What are the Characteristics of a Successful Student?

Attend class.

• Your instructors have important information planned for every class period (even the class before a break)!
• You will fall behind if you miss a class.
• Know your instructor's policy on arriving late; if you know you are going to be late, let your instructor know.
• If you have to leave early, let your instructor know.

Read your syllabus.

• This is how your instructor tells you their expectations for the class and important policy information.
• Your syllabus also tells you when assignments are due and test dates.
• Look at your syllabus daily, and make sure you keep up with the reading.

Be considerate of your instructor and your fellow classmates.

• Turn off your cell phone - this means no texting during class, going on the internet, or receiving phone calls.
• Do not talk or whisper during class - your conversation stops when the instructor starts lecturing, even if your conversation is not complete.
• The best spot in a classroom is in the front/middle of the class. It will help to eliminate distractions.

Take ownership in your learning.

• Take notes in every class.
• Ask questions while being respectful of the other students in your class.
• Go visit your instructor during office hours.

It's okay to ask for help.

• Counselors are available to help with personal and social concerns, as well as career exploration.
• Talk with your instructor when you have questions.
• Use the resources available to you!

Get involved outside of the classroom.

• Anoka-Ramsey is home to several clubs and organizations! Find one that meets your interests, or start your own!
• By getting involved you'll learn a lot about time management, a wonderful skill for the workplace!
• You can also add your out-of-class experiences to your resume!

Recommended Success Courses

• On Course - a course all about being successful in college and beyond!
• Study Skills - figure out your learning style, and better study habits.
• Career Development - a course to learn more about yourself, and help you in making career choices.

Anoka-Ramsey Community College expects students to maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 and/or to complete at least 67% of attempted credits. If you fall below this level after one semester, you may be on academic probation, if you have two consecutive semesters of falling below satisfactory academic progress, you may be on academic suspension. Learn more about this policy by clicking here.