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Strategies and Resources for Student Success

Our Success Coaching team has put together a collection of our top-recommended tools and strategies to help you thrive in college. Take some time to explore these resources at your own pace and save the ones that best support your goals.

If you’d like to go deeper or talk through your academic journey, schedule a Success Coaching session with CASA today — we’re here to help you every step of the way!

Learning & Studying: Choose a method that works for you

Pomodoro Technique

The Pomodoro Technique is a time-management method designed to improve focus and productivity by working in short, structured intervals with regular breaks. It was developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s and named after the tomato-shaped kitchen timer (“pomodoro” means tomato in Italian) that he used.

How it works:

Step

Description

Pick a Task

Choose one task to focus on — big or small — and commit your full attention.

Set a 25-Minute Timer

Promise yourself you’ll work for 25 minutes straight with no distractions.

Work Until the Timer Rings

Stay focused! If something else comes to mind, jot it down and refocus.

Mark Your Progress

When the timer rings, celebrate your focus — that’s one Pomodoro completed!

Take a Short Break (5 Minutes)

Stretch, grab a snack, or step away from your desk to recharge.

After 4 Pomodoros, Take a Longer Break (20–30 Minutes)

Give your brain time to rest before you dive back in.


Bear Tip: Small bursts of focus create big results — one Pomodoro at a time!

Distributive Learning Technique

Study smarter — not harder!

Distributed learning (also called spaced learning or spaced practice) means spreading your study sessions out over time instead of cramming everything in at once.

By reviewing material multiple times with breaks in between, your brain has time to process and store information more effectively.

  • Strengthens long-term memory
  • Prevents mental overload and fatigue
  • Improves focus and recall
  • Encourages deeper understanding
  • Helps you retain information for exams and real-world use

How it works:

Step

Description

Plan Ahead

Break your study material into smaller chunks.

Study in Short Sessions

20–30 minutes per topic is plenty!

Review Regularly

Revisit what you’ve learned over several days or weeks.

Mix It Up

Use flashcards, quizzes, summaries, or teach others.

Track Your Progress

Note which topics need more review and improvement.


Bear Tip: Spacing your study sessions helps your brain learn smarter, not harder!

Example:

Let’s say you are in Biology. You crammed for your first two tests, and earned a B and a C on them. Now it is time for the mid-term exam, and when you go back and look at those first two tests, there are a lot of terms that you don’t remember at all. You realize that you won’t be able to cram for the mid-term.

 

 

So what could you do to prepare?

The 2:1 Study Method

Have you ever wondered how much time you should spend studying for the week?

The 2:1 Study Method is one way to help you figure out your study time.

Look at the total number of credit hours you are taking for the semester. Multiply the total number of credit hours by 2. That is the amount of hours you should spend studying for the week.

Example:

John is taking the following:

  • BIOL101 INTRO BIOLOGY I- 4 credits
  • COMM203 MEDIA LTRCY IN A DIV WRLD- 3 credits
  • ECON211 PRIN OF ECONOMICS I- 3 credits
  • ENGL102 COMPOSITION II- 3 credits
  • HLTH200 DISCOVERING PUBLIC HEALTH- 3 credits

John is taking a total of 16 credits for the semester.

Multiply 16 credits by 2 to get 36. This means John should spend 36 hours a week studying.

5 Day Study Plan:

Did you wait a week before the exam to start studying? If so, take a look at this video for tips on how to gain the most out of studying within a 5 day period.

What Are Learning Styles?

Learning styles describe how you best take in, process, and remember information.
Knowing your learning style helps you study smarter, improve focus, and retain information more effectively.
Most people are a mix of all three styles but tend to have one that’s strongest.

College Student Learning Styles: Study Tips for Success

Learning Style

Description

Study Tips & Strategies

Auditory Learners

Learn best by hearing information, discussions, and verbal explanations.

• Read notes out loud.
• Join or record study groups.
• Use rhymes or songs to memorize facts.
• Explain concepts to someone else.
• Attend lectures and participate actively.

Visual Learners

Learn best by seeing and visualizing information.

• Use diagrams, charts, and color-coded notes.
• Highlight key points in different colors.
• Watch videos or draw mind maps.
• Sit near the front in class.
• Organize notes with headings and visuals.

Kinesthetic Learners

Learn best through hands-on experiences and movement.

• Take short study breaks to move around.
• Use flashcards or physical models.
• Write and rewrite key information.
• Study while walking or pacing.
• Participate in labs or practical activities.

