The University of South Carolina sets high academic expectations and there are many people in place to support you along the way. It is primarily up to YOU, however, to take responsibility for your academic success.

Suggested Steps for Academic Success

Step 1: Attend Class
Academic success starts by attending your classes! View this as your team practice time. An athlete does not skip practice and still expect to learn and improve. Note: The University of South Carolina’s attendance policy allows instructors to deduct from your grade if you miss 10% of classes (10% can be either 4 or 5 missed classes).

Step 2: Be Prepared
Make your study time (ex. assigned readings) a priority! Like athletes have their personal training time that enables them to be prepared for team practice, your study time enables you to be prepared for class.

Step 3: Active Listening
By being an active listener you are learning while attending class. Sitting in the front of the classroom and taking notes can help with the active listening process.

Step 4: Talk to your Professors
At the beginning of the semester, introduce yourself to your professors. Meet with your professors during office hours or before/after class. If you have questions, just ask!

Step 5: Take Advantage of Academic Success Services on Campus
Academic Centers for Excellence, Supplemental Instruction (SI), Student Assistance Program, Math Tutoring Center, Tutoring, Writing Center

Step 6: Know the deadlines to drop, add, and withdraw from classes without penalty
Check the academic calendar at http://registrar.sc.edu/html/Calendar/

Step 7: Visit the Career Center
Successful students understand how their coursework relates to their future. To learn more about majors and possible careers, visit the Career Center and make an appointment with a career counselor. http://www.sc.edu/career/

Reflect:
What am I currently doing that is contributing to my academic success?

What will I do within the next week? Two weeks? Month? that will enhance my potential for academic success?

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