{"id":52,"date":"2014-08-25T03:19:35","date_gmt":"2014-08-25T03:19:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/courses.candelalearning.com\/collegesuccess1x1\/?post_type=chapter&#038;p=52"},"modified":"2020-07-30T21:55:15","modified_gmt":"2020-07-30T21:55:15","slug":"1-4-what-is-college-really","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/courses.lumenlearning.com\/fullcoll-freshmanexperience\/chapter\/1-4-what-is-college-really\/","title":{"raw":"What Is College, Really?","rendered":"What Is College, Really?"},"content":{"raw":"&nbsp;\r\n<div class=\"bcc-box bcc-highlight\">\r\n<h3>LEARNING OBJECTIVES<\/h3>\r\nBy the end of this section, you will be able to:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Describe differences between large and small college classes and discuss the implications for learning.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Understand courses within your own college program: core courses, electives, and major courses.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Describe different skills needed for online courses.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Know how to learn your college\u2019s policies and understand their importance.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Know what resources your college makes available to students and how to access them.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div class=\"im_section\"><\/div>\r\n<div class=\"im_section\">\r\n<div id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s01\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/courses-images-archive-read-only\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/466\/2015\/02\/21065003\/P5110020.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-461\" src=\"https:\/\/s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/courses-images-archive-read-only\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/466\/2015\/02\/21065003\/P5110020-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" \/><\/a>Big Classes, Small Classes<\/h2>\r\nWhile most high school classes are fairly small, many college classes are large\u2014up to several hundred students in a large lecture class. Other classes you may take will be as small as high school classes. In large lecture classes you may feel totally anonymous\u2014even invisible\u2014in a very large class. This feeling can get some students in trouble, however. Here are some common mistaken assumptions and attitudes about large classes:\r\n<ul id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s01_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\r\n \t<li>The instructor won\u2019t notice me sitting there, so I can check e-mail or read for a different class if I get bored.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>The instructor doesn\u2019t know my name or recognize me, so I don\u2019t even need to go to class as long as I can borrow someone\u2019s notes to find out what happens.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>I hate listening to lectures, so I might as well think about something else because I\u2019m not going to learn anything this way anyway.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nThese comments all share the same flawed attitude about college: it\u2019s up to the instructor to teach in an entertaining way if I am to learn at all\u2014and it\u2019s actually the college\u2019s or instructor\u2019s fault that I\u2019m stuck in this large class, so they\u2019re to blame if I think about or do other things. But remember, <em class=\"im_emphasis\">in college, you take responsibility for your own learning<\/em>. Sure, a student is free to try to sleep in a lecture class, or not attend the class at all\u2014the same way a student is \u201cfree\u201d to fail any class he or she chooses!\r\n\r\nIf you dislike large lecture classes but can\u2019t avoid them, the best solution is to learn how to learn in such a situation. Later chapters will give you tips for improving this experience. Just remember that it\u2019s up to you to stay actively engaged in your own learning while in college\u2014it\u2019s not the instructor\u2019s job to entertain you enough to \u201cmake\u201d you learn.\r\n\r\nThere is one thing you need to know right away. Even in a lecture hall holding three hundred students, your instructors <em class=\"im_emphasis\">do<\/em> know who you are. They may not know your name right away or even by the end of the term, but they see you sitting there, doing whatever you are doing, looking wherever you are looking\u2014and will form a distinct impression of you. Instructors do have <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">academic integrity<\/span><\/span> and won\u2019t lower your grade on an exam because you slept once in class, but the impression you make just might affect how far instructors go out of their way to offer a helping hand. Interacting with instructors is a crucial part of education\u2014and the primary way students learn. Successful interaction begins with good communication and mutual respect. If you want your instructors to respect you, then you need to show respect for them and their classes as well.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s02\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Core Courses, Electives, Majors, and Credits<\/h2>\r\nEvery college has its own course requirements for different programs and degrees. This information is available in the online <a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.nocccd.edu\/fullerton-college\/\">Fullerton College Catalog<\/a>. While counselors are available to students to help them plot their path through college and take the most appropriate courses, you should also take this responsibility yourself to ensure you are registering for courses that fit well into your plan for a program completion or degree. In general there are three types of courses:\r\n<ol id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s02_l01\" class=\"im_orderedlist im_editable im_block\">\r\n \t<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">General Education courses<\/strong>\u00a0involve a range of courses from which you can choose to meet this general requirement. You may need to take one or more English classes, math or foreign language requirements. You will need a certain number of credits or course hours in certain types of core courses, but you can often choose among various specific courses for how you meet these requirements.