Bear Tip: Discover your learning style — and study smarter, not harder! Visit CASA for personalized coaching and support.

Click here for additional study strategies

Click her to take the quick and free learning styles quiz to determine how you learn Free Learning Style Quiz: How Do You Learn?

Note-Taking Strategies

Knowing how to concentrate is more important than you may think:

Taking notes keeps your mind active and engaged during class. Instead of passively listening, you’re processing, organizing, and summarizing what’s being said — which helps you stay alert, memorize, understand material more deeply. Writing things down helps you listen with purpose.

Tip 3: Use abbreviations and symbols that you will recognize and remember

Abbreviations are a great way to take notes faster. Many of us do this when we send text messages. We use the letter R instead of typing our A-R-E. Or we don’t type the vowels in a word. You can use these same abbreviations when you take notes. Just be sure to write in your notes somewhere what your abbreviations stand for. This is especially important when you make up abbreviations during class.

 

Look at these notes. What are the abbreviations you see? What do they mean? Let’s start at the top of the page.

  • Aka means also known as and indicates a name change. So these notes mean the countries that we call Syria, Iran, Iraq, and Turkey are what used to be called Mesopotamia. And that Mesopotamia used to be known as Babylonia, Sumer, and Akkadia
  • You see the    two times in these notes. The triangle means change or transform.
  • b/c means because
  • rvrs means rivers
  • imp means important
  • rlgn means religion
  • the + sign means and or plus.
Tip 5: Find which note-taking method is right for you

Cornell Method

Outline Method

Mapping Method

Charting Method

Sentence Method

Take a look at these quick videos for tips on note-taking strategies.

How to Take Notes in Class: The 5 Best Methods - College Info Geek

Effective Note Taking Tips (BEFORE, DURING, AFTER LECTURES)

Reading Strategies

Why reading in college is different?
 
College reading requires more critical thinking, focus, and analysis than high school reading. You’re
expected to understand the author’s ideas, evaluate arguments, and connect readings to course
discussions or assignments.
- You’re not just reading for information — you’re reading for understanding and insight.
Reading in College

 

Topic

Key Points

Active Reading Strategies

• Preview material before reading (headings, summaries, bold terms).
• Annotate and highlight main ideas.
• Ask questions as you read.
• Summarize key points after each section.
• Take short breaks to maintain focus.

Manage Your Reading Load

• Prioritize readings based on deadlines and importance.
• Schedule consistent reading time each day.
• Use a study method (Pomodoro, Distributed Practice, or 2:1 Method) and remember to take breaks
• Join a study group to discuss key ideas.

Read for Deeper Understanding

• Connect readings to lectures and assignments.
• Look up unfamiliar terms.
• Compare different sources and perspectives.

Campus Resources for Help

• Tutoring Centers – help with comprehension and study skills.
• Success Coaches – support for reading strategies and study habits.
• Library Services – access to research tools and quiet study areas.


Bear Tip: Read actively, take notes, and connect ideas — that’s how college reading turns into learning!

Tip 1: Prepare yourself and your space when reading:

Different types of textbook and reading assignments require different environments. You wouldn’t read a textbook the same way you would read a novel or a cookbook.

How should you prepare yourself to read a textbook?

  • Plan to read short sections rather than multiple chapters.
  • Read at a time of day when you aren’t tired.
  • Set an intention like reading for 30 minutes straight or reading 15 pages.
  • Eat a healthy snack and avoid sugary, caffeinated drinks.
  • Be comfortable but not too comfortable that you fall asleep.
Tip 2: Survey the chapters and make notes:

When you first open your textbook to read an assigned chapter, you should first SURVEY the chapter. This means flip through the pages and make some initial mental notes, such as how long the chapter is, and if there are review questions or a summary at the end of the chapter. Then follow these steps to begin to think critically about what’s in the chapter:

Tip 3: Annotate as you read:

After you prepare to read and then survey your assigned reading, you finally get to read the text. As you read, you should annotate or take notes while you read. It is best to annotate in your text, but you can also annotate in your notebook.

Annotations that use pictures and some words:

Annotations that use words

Tip 4: Review what was read:

After you finish reading an assigned chapter or article, you aren’t finished with it. You should regularly review what you’ve read to keep the ideas fresh in your mind. What can you do to review a chapter?

Here are some review activities you can try:

Tip 5: Be careful of highlighting and underlining:

Highlighting and underlining are passive reading techniques. To read actively, you need to interact with the text.

