask questions! You've heard it before, but "the only dumb question is the one you don't ask" is absolutely true. If you've been paying attention, it definitely won't be a dumb question.