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Required courses in your major<\/strong> are determined by individual academic departments. Whether you choose to major in English, math, engineering, history, a health field, chemistry, business, or any other field, your individual department sets specific required courses you must take and gives you options for a required additional number of credits in the department. You may not need to declare a major for a while, but this is something you can start thinking about now.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Electives<\/strong> are courses you choose freely to complete the total number of college credits needed for your program or degree. How many electives you may take, how they \u201ccount\u201d toward your total, and what kinds of courses are acceptable as electives all vary considerably among different schools and programs.<a href=\"https:\/\/s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/courses-images-archive-read-only\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/466\/2015\/04\/21065034\/textbooks.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-501\" src=\"https:\/\/s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/courses-images-archive-read-only\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/466\/2015\/04\/21065034\/textbooks.jpg\" alt=\"Textbooks stacked up\" width=\"180\" height=\"240\" \/><\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\nMost important is that you understand what courses you need and how each counts. Study the college catalog carefully and be sure to talk things over fully with your advisor. Don\u2019t just sign up for courses that sound interesting\u2014you might end up taking courses that don\u2019t count toward your degree at all.\r\n\r\nIn addition, each semester you may have to choose how many courses or units to take. Colleges have rules about the maximum number of hours allowed for full-time students, but this maximum may in fact be more than you are prepared to manage\u2014especially if you work or have other responsibilities. Taking a light course load, while allowing more time for studying and other activities, could add up over time and result in an extra full year of college (or more!)\u2014at significant additional expense. Part-time students often face decisions based more on time issues. Everyone\u2019s situation is unique, however, and all students should talk this issue over with their counselor each year or semester.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s03\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Online Courses<\/h2>\r\nMost colleges now offer some online courses or regular courses with an <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">online<\/span><\/span> component. You experience an online course via a computer rather than a classroom. Many different variations exist, but all online courses share certain characteristics, such as working independently and communicating with the instructor (and sometimes other students) primarily through written computer messages. If you have never taken an online course, carefully consider what\u2019s involved to ensure you will succeed in the course.\r\n<ul id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s03_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\r\n \t<li>You need to own or have frequent access to a recent model of computer with a high-speed Internet connection.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Without the set hours of a class, you need to be self-motivating to schedule your time to participate regularly.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Without an instructor or other students in the room, you need to be able to pay attention effectively to the computer screen. Learning on a computer is not as simple as passively watching television! Take notes.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Without reminders in class and peer pressure from other students, you\u2019ll need to take responsibility to complete all assignments and papers on time.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Since your instructor will evaluate you primarily through your writing, you need good writing skills for an online course. If you believe you need to improve your writing skills, put off taking an online course until you feel better prepared.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>You must take the initiative to ask questions if you don\u2019t understand something.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>You may need to be creative to find other ways to interact with other students in the course. You could form a study group and get together regularly in person with other students in the same course.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nIf you feel you are ready to take on these responsibilities and are attracted to the flexibility of an online course and the freedom to schedule your time in it, see what your college has available.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s04\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Class Attendance and Promptness<\/h2>\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/courses-images-archive-read-only\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/466\/2015\/04\/21065035\/students-in-hall.jpg\"><img class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-502\" src=\"https:\/\/s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/courses-images-archive-read-only\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/466\/2015\/04\/21065035\/students-in-hall.jpg\" alt=\"Students in lecture hall seats\" width=\"240\" height=\"160\" \/><\/a>In some classes at some colleges, attendance is required and absences can affect one\u2019s grade in the course. But even when attendance is not required, missing classes will inevitably affect your grade as well. You\u2019re not learning if you\u2019re not there. Reading another student\u2019s notes is not the same.