If you want to highlight and underline, then you should annotate in your textbook or write notes on what you highlighted and underlined.

 

Take a look at this quick video for college reading tips:

How to Read Your Textbooks More Efficiently - College Info Geek

Testing-Taking Strategies

General test/exam-taking tips:

  • Create study tools and recite/ recreate them from memory. Try creating a study guide, flashcards, chart, table, or outline.
  • Create self-tests and take them. Predict test questions or essay questions to create your own self-test. You can also answer sample questions from your textbook.
  • Teach someone else. Review material with a partner or study group. Be sure to explain/ teach material out loud to group members.

College Test & Exam Tips

Category

Key Strategies

Before the Test/Exam

• Study 45–60 minutes daily (with breaks) at least a week before.
• Ask what the test covers and how it’s organized.
• Use notes and textbooks to make a study guide.
• Write sample essay questions to review.
• Visualize success.

During the Test/Exam

• Write down what you know before starting.
• Scan the test and plan your time.
• Read directions carefully.
• Answer easy questions first; guess if unsure.
• Underline key terms.
• Don’t rush—use all your time.
• Check answers before submitting.

After the Test/Exam

• Ask for feedback on unclear questions.
• Review and correct mistakes.
• Reflect on what worked and what didn’t.
• Compare your answers with your study materials.
• Reward yourself for effort!


Bear Tip: Prepare early, stay calm, and learn from every test — success builds one exam at a time!


Concentration is Key

Knowing how to concentrate is more important than you may think:

When students concentrate deeply, they process information more effectively. Focus allows the brain to store and recall material during exams, discussions, and assignments.

College Student Tips for Concentration

Category

Tips

1.   Set Clear Goals

• Break big tasks into smaller steps.
• Use a study method (Pomodoro, Distributed Practice, or 2:1 Method) and remember to take breaks
• Write a to-do list at the start of each day.

2.   Manage Your Environment

• Study in a quiet, distraction-free space.
• Turn off phone notifications or use “Focus Mode.”
• Keep only what you need on your desk.

3.   Plan Study Time Wisley

• Work when your energy is highest (morning or night).
• Schedule short breaks to refresh your mind.
• Rotate subjects to prevent burnout.

4.   Strengthen Your Mind

• Practice mindfulness or meditation daily.
• Avoid multitasking — focus on one task at a time.
• Get 7–9 hours of sleep for better memory and focus.

5.   Fuel Your Brain

• Eat healthy snacks (nuts, fruit, yogurt).
• Stay hydrated — dehydration hurts concentration.
• Limit caffeine and sugary drinks.

6.   Use Study Support

• Join or form a study group for accountability.
• Visit tutoring centers or success coaches on campus.
• Reward yourself for completing goals.


Mid-Terms & Final Exams

How to manage the stress of mid-terms and final exams:

Creating a clear plan and beginning your preparation early can make mid-terms and final exams much less overwhelming. Consider forming study groups and choosing a quiet, productive workspace to boost your efficiency. Along the way, use study tools like guides, flashcards, or practice questions — and don’t forget to prioritize rest and good sleep.

College Student Study Plan for Mid-Terms & Final Exams

Step

Goal

Strategies & Tips

Step 1: Plan Your Schedule

Map out your exam period so nothing sneaks up on you.

• List your finals (date, time, type)
• Prioritize by difficulty or exam date
• Create a countdown calendar
• Block study times (2–3 hrs per subject)
• Tip: Use color-coding or digital planners

Step 2: Organize Your Materials

Have everything you need before studying.

• Gather notes, slides, textbooks, old exams
• Outline topics to be covered
• Identify weak areas
• Make flashcards or summary sheets
• Tip: Rewriting notes improves memory

Step 3: Use Effective Study Techniques

Study smart, not just long.

• Use a study method (Pomodoro, Distributed Practice, or 2:1 Method) and remember to take breaks
• Active recall (quiz yourself)
• Spaced repetition over several days
• Teach material out loud

• Tip: Study hardest subjects during your peak time

Step 4: Collaborate & Get Support

Use your academic and social support network.

• Join or form study groups
• Visit tutoring centers or coaches
• Attend professor office hours
• Share and discuss guides
• Tip: Teaching others reinforces your learning

Step 5: Take Care of Yourself

Protect your mental and physical health.

• Sleep 7–9 hours nightly
• Eat balanced meals, stay hydrated
• Exercise or stretch regularly
• Take breaks to recharge
• Tip: A clear, rested mind performs best

Step 6: Exam Week Strategy

Approach finals week with confidence.

