Wondering how to maximize your college degree? We have put together four tips for creating and sustaining a community that can help you succeed.

As an incoming college freshman, you probably have a lot of preconceived ideas about what college will be like. AP courses, college advising, television, your peers, and the internet probably have given you a good idea of what to expect on your first day of classes. Although all these sources may be a good foundation, here are some common misconceptions about college courses we have debunked.

For many former homeschoolers, the idea of college is simultaneously thrilling and terrifying. As intimidating as it may seem, stepping outside of the comfort zone created by home and family will allow you to grow and flourish in new ways. The path ahead of you may not be clear yet, but it will be filled with unforeseen triumphs and joys that will make that uncertain journey more worthwhile.

As a freshman, you want to do it all: learn new things, meet new people, and expand your horizons. Until now, your daily habits have been largely shaped by your parents and your school. Now, you have the opportunity to try something new.

This note taking series gives students ideas for bringing new vigor to their note-taking game. Article 1 talks about the importance of handwritten notes. Article 2 details notetaking methods—the Cornell Method and Mind Mapping—for more effective note taking. In part three, Tricia expands the notetaking process in the digital realm with suggestions for the best notetaking apps.

This is the fourth in a series of articles designed for new students. If you are an incoming freshman or parent of one, you may want to check out my previous articles on registering for your first semester classes, how to spend your first week on campus, and a particularly good companion to this article, how to embrace failure.

Starting anything new can be an exciting and challenging adventure for anyone. Confidence is the essential tool needed to step into any unknown endeavor courageously. Whether it is a new job, a competition, a presentation, or transitioning from high school to college, confidence is the secret sauce that keeps us focused and able to thrive.

Welcome back to yet another episode of High School 101-just kidding! It's back-to-school season! And most likely, you have survived your first day. If you haven't started yet, good luck! It's time to talk about studying. Ah yes, the dreaded topic of time management and educational efficiency. Just a few simple tips, however, can transform how you approach your classes and improve grades.

This series of articles are intended to provide a roadmap to navigating your college transition and first semester.

This article helps you build your college schedule for your second semester and get you ready for beyond your second semester.