The Essence of College Success

The following summarizes what students perceived led to college success. A successful college student was someone who excelled academically by achieving a high GPA (i.e., 3.0–4.0). They had a driving force within that made them determined and motivated to work hard. The students’ desire for knowledge encouraged them to show up for class and be passionate about schoolwork.

One of the non-cognitive variables important to college success involved a love for learning. This was demonstrated by rarely missing a class, enjoying what you do, having the will to do better, developing a good work ethic, and establishing a firm commitment to class work. Time management or an ability to prioritize responsibilities was equally important.

A successful student does not need to have a high intelligence quotient to do well. Many college students were told at one time or another they were ‘‘not smart enough’’ to make it through college. The person most responsible for student success was the student; next was a professor/teacher. Parents and spouses were the third most influential group.

Determination was a powerful characteristic of college success. A determined person was someone who would not be deterred by obstacles and would not take no for an answer. Goal achievement constituted a determined person, as did self-sacrifice, thinking outside the box, and an ability to turn negatives into positives.

Finally, students added time management skills, emotional/ financial support from family, and encouraging professors were all elements contributing to college success.