• Review summaries and key concepts
• Avoid last-minute cramming
• Pack exam essentials early
• Use breathing techniques to stay calm
• Tip: Trust your preparation — you’ve got this!

 


Unmotivated to study

Lack of motivation is something almost every college student struggles with at some point. You feel unmotivated to look at notes, crack open a book, or even attend class. It’s important to learn strategies for getting yourself Re-Motivated so you can get back on track!

How to Study When You Have No Motivation

Step

Focus

Tips & Strategies

1. Start Small — Really Small

Ease into studying by starting small to build momentum.

• Start with just 5–10 minutes.
• Focus on one page or one problem.
• Break large goals into smaller tasks.
• Tip: Even 10 minutes of focus counts as progress.

2. Focus on Discipline, Not Motivation

Build consistent habits rather than waiting to ‘feel’ motivated.

• Stick to a daily study routine.
• Set a start time and place.
• Reward yourself for completing sessions.
• Tip: Discipline creates motivation over time.

3. Use the '2-Minute Rule'

Overcome procrastination with quick, low-effort actions.

• Start with small actions that take under two minutes.
• Open your notes or read a short paragraph.
• Tip: Action comes before motivation — not the other way around.

4. Connect to Your 'Why'

Reconnect with your personal goals and reasons for success.

• Reflect on why you’re in college or your career goals.
• Visualize success and future outcomes.
• Tip: A strong purpose renews motivation.

5. Add Physical Exercise

Boost focus and mood through movement.

• Take short breaks to stretch, walk, or do light workouts.
• Exercise releases endorphins that increase energy and focus.
• Tip: Move your body — your mind will follow.

6. Change Your Environment

Switch locations to reset your energy and focus.

• Study somewhere new like the library or café.
• Play background music or ambient sounds.
• Keep your desk clutter-free.
• Tip: A new space can restart your focus.

7. Get Accountability

Use social support to stay consistent.

• Join or form a study group.
• Share your goals with a friend or coach.
• Tip: Accountability makes studying less lonely.

8. Be Kind to Yourself

Practice self-compassion on hard days.

• Accept that motivation fluctuates.
• Focus on progress, not perfection.
• Celebrate small wins.
• Tip: Showing up is already a success.


Time Management In College

Managing your time wisely:

Creating a clear plan and beginning your preparation early can make mid-terms and final exams much less overwhelming. Consider forming study groups and choosing a quiet, productive workspace to boost your efficiency. Along the way, use study tools like guides, flashcards.

Time Management & Studying

College brings freedom — but also responsibility. Managing your time well helps you balance classes, studying, work, and personal life. Good time management reduces stress, prevents last-minute cramming, and improves grades and overall well-being.

Don’t overload your memory

Instead of trying to remember everything at once, make a to-do list and highlight the most important tasks first. Prioritizing helps you stay focused on what truly matters.

Get organized and plan ahead

Use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of deadlines and study sessions. Tools like a 'quarter-at-a-glance' or 'time finder' can help you visualize your schedule and manage your time better.

Cut out distractions

Limit anything that pulls your attention away from studying — like your phone, TV, or streaming apps. The fewer distractions, the easier it is to stay productive.

Don’t cram — plan

Avoid last-minute studying by creating a structured study schedule. Include details like when, where, and what you’ll study each day, plus the methods you’ll use. Sticking to your plan keeps you on track and reduces stress.

Learn to say “no”

When exams are coming up, it’s okay to turn down extra commitments. Protect your time and energy so you can focus on preparing effectively.

Bear in mind: Good organization and time management are the keys to success!

Time Management in College

Section

Focus

Tips & Strategies

1. Plan Ahead

Stay ahead of deadlines and manage long-term assignments.

• Use a planner or digital calendar for deadlines
• Review syllabi weekly and plan ahead
• Break big projects into smaller, manageable goals
• Tip: Plan your week every Sunday night

2. Prioritize Your Tasks

Identify what truly needs your attention first.

• Separate urgent vs. important tasks
• Use color-coding for deadlines
• Focus on one thing at a time
• Tip: Try the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize effectively

3. Create a Daily Routine

Build structure into your day for consistent productivity.

• Study at the same time daily
• Block time for 45–60 minute sessions
• Include meals, breaks, and exercise
• Tip: Treat study time like a real appointment

4. Avoid Procrastination

Beat distractions and start tasks early.

