You are about to make a huge investment in yourself. Make it a good one. Most of your time and energies will be used toward your learning. Watch out for the distractions like socializing till the wee hours of the morning. Put all that energy into positives, like studying, going to classes and challenging yourself.

Step 2. Consider Your Goals

Ask yourself, "What do I want from a college education?" Visualize yourself walking across the stage to accept your bachelor's degree. Envision who you have become and what skills you possess. What positive changes do you see in yourself?

Think about how fortunate you are to be going to college. It's an opportunity not everyone gets or takes. You've worked hard to get to where you are today and at some point, you have to decide how much you want a college degree and if you're ready to work harder than ever before to get it.

Take time to consider what kind of a student you will be. How will you go to college here? What strategies will you employ? For example, you might want to do a daily plan of "attack" to complete tasks. The key is to keep yourself focused and be very deliberate in planning your time.

Life long learning is a necessity in our knowledge packed, complex and fast paced world. Don't get left