\r\n\r\nArriving to class promptly is also important. Walking into a class that has already begun is rude to the instructor (remember what we said earlier about the impression you may be making) and to other students. A mature student respects the instructor and other students and in turn receives respect back.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s05\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">College Policies<\/h2>\r\nA college campus is almost like a small town\u2014or country\u2014unto itself. The campus has its own police force, its own government, its own stores, its own ID cards, its own parking rules, and so on. Colleges also have their own policies regarding many types of activities and behaviors. Students who do not understand the rules can sometimes find themselves in trouble.\r\n\r\nThe most important academic policy is <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">academic honesty<\/span><\/span>. Cheating is taken very seriously. Some high school students may have only received a slap on the wrist if caught looking at another student\u2019s paper during a test or turning in a paper containing sentences or paragraphs found online or purchased from a \u201cterm-paper mill.\u201d In many colleges, academic dishonesty like this may result in automatic failure of the course\u2014or even expulsion from college. The principle of academic honesty is simple: every student must do his or her own work. If you have any doubt of what this means for a paper you are writing, a project you are doing with other students, or anything else, check the college Web site for its policy statements or talk with your instructor.\r\n\r\nColleges also have policies about alcohol and drug use, sexual harassment, hazing, hate crimes, and other potential problems. Residence halls have policies about noise limits, visitors, hours, structural and cosmetic alterations of university property, and so on. The college registrar has policies about course add and drop dates, payment schedules and refunds, and the like. Such policies are designed to ensure that all students have the same right to a quality education\u2014one not unfairly interrupted by the actions of others. You can find these policies on the college Web site or in the catalog.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s06\" class=\"im_section\">\r\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">College Resources<\/h2>\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/courses-images-archive-read-only\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/466\/2015\/04\/21065036\/side-view-of-brochures.jpg\"><img class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-503\" src=\"https:\/\/s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/courses-images-archive-read-only\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/466\/2015\/04\/21065036\/side-view-of-brochures.jpg\" alt=\"side view of brochures\" width=\"240\" height=\"160\" \/><\/a>To be successful in college, you need to be fully informed and make wise decisions about the courses you register for, college policies, and additional resources. Always remember that your college <em class=\"im_emphasis\">wants<\/em> you to succeed. That means that if you are having any difficulties or have any questions whose answers you are unsure about, there are college resources available to help you get assistance or find answers. This is true of both academic and personal issues that could potentially disrupt your college experience. <em class=\"im_emphasis\">Never<\/em> hesitate to go looking for help or information\u2014but realize that usually <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">you have to take the first step<\/strong>.\r\n\r\nThe college catalog has already been mentioned as a great source of many kinds of information. You should have an updated catalog every year or know where to find it online.\r\n\r\nThe college\u2019s Web site is the second place to look for help. Students are often surprised to see how much information is available online, including information about college programs, offices, special assistance programs, and so on, as well as helpful information such as studying tips, personal health, financial help, and other resources. Take some time to explore your college\u2019s Web site and learn what is available\u2014this could save you a lot of time in the future if you experience any difficulty.\r\n\r\nIn addition, many colleges have offices or individuals that can help in a variety of ways. Following are some of the resources your college may have. Learn more about your <a href=\"https:\/\/vpss.fullcoll.edu\/student-services-remote\/\">Fullerton College\u2019s resources online<\/a>\u00a0or by visiting the office of student services or the dean of student services.\r\n<ul id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s06_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\r\n \t<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Counseling office.<\/strong> This office helps with personal problems, including health, stress management, interpersonal issues, and so on.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Financial aid office.<\/strong> If you are presently receiving financial aid or may qualify for assistance, you should know this office well.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Tutoring or skill centers.<\/strong> The title of this resource varies among colleges, but most have special places where students can go for additional help for their courses. There may be a separate math center, writing center, or general study skills center.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Computer lab.<\/strong> Before almost all students became skilled in computer use and had their own computers, colleges built labs where students could use campus computers and receive training or help resolving technical problems. Many campuses still maintain computer centers to assist students with technical issues.