Secrets of College Success

The Washington Post recently explored the secrets of college graduation success. For once, there's good news -- a recent study by the US Department of Labor shows that more students are obtaining their college degree (66% of the students tracked completed their degree -- up from 60% in the previous study.) The study also reported that students taking more intensive classes are more likely to graduate. (Was that really a surprise?) There are lots of good tidbits for those of you interested in learning more about college persistence, achievement and outcomes. I like the recommendations at the end of the Post article. (I've paraphrased.) 1. Just because you say you will continue your education after high school and earn a college credential doesn't make it happen. Wishing doesn't do it; preparation does. 2. Take the challenging course work in high school, and don't let anyone scare you away from it. If you cannot find the challenge in the school's offerings, find it online. 3. Read like crazy! Expand your language space! Don't waste precious credit hours on remedial courses in higher education. 4. The world has gone quantitative. A full range of disciplines and job tasks tells you why math requirements are not just some abstract school exercise. 5. Log on to college and community college Web sites pay attention to what to what they show you -- the assignments and examination questions given in major gateway courses you will probably take. If you do not see these indications of what to expect, push! 6. See if your nearest community college has a dual-enrollment agreement with your school system, allowing you to take significant general education or introductory occupational courses for credit while you are still in high school. 7. You are ultimately responsible for success in education. You are the principal actor. The power is yours. Seize the day -- or lose it!"