How to Set Yourself Up for Success as a College Student

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Starting college is exciting—it’s a time to dream bigger, explore new opportunities, and challenge yourself in ways you’ve never imagined. But let’s be real: success in college doesn’t just happen overnight. It takes planning, self-awareness, and the right support system. At UW-Green Bay, we believe success strategies for students should go beyond just the classroom—they should set you up for life.

Whether you’re about to start college or already are a college student, here are some tried-and-true strategies for university success (and the resources we offer to help you rise).

1. Master Time Management

One of the most important success strategies for students is learning how to balance it all—classes, homework, jobs, friends, and maybe even athletics or student organizations. Using a planner or digital calendar to block out study time, breaks, and social activities keeps you on track without burning out.

2. Prioritize Work-Life Balance

One of the most important success strategies for students is learning how to balance it all—classes, homework, jobs, friends, and maybe even athletics or student organizations. Using a planner or digital calendar to block out study time, breaks, and social activities keeps you on track without burning out.

Try work-life balance activities for students like:

  • Taking a walk through the Cofrin Memorial Arboretum trails
  • Hitting the Kress Events Center for a workout or yoga class
  • Joining one of UW-Green Bay’s 130+ student organizations
  • Scheduling downtime for hobbies or hanging out with friends

Your brain and body need rest to recharge, and balance ensures you can bring your best self to every challenge.

3. Build Connections and Get Involved

Another key strategy for university success is getting connected—because success isn’t a solo act. When you build relationships with professors, advisors, and peers, you create a support network that can open doors to internships, research opportunities, and lifelong friendships.

4. Use Campus Resources

Sometimes the smartest strategy is knowing when to ask for help. UW-Green Bay offers resources designed to help you succeed, including:

  • The Learning Center for tutoring and academic support
  • Career Planning to guide you toward internships and future jobs
  • Counseling & Health Services for mental and physical wellness
  • Library and tech support to fuel your studies

You don’t have to figure everything out on your own—that’s why these tools exist.

The Takeaway

College is what you make it. Make the choice to ignite your future! By mastering time management, prioritizing balance, building connections, and using your resources, you’ll set yourself up not only for college success but for life beyond campus. You’ll never go it alone. UW-Green Bay Admissions Counselors are here to help answer any pre-college questions you have, just reach out!