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Student health clinic.<\/strong> In addition to providing some basic medical care and making referrals, most college student health centers also help with issues such as diet and exercise counseling, birth control services, and preventive health care.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Career and Life Planning Center.<\/strong> This center can help you find a student job or internship, plan for your career after graduation, and receive career counseling.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<ul id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s06_l02\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\r\n \t<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Disability Support Services Office.<\/strong> This office may provide various services to help students with disabilities adapt within the college environment.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Office of student affairs or student organizations.<\/strong> Participating in a group of like-minded students often supports academic success.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Other specialized offices for student populations.<\/strong> These may include an office supporting students who speak English as a second language, adult students returning to college, international students, religious students, students with children (possibly a child-care center), veterans of the armed services, students preparing for certain types of careers, and so on.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Your instructors.<\/strong> It never hurts to ask a friendly instructor if he or she knows of any additional college resources you haven\u2019t yet discovered. There may be a brand new program on campus, or a certain department may offer a service not widely promoted through the college Web site.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\nEveryone needs help at some time\u2014you should never feel embarrassed or ashamed to seek help. Remember that a part of your tuition and fees are going to these offices, and you have every right to take advantage of them.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div id=\"post-355\" class=\"post-355 chapter type-chapter status-publish hentry type-1\">\r\n<div class=\"entry-content\">\r\n<div class=\"im_section\">\r\n<div class=\"im_section\">\r\n<div id=\"mclean-ch03_s01_s02_n01\" class=\"im_key_takeaways im_editable im_block\">\r\n<div class=\"bcc-box bcc-success\">\r\n<h3>KEY TAKEAWAYs<\/h3>\r\n<section>\r\n<div>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Even in large lecture classes, attendance is important, along with forming a good impression and paying attention.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Study the college catalog and talk with your advisor to ensure you understand the role of core classes, electives, and major courses in your program or degree requirements.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Online courses offer another option in many colleges but require a certain preparedness and a heightened sense of responsibility.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>To avoid inadvertently finding yourself in trouble, know your college\u2019s policies for academic issues and campus behavior.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Taking advantage of the many resources your college offers to help you with a wide range of academic and personal matters is essential for success in college.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/section><\/div>\r\n<div class=\"bcc-box bcc-info\">\r\n<h3>EXERCISES<\/h3>\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li>For each of the following statements, circle T for true or F for false:\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li>\r\n<table cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>T<\/td>\r\n<td>F<\/td>\r\n<td>If your instructor in a large lecture class is boring, there\u2019s nothing you can do except to try to stay awake and hope you never have him or her for another class.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>T<\/td>\r\n<td>F<\/td>\r\n<td>In a large lecture hall, if you sit near the back and pretend to listen, you can write e-mails or send text messages without your instructor noticing.<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li>List three things a college student should be good at in order to succeed in an online course.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Use your imagination and describe three different actions that would violate of your college\u2019s academic honesty policy.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Where on campus would you first go for help choosing your courses for next term? For help with your math class?For a problem coping with a lot of stress? To learn about your options for student loans? To find a better apartment?<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>","rendered":"<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"bcc-box bcc-highlight\">\n<h3>LEARNING OBJECTIVES<\/h3>\n<p>By the end of this section, you will be able to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Describe differences between large and small college classes and discuss the implications for learning.<\/li>\n<li>Understand courses within your own college program: core courses, electives, and major courses.<\/li>\n<li>Describe different skills needed for online courses.<\/li>\n<li>Know how to learn your college\u2019s policies and understand their importance.<\/li>\n<li>Know what resources your college makes available to students and how to access them.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"im_section\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"im_section\">\n<div id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s01\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\"><a href=\"https:\/\/s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/courses-images-archive-read-only\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/466\/2015\/02\/21065003\/P5110020.