• Begin with easier tasks to build momentum
• Limit phone and social media use
• Use a study method (Pomodoro, Distributed Practice, or 2:1 Method) and remember to take breaks
• Tip: Small progress is better than no progress

5. Learn to Say 'No'

Protect your schedule and energy.

• Don’t overcommit to activities or social plans
• Prioritize studying before exams
• Respect your boundaries
• Tip: Saying no to distractions means saying yes to your goals

6. Take Care of Yourself

Balance productivity with wellness.

• Sleep 7–9 hours per night
• Eat well and exercise regularly
• Schedule rest time to recharge
• Tip: A rested mind stays focused and alert

7. Review and Adjust

Reflect and improve your time management each week.

• Review your progress weekly
• Adjust based on what works best
• Keep experimenting to find your rhythm
• Tip: Time management is a habit you refine over time

 

Take a quick look at this short time management video for tips also.

Time Management


Procrastination

Avoiding Procrastination:

Procrastination often leads to rushed assignments and last-minute cramming. When you manage your time better and start early, you produce higher-quality work and better understand the material — which usually means better grades. Doing your best requires giving yourself enough time to think, plan, and revise.

How College Students Can Stop Procrastinating

Step

Focus

Quick Tips & Strategies

1. Know Why You Procrastinate

Identify what’s holding you back.

• Tasks feel too big
• Fear of failure
• Too many distractions
• Awareness = control

2. Break It Down

Make large tasks manageable.

• Divide into smaller steps
• Do one part at a time
• Progress over perfection

3. Try a study method

Stay focused in short bursts.

• 25 min work / 5 min break
• Longer break after 4 rounds
• Timers boost discipline

4. Stick to a Schedule

Build a steady routine.

• Plan when & where to study
• Treat it like a class
• Consistency beats cramming

5. Cut Distractions

Focus fully on one task.

• Silence phone
• Block apps/sites
• Find a quiet space
• Out of sight = out of mind

6. Find Accountability

Use others for motivation.

• Study with a friend
• Share goals weekly
• Support builds habits

7. Take Care of Yourself

Balance energy and focus.

• Sleep, eat, and move daily
• Take short breaks
• Healthy body = clear mind

8. Just Start!

Action fuels motivation.

• Work for 'just 10 minutes'
• Momentum will carry you
• Starting is the hardest part


Bear Tip: Start small, stay steady, and success will follow!

Take a quick look at this short video for tips avoiding procrastination.

Stop Procrastinating


Communicating With Professors

Sending an effective email to your professors:

Good communication helps you form a positive connection with your professors. When you reach out, they get to know you as a student — not just a name on the roster. These relationships can lead to mentorship, guidance, and future recommendation letters.

College Student Tips: Talking to Your Professor

Tip

Focus

Quick Advice

1. Be Respectful & Professional

Use polite, academic communication.

• Address as 'Professor' or 'Dr.'
• Be courteous & on time
• Respect builds trust

2. Plan Before You Speak

Know your reason for meeting.

• Prepare questions
• Review notes first
• Preparation = clarity

3. Write Effective Emails

Keep messages short and clear.

• Use a short subject line
• Include name & course
• Proofread before sending
• Clear emails show respect

4. Use Office Hours Wisely

Meet early & come prepared.

• Don’t wait until exams
• Bring notes or questions
• Office hours = success time

5. Be Honest & Accountable

Take ownership of your learning.

• Be upfront about issues
• Ask how to improve
• Responsibility earns respect

6. Build Positive Relationships

Stay engaged & show appreciation.

• Participate in class
• Thank your professor
• Stay connected for mentorship
• Good rapport opens doors


Bear Tip: Professors are here to help — communication is key to success!

Take a quick look at this video for tips on emailing your professor.

Talking to Your Instructor

 


Attending Professor Office Hours

Never be afraid to meet with your professor:

What are office hours? Office hours are set times when professors are available to meet with students outside of class. You can stop by to ask questions, get feedback, or discuss course material.

They’re not just for students who are struggling — they’re for anyone who wants to learn, connect, and succeed.

Think of office hours as free one-on-one tutoring from the person who wrote the exam!

College Students: Making the Most of Professor Office Hours

Section

Focus

Tips & Strategies

1. What Are Office Hours?

Times when professors are available to help students.

• Ask questions, get feedback, or discuss material.
• Attend even if you’re doing well.
• Think of office hours as one-on-one help.

2. Why Office Hours Matter

Helps you succeed academically and build relationships.

