The first year at Columbia is a transitional one. As a high school student, you worked hard and earned your spot here. You will find that academic success at Columbia is less formulaic. At Columbia, you’ll have a more independent role in ensuring your academic success, but you are by no means alone. To start, we’ve provided some helpful tips and resources that can help you think about how to approach your college academics.
Show up to class prepared. Do the reading assignments, the problem sets, and whatever other tasks have been assigned. If an assignment feels overwhelming or unclear, or if you are nervous about participating in a discussion-based class, then start by jotting down a few observations or questions as fodder for a productive class.
A great GPA helped you get into Columbia; now we invite you to lessen your focus on grades and to instead prioritize absorbing the material you are learning while expanding and improving your skills as a critical/quantitative/creative thinker. Embrace the idea of learning from mistakes or struggling through the process, which will cultivate resilience and intellectual growth– invaluable skills for life.
This may help you feel more comfortable seeking advice from your CSA adviser when it is most needed. Your adviser is here to help you with any personal or academic hardships.
There are different academic deadlines for each school, such as add/drop, withdrawal, and certain academic petitions. You’ll find deadlines for all schools listed on the Registrar’s website.
Make a habit of going to office hours throughout the semester, even when you are doing well in the class. Going to office hours gives you the opportunity to get to know your professors on a personal level. It also allows you to review ideas for assignments and discuss your academic aspirations. By getting to know your instructors, you’ll gain more connection to the class and course content while demonstrating your commitment to the learning process.
Use a planner or calendar to track when your assignments are due and when exams are scheduled. This will help you avoid emailing your professor just before your assignment is due. Instructors are less likely to give an extension on short notice.
Times and locations (both physical and virtual) are posted online.
When you have a moment, spend some time getting to know the many sources of undergraduate support on campus by exploring the Live Well | Learn Well resources.
Use the Ask a Librarian service at Columbia Libraries to get research support in finding credible online sources and learn how to use Zotero citation management software. Go to the Writing Center for support in all areas of the writing process, from brainstorming ideas to revising your papers.