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-461\" src=\"https:\/\/s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/courses-images-archive-read-only\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/466\/2015\/02\/21065003\/P5110020-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" \/><\/a>Big Classes, Small Classes<\/h2>\n<p>While most high school classes are fairly small, many college classes are large\u2014up to several hundred students in a large lecture class. Other classes you may take will be as small as high school classes. In large lecture classes you may feel totally anonymous\u2014even invisible\u2014in a very large class. This feeling can get some students in trouble, however. Here are some common mistaken assumptions and attitudes about large classes:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s01_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\n<li>The instructor won\u2019t notice me sitting there, so I can check e-mail or read for a different class if I get bored.<\/li>\n<li>The instructor doesn\u2019t know my name or recognize me, so I don\u2019t even need to go to class as long as I can borrow someone\u2019s notes to find out what happens.<\/li>\n<li>I hate listening to lectures, so I might as well think about something else because I\u2019m not going to learn anything this way anyway.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These comments all share the same flawed attitude about college: it\u2019s up to the instructor to teach in an entertaining way if I am to learn at all\u2014and it\u2019s actually the college\u2019s or instructor\u2019s fault that I\u2019m stuck in this large class, so they\u2019re to blame if I think about or do other things. But remember, <em class=\"im_emphasis\">in college, you take responsibility for your own learning<\/em>. Sure, a student is free to try to sleep in a lecture class, or not attend the class at all\u2014the same way a student is \u201cfree\u201d to fail any class he or she chooses!<\/p>\n<p>If you dislike large lecture classes but can\u2019t avoid them, the best solution is to learn how to learn in such a situation. Later chapters will give you tips for improving this experience. Just remember that it\u2019s up to you to stay actively engaged in your own learning while in college\u2014it\u2019s not the instructor\u2019s job to entertain you enough to \u201cmake\u201d you learn.<\/p>\n<p>There is one thing you need to know right away. Even in a lecture hall holding three hundred students, your instructors <em class=\"im_emphasis\">do<\/em> know who you are. They may not know your name right away or even by the end of the term, but they see you sitting there, doing whatever you are doing, looking wherever you are looking\u2014and will form a distinct impression of you. Instructors do have <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">academic integrity<\/span><\/span> and won\u2019t lower your grade on an exam because you slept once in class, but the impression you make just might affect how far instructors go out of their way to offer a helping hand. Interacting with instructors is a crucial part of education\u2014and the primary way students learn. Successful interaction begins with good communication and mutual respect. If you want your instructors to respect you, then you need to show respect for them and their classes as well.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s02\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Core Courses, Electives, Majors, and Credits<\/h2>\n<p>Every college has its own course requirements for different programs and degrees. This information is available in the online <a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.nocccd.edu\/fullerton-college\/\">Fullerton College Catalog<\/a>. While counselors are available to students to help them plot their path through college and take the most appropriate courses, you should also take this responsibility yourself to ensure you are registering for courses that fit well into your plan for a program completion or degree. In general there are three types of courses:<\/p>\n<ol id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s02_l01\" class=\"im_orderedlist im_editable im_block\">\n<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">General Education courses<\/strong>\u00a0involve a range of courses from which you can choose to meet this general requirement. You may need to take one or more English classes, math or foreign language requirements. You will need a certain number of credits or course hours in certain types of core courses, but you can often choose among various specific courses for how you meet these requirements.<\/li>\n<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Required courses in your major<\/strong> are determined by individual academic departments. Whether you choose to major in English, math, engineering, history, a health field, chemistry, business, or any other field, your individual department sets specific required courses you must take and gives you options for a required additional number of credits in the department. You may not need to declare a major for a while, but this is something you can start thinking about now.<\/li>\n<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Electives<\/strong> are courses you choose freely to complete the total number of college credits needed for your program or degree. How many electives you may take, how they \u201ccount\u201d toward your total, and what kinds of courses are acceptable as electives all vary considerably among different schools and programs.<a href=\"https:\/\/s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/courses-images-archive-read-only\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/466\/2015\/04\/21065034\/textbooks.