How to Thrive Intellectually at UC San Diego

Congratulations on coming to UC San Diego!!!
Here are some tips from current students on how to do your best in your classes and thrive intellectually:

• Get organized. This isn't high school. Professors don't hold your hand and remind you when assignments are due. Often, you're given a syllabus at the beginning of the quarter with all of the due dates. Use your planner and stay on top of homeworks and quizzes.
  
  


• Talk to your professors. If you're having a problem understanding material, stay after class or go to office hours and talk with your professor. They love the attention of a student wanting to understand the material better (or just wanting to learn more). Talking with professors is also a good way to find out if they have research you can help them with (a job!) or connections in your field of study (a future job!).
  
  



• Go to class. Most classes have some sort of attendance that counts toward your overall grade. Also, professors often give hints toward the midterm or final if you are in class. Don't miss these valuable 'easy points.'
  



• Find a balance. Study is important to doing well in college, but don't let it become your sole activity. Get out and experience the activities on campus, or enjoy all that San Diego has to offer, like the beach or museums.
  
  



• Don't feel pressured about your major. If your parents want you to be a doctor, but you want to be a lawyer, do what you want! Parents often have an idea of what they see their child growing up to be, but it doesn't always follow what you want. Your parents will not love you any less for following what you want to do; in the end, you're the one going to school and doing the homework, so it might as well be something you like. For students with an undecided major, take your time and figure out what interests you. Don't feel like you have to decide right away.