The # 1 predictor of academic success is regular attendance.
Get to know your professors.
Introduce yourself to your professors during the first week or two of classes, and do not hesitate to take advantage of their office hours throughout the semester.
Constantly self-evaluate.
Are you studying enough to obtain the grades you desire? Are you making friends and getting involved? Taking the MAP-Works surveys can help you make the most of your first year at NIU.
Balance your life.
Make certain you are eating well, exercising, and making time for friends and family. The Holmes Student Center and the residence halls provide a variety of meal options, and Recreation Services offers exercise equipment, fitness classes, personal trainers, nutrition services, and intramural sports.
Utilize MyNIU, Blackboard, and your NIU email.
Check these sources regularly to stay on top of your courses, financial aid, bursars account, and important deadlines.
Meet with your advisor regularly.
Your advisor can help you explore interests, map out your schedule, monitor your academic progress, clarify your educational and life goals, identify activities and opportunities to enhance your academic experience.
Stay on top of money matters.
Make certain that you devise a budget and stick to it. NIU’s Financial Cents program offers a variety of tips and tricks to make the most of your money.
Own your campus and make a difference.
There are many leadership and research opportunities available to students. Consider becoming involved in the Leaders & Scholars which combines a scholarship with campus service and 1 credit leadership course.
Plan ahead and consider applying for scholarships for the remainder of your undergraduate studies and beyond.
NIU offers a number of scholarship opportunities by visiting the Scholarship Office. In addition, there are a number of highly competitive, prestigious scholarships available from a variety of external sources. The Office of Student Academic Success can help you identify opportunities and chart a course to be a successful candidate for the following:
