The Keys To First-Year Success

Academic Issues to Consider:

• The pace of the academic term at the College will be much quicker than in high school. Students are in class less often, and instructors have less time to ensure that students are keeping up with their work. As a result, it is essential that students maintain, revise, or develop effective time-management and study skills.
• Parents can help by encouraging students to use their Academic Student Handbook and by discussing ways to be better organized. Parents also can discuss ways for students to manage time efficiently at work and with other responsibilities.
• Learning to think critically is crucial to success in college and to life in general but is not something with which most first-quarter students have much experience. Many of the courses students take at The Art Institute of Dallas will place a great deal of emphasis on critical thinking. In many situations, students will find that there is not a “right answer.” Often instructors will want students to focus on understanding the significance of an issue rather than coming up with a “correct answer.”
• Because critical thinking is a process that requires students to go beyond factual answers and opinions, parents can help by engaging students in a conversation about the significance of their studies.
• Students need to take responsibility for their education. A college education is a tremendous opportunity, and it can prepare students to succeed professionally and personally. Students, however, must take full advantage of this opportunity by assuming ownership of their education. We strongly encourage students to explore areas of academic interest and to take courses in subjects they find interesting. Because there is no magical formula for academic or professional success, the main objective of any degree is to help students obtain a well-rounded education that will provide them with the tools they need to succeed. Students need to seize this opportunity and make the most of their education.
• Parents can help by encouraging students to pursue their own academic interests while simultaneously acquiring skills (e.g., critical thinking, problem solving, analytical skills, oral and written communication skills, etc.) that will ensure success after graduation. Parents also can help by asking students what they are learning, why they enjoy what they are learning, and what skills they are developing. It also might be helpful for you to talk with them about your own educational and career experiences.
• Parents can help by encouraging students to utilize their instructors’ office hours, ask questions in class, and visit the Academic Improvement Center. Parents might want to share their own strategies for being successful in life.
• Most first-quarter students will experience some homesickness. This is understandable and normal given the tremendous transition that students face at the College.
• Parents can help by staying in regular contact with students. If your son or daughter has questions or concerns, you might encourage him or her to speak with an academic advisor or with a residence-hall advisor. It is important that parents reassure students that homesickness is fairly typical and usually diminishes as the academic term progresses. Open communication during this difficult time is very important.