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-501\" src=\"https:\/\/s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/courses-images-archive-read-only\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/466\/2015\/04\/21065034\/textbooks.jpg\" alt=\"Textbooks stacked up\" width=\"180\" height=\"240\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Most important is that you understand what courses you need and how each counts. Study the college catalog carefully and be sure to talk things over fully with your advisor. Don\u2019t just sign up for courses that sound interesting\u2014you might end up taking courses that don\u2019t count toward your degree at all.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, each semester you may have to choose how many courses or units to take. Colleges have rules about the maximum number of hours allowed for full-time students, but this maximum may in fact be more than you are prepared to manage\u2014especially if you work or have other responsibilities. Taking a light course load, while allowing more time for studying and other activities, could add up over time and result in an extra full year of college (or more!)\u2014at significant additional expense. Part-time students often face decisions based more on time issues. Everyone\u2019s situation is unique, however, and all students should talk this issue over with their counselor each year or semester.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s03\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Online Courses<\/h2>\n<p>Most colleges now offer some online courses or regular courses with an <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">online<\/span><\/span> component. You experience an online course via a computer rather than a classroom. Many different variations exist, but all online courses share certain characteristics, such as working independently and communicating with the instructor (and sometimes other students) primarily through written computer messages. If you have never taken an online course, carefully consider what\u2019s involved to ensure you will succeed in the course.<\/p>\n<ul id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s03_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\n<li>You need to own or have frequent access to a recent model of computer with a high-speed Internet connection.<\/li>\n<li>Without the set hours of a class, you need to be self-motivating to schedule your time to participate regularly.<\/li>\n<li>Without an instructor or other students in the room, you need to be able to pay attention effectively to the computer screen. Learning on a computer is not as simple as passively watching television! Take notes.<\/li>\n<li>Without reminders in class and peer pressure from other students, you\u2019ll need to take responsibility to complete all assignments and papers on time.<\/li>\n<li>Since your instructor will evaluate you primarily through your writing, you need good writing skills for an online course. If you believe you need to improve your writing skills, put off taking an online course until you feel better prepared.<\/li>\n<li>You must take the initiative to ask questions if you don\u2019t understand something.<\/li>\n<li>You may need to be creative to find other ways to interact with other students in the course. You could form a study group and get together regularly in person with other students in the same course.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you feel you are ready to take on these responsibilities and are attracted to the flexibility of an online course and the freedom to schedule your time in it, see what your college has available.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s04\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">Class Attendance and Promptness<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/courses-images-archive-read-only\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/466\/2015\/04\/21065035\/students-in-hall.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-full wp-image-502\" src=\"https:\/\/s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/courses-images-archive-read-only\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/466\/2015\/04\/21065035\/students-in-hall.jpg\" alt=\"Students in lecture hall seats\" width=\"240\" height=\"160\" \/><\/a>In some classes at some colleges, attendance is required and absences can affect one\u2019s grade in the course. But even when attendance is not required, missing classes will inevitably affect your grade as well. You\u2019re not learning if you\u2019re not there. Reading another student\u2019s notes is not the same.<\/p>\n<p>Arriving to class promptly is also important. Walking into a class that has already begun is rude to the instructor (remember what we said earlier about the impression you may be making) and to other students. A mature student respects the instructor and other students and in turn receives respect back.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s05\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">College Policies<\/h2>\n<p>A college campus is almost like a small town\u2014or country\u2014unto itself. The campus has its own police force, its own government, its own stores, its own ID cards, its own parking rules, and so on. Colleges also have their own policies regarding many types of activities and behaviors. Students who do not understand the rules can sometimes find themselves in trouble.<\/p>\n<p>The most important academic policy is <span class=\"im_margin_term\"><span class=\"im_glossterm\">academic honesty<\/span><\/span>. Cheating is taken very seriously. Some high school students may have only received a slap on the wrist if caught looking at another student\u2019s paper during a test or turning in a paper containing sentences or paragraphs found online or purchased from a \u201cterm-paper mill.\u201d In many colleges, academic dishonesty like this may result in automatic failure of the course\u2014or even expulsion from college. The principle of academic honesty is simple: every student must do his or her own work. If you have any doubt of what this means for a paper you are writing, a project you are doing with other students, or anything else, check the college Web site for its policy statements or talk with your instructor.