Achieving Academic Success at DSU

Printer-friendly versionPDF version

The following are helpful hints to help you achieve success at Delaware State University inside and outside of the classroom.

“You're here because you're smart”

Successful Students . . .

  • have clear educational goals. (Try writing your goals down on paper.)
  • are active learners who learn for the sake of learning.
  • have good study skills.
  • are interested in their coursework.
  • have the will to succeed.

Effective Students . . .

  • have a regular study schedule.
  • usually work at the same time each day.
  • work mostly in a regular study place.
  • review notes soon after a lecture.
  • do not get easily distracted.
  • do not need exams for motivation.

(adapted from Walter Pauk, How to Study in College, 4th edition, p. 5 and 14)

To achieve successfully and to be effective you need to:

  • Keep academics as your priority!
  • Attend each class regularly. Be sure to participate in class!
  • Find supportive peers with similar academic goals.
  • Meet with your Adviser and instructors regularly.
  • Get to know and utilize University resources. Don't be afraid to ask questions of your Professor and Residence Life staff members - they are here to help you!
  • Do your assignments on a daily basis.
  • Buy and read necessary text for class.
  • Always read before your classes, and write down questions to ask your professor/Instructor.
  • Schedule study time everyday. Don't let assignments and studying pile up.
  • Get involved in an activity on campus. DSU has numerous organizations for student involvement - see what different
      organizations have to offer and get involved. Some students suggest getting involved in at least one organization or
      activity.  Other students suggest the rule of three: get involved in DSU's version of an organization you were involved
      with in high school (i.e. glee club, student government), get involved in a second organization related to your major, and
      get involved in a third organization that is completely new to you.
  • Get to know your instructors. They are a valuable resource.
  • The moment you feel overwhelmed in any area of life, seek assistance.
  • Become a good time manager!
  • Strive for excellence.
  • Find a study environment that meets your learning needs. (Library, your room, the lounge, outside under a tree etc.)
  • Set goals for yourself; find someone that can hold you accountable to your goals.
  • Ask a staff or faculty member to be a your Mentor !
  • If you don't understand something, seek clarification.
  • Always, always ask Questions!!

Below are a few important resources from which you can seek assistance.

The following are websites that can help you with your study skills:

Academic Tips dot Org
Sweet Briar College Academic Resource Center
Purplemath
Time Management

The following are GPA calculators:

University of Minnesota Duluth GPA Calculator
My-GPA-Calculator dot Com