PittOnline
Tips for Success
Plan for Success
1. Know what you want from this program.
2. Write down your own goals and objectives.
3. Pace your learning:
a. Plan study sessions
b. Take time to assess your learning
c. Determine how you will complete your academic program
4. Personalize your learning by using pre-existing knowledge and outside experiences to enrich your understanding of course material.
5. Develop strategies to improve your ways of thinking and ask questions to clarify what you do not understand.
6. Seek knowledge from other available sources, such as outside research or members of the academic community.
Know Your Courses
1. Look at the design of the course.
2. Read the syllabus before you register. This will be available online soon.
3. Make sure you know what tools you will need to complete the course.
4. Have a clear understanding of class expectations:
a. Grading Policies
b. Participation
c. Workload
5. Think about the interim goals and deadlines you will need to establish to complete the course.
6. Understand your role as a self-directed learner and be prepared to seek out additional learning resources to clarify the material.
Know What Support Is Available
1. Build a relationship between yourself and your instructor, as they will be your guide throughout this learning experience.
2. Know the name of your advisor and how to reach them so that you may contact them for support.
3. Respect the relationships you will foster by tolerating opposing views and ideas.
4. Establish working relationships with fellow students to aid you in your studies.
Be An Active Student
1. Bring to your program a sense of purpose.
2. Participate.
3. Remember: Grades are not given, but earned.
4. Speak up for yourself when you need support.
5. Complete all assignments, meet all deadlines, and maintain your academic integrity throughout the program.
6. Utilize optional learning activities, informal discussions with faculty and students, and suggested reading materials.
7. Expect challenges and prepare for them beforehand.