<\/p>\n<p>Colleges also have policies about alcohol and drug use, sexual harassment, hazing, hate crimes, and other potential problems. Residence halls have policies about noise limits, visitors, hours, structural and cosmetic alterations of university property, and so on. The college registrar has policies about course add and drop dates, payment schedules and refunds, and the like. Such policies are designed to ensure that all students have the same right to a quality education\u2014one not unfairly interrupted by the actions of others. You can find these policies on the college Web site or in the catalog.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s06\" class=\"im_section\">\n<h2 class=\"im_title im_editable im_block\">College Resources<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/courses-images-archive-read-only\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/466\/2015\/04\/21065036\/side-view-of-brochures.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-503\" src=\"https:\/\/s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/courses-images-archive-read-only\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/466\/2015\/04\/21065036\/side-view-of-brochures.jpg\" alt=\"side view of brochures\" width=\"240\" height=\"160\" \/><\/a>To be successful in college, you need to be fully informed and make wise decisions about the courses you register for, college policies, and additional resources. Always remember that your college <em class=\"im_emphasis\">wants<\/em> you to succeed. That means that if you are having any difficulties or have any questions whose answers you are unsure about, there are college resources available to help you get assistance or find answers. This is true of both academic and personal issues that could potentially disrupt your college experience. <em class=\"im_emphasis\">Never<\/em> hesitate to go looking for help or information\u2014but realize that usually <strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">you have to take the first step<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>The college catalog has already been mentioned as a great source of many kinds of information. You should have an updated catalog every year or know where to find it online.<\/p>\n<p>The college\u2019s Web site is the second place to look for help. Students are often surprised to see how much information is available online, including information about college programs, offices, special assistance programs, and so on, as well as helpful information such as studying tips, personal health, financial help, and other resources. Take some time to explore your college\u2019s Web site and learn what is available\u2014this could save you a lot of time in the future if you experience any difficulty.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, many colleges have offices or individuals that can help in a variety of ways. Following are some of the resources your college may have. Learn more about your <a href=\"https:\/\/vpss.fullcoll.edu\/student-services-remote\/\">Fullerton College\u2019s resources online<\/a>\u00a0or by visiting the office of student services or the dean of student services.<\/p>\n<ul id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s06_l01\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\n<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Counseling office.<\/strong> This office helps with personal problems, including health, stress management, interpersonal issues, and so on.<\/li>\n<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Financial aid office.<\/strong> If you are presently receiving financial aid or may qualify for assistance, you should know this office well.<\/li>\n<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Tutoring or skill centers.<\/strong> The title of this resource varies among colleges, but most have special places where students can go for additional help for their courses. There may be a separate math center, writing center, or general study skills center.<\/li>\n<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Computer lab.<\/strong> Before almost all students became skilled in computer use and had their own computers, colleges built labs where students could use campus computers and receive training or help resolving technical problems. Many campuses still maintain computer centers to assist students with technical issues.<\/li>\n<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Student health clinic.<\/strong> In addition to providing some basic medical care and making referrals, most college student health centers also help with issues such as diet and exercise counseling, birth control services, and preventive health care.<\/li>\n<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Career and Life Planning Center.<\/strong> This center can help you find a student job or internship, plan for your career after graduation, and receive career counseling.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul id=\"lochhaas-ch01_s04_s06_l02\" class=\"im_itemizedlist im_editable im_block\">\n<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Disability Support Services Office.<\/strong> This office may provide various services to help students with disabilities adapt within the college environment.<\/li>\n<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Office of student affairs or student organizations.<\/strong> Participating in a group of like-minded students often supports academic success.<\/li>\n<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Other specialized offices for student populations.<\/strong> These may include an office supporting students who speak English as a second language, adult students returning to college, international students, religious students, students with children (possibly a child-care center), veterans of the armed services, students preparing for certain types of careers, and so on.<\/li>\n<li><strong class=\"im_emphasis im_bold\">Your instructors.<\/strong> It never hurts to ask a friendly instructor if he or she knows of any additional college resources you haven\u2019t yet discovered. There may be a brand new program on campus, or a certain department may offer a service not widely promoted through the college Web site.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Everyone needs help at some time\u2014you should never feel embarrassed or ashamed to seek help. Remember that a part of your tuition and fees are going to these offices, and you have every right to take advantage of them.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div id=\"post-355\" class=\"post-355 chapter type-chapter status-publish hentry type-1\">\n<div class=\"entry-content\">\n<div class=\"im_section\">\n<div class=\"im_section\">\n<div id=\"mclean-ch03_s01_s02_n01\" class=\"im_key_takeaways im_editable im_block\">\n<div class=\"bcc-box bcc-success\">\n<h3>KEY TAKEAWAYs<\/h3>\n<section>\n<div>\n<ul>\n<li>Even in large lecture classes, attendance is important, along with forming a good impression and paying attention.<\/li>\n<li>Study the college catalog and talk with your advisor to ensure you understand the role of core classes, electives, and major courses in your program or degree requirements.<\/li>\n<li>Online courses offer another option in many colleges but require a certain preparedness and a heightened sense of responsibility.<\/li>\n<li>To avoid inadvertently finding yourself in trouble, know your college\u2019s policies for academic issues and campus behavior.<\/li>\n<li>Taking advantage of the many resources your college offers to help you with a wide range of academic and personal matters is essential for success in college.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"bcc-box bcc-info\">\n<h3>EXERCISES<\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li>For each of the following statements, circle T for true or F for false:\n<ol>\n<li>\n<table cellpadding=\"0\" style=\"border-spacing: 0px;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>T<\/td>\n<td>F<\/td>\n<td>If your instructor in a large lecture class is boring, there\u2019s nothing you can do except to try to stay awake and hope you never have him or her for another class.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>T<\/td>\n<td>F<\/td>\n<td>In a large lecture hall, if you sit near the back and pretend to listen, you can write e-mails or send text messages without your instructor noticing.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li>List three things a college student should be good at in order to succeed in an online course.<\/li>\n<li>Use your imagination and describe three different actions that would violate of your college\u2019s academic honesty policy.<\/li>\n<li>Where on campus would you first go for help choosing your courses for next term? For help with your math class?For a problem coping with a lot of stress? To learn about your options for student loans? To find a better apartment?<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t <section class=\"citations-section\" role=\"contentinfo\">\n\t\t\t <h3>Candela Citations<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t <div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t <div id=\"citation-list-52\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t <div class=\"licensing\"><div class=\"license-attribution-dropdown-subheading\">CC licensed content, Shared previously<\/div><ul class=\"citation-list\"><li>Success in College. <strong>Authored by<\/strong>: anonymous. <strong>Located at<\/strong>: <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/2012books.lardbucket.org\/\">http:\/\/2012books.lardbucket.org\/<\/a>. <strong>License<\/strong>: <em><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"license\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/4.0\/\">CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike<\/a><\/em><\/li><li>P5110020. <strong>Authored by<\/strong>: shannontanski. <strong>Provided by<\/strong>: morgueFile. <strong>Located at<\/strong>: <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.morguefile.com\/archive\/display\/789316\">http:\/\/www.morguefile.com\/archive\/display\/789316<\/a>. <strong>License<\/strong>: <em><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"license\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/4.0\/\">CC BY: Attribution<\/a><\/em><\/li><li>Success in College. <strong>Authored by<\/strong>: anonymous. <strong>Located at<\/strong>: <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/2012books.lardbucket.org\/\">http:\/\/2012books.lardbucket.org\/<\/a>. <strong>License<\/strong>: <em><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"license\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/4.0\/\">CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike<\/a><\/em><\/li><li>Image of textbooks. <strong>Authored by<\/strong>: Logan Ingalls. <strong>Located at<\/strong>: <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/cStoi\">https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/cStoi<\/a>. <strong>License<\/strong>: <em><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"license\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/4.0\/\">CC BY: Attribution<\/a><\/em><\/li><li>Image of students in lecture hall. <strong>Authored by<\/strong>: Jirka Matousek. <strong>Located at<\/strong>: <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/dQXYGc\">https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/dQXYGc<\/a>. <strong>License<\/strong>: <em><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"license\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/4.0\/\">CC BY: Attribution<\/a><\/em><\/li><li>Image of brochures. <strong>Authored by<\/strong>: Brian Talbot. <strong>Located at<\/strong>: <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/hb4jC\">https:\/\/flic.kr\/p\/hb4jC<\/a>. <strong>License<\/strong>: <em><a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"license\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc\/4.0\/\">CC BY-NC: Attribution-NonCommercial<\/a><\/em><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t <\/div>\n\t\t\t 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