• Clarify lectures or assignments.
• Get academic or career advice.
• Show initiative and care.
• Professors notice engaged students.

3. When to Go

Choose times that make the most impact.

• Before exams or major projects.
• After feedback or when confused.
• Go early—don’t wait until you’re behind.

4. What to Talk About

Bring specific topics or questions.

• Discuss class topics or study tips.
• Ask about improvement strategies.
• Prepare your questions ahead.

5. How to Be Professional

Show respect and preparation.

• Arrive on time.
• Be polite and focused.
• Thank your professor afterward.
• Effort and respect make a strong impression.

6. Benefits of Office Hours

Gain confidence, clarity, and support.

• Improve understanding and grades.
• Build mentorship connections.
• Regular visits lead to long-term success.


Bear Tip: Office hours aren’t just for help—they’re for growth and connection!

 


Managing & Reducing Stress

Stress as a college student

College life can be exciting and challenging, but it can also be stressful. Understanding what causes stress and learning effective ways to manage it are key to staying healthy, focused, and successful.

Stress Management for College Students

Topic

Key Points

What Is Stress?

Stress is the body’s response to pressure or challenges. A small amount can motivate you, but too much can impact focus, health, and performance.

Causes of Stress

• Academic pressure and deadlines
• Financial responsibilities
• Lack of sleep or poor time management
• Social or family challenges

Common Symptoms

• Trouble concentrating or sleeping
• Fatigue or headaches
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or overwhelmed
• Decline in motivation or grades

Strategies for Stress Relief

• Practice self-care: sleep well, eat healthy, and stay active.
• Plan ahead to avoid last-minute stress.
• Take regular breaks while studying.
• Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or journaling.
• Stay connected with friends and loved ones.

Preventing Burnout

• Balance academics, work, and personal time.
• Set realistic goals and boundaries.
• Learn to say no when overwhelmed.
• Take time for activities you enjoy.

Campus Support Resources

• Center for Academic Success & Achievement (CASA) – Tutoring, study strategies, and academic support.

      Center for Academic Success and Achievement


• Counseling  Center – Free counseling, workshops, and support groups.

      Counseling Center


Bear Tip: Managing stress takes practice—balance, rest, and support lead to lasting success!

 


Setting Your Goals

Why set goals?

Setting goals gives your college journey direction and purpose. Goals help you stay motivated, manage your time wisely, and track your progress.
When you set clear, realistic goals, you’re more likely to stay focused and achieve the results you want — in school, your career, and your personal life.

  • A goal without a plan is just a wish.

Goal Setting Strategies

  1. Reflect on What You Want

Think about your values, priorities, and motivations. Your goals should align with your purpose and passions.

Reflection Question

Your Response

What do you want to achieve this semester?

 

What areas of your life (academic, personal, career) do you want to improve?

 

What motivates you most right now?

 

 

  1. Break Big Goals into Small Steps

Big goals = small actions over time. Start small and be consistent.

Goal

Steps You’ll Take

Timeline

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Anticipate Challenges and Create Actionable Strategies

What might get in your way? Write them down.

What actionable strategies can you use to overcome challenges? Write them down.

Possible Challenges (example)

Strategies to Overcome Challenges (example)

I get overwhelmed by large assignments.

Break tasks into smaller steps and use a daily planner.

I procrastinate or lose focus.

Use the Pomodoro Technique or schedule study breaks.

I don’t understand the material.

Visit tutoring or attend professor office hours.

I work long hours and feel tired.

Create a realistic study schedule around your shifts.

I feel discouraged when I fall behind.     

Meet with a CASA Success Coach for support and motivation.

 

Now you try:     

 

Possible Challenges

Strategies to Overcome Challenges

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Write Down and Track Your Goals

Keep your goals visible — in your phone, planner, or notebook. Revisit them weekly and note your progress.

Written goals = stronger commitment.

  1. Make Adjustments When Needed

Check in regularly. Adjust your goals if life changes. Don’t quit — refocus.

Challenge

Adjustment

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Celebrate Your Progress

Recognize your wins — big or small. Reward your effort and keep building momentum!


Bear Tip: Progress comes from reflection, action, and flexibility. CASA Success Coaches can help you stay focused and reach your goals!


Online Educational Resources

Use online learning resources to increase your success.

You can learn anything and there are hundreds of online resources that can help you! 

Khan Academy is one such resource. Khan Academy provides simple instructional videos that can help you learn more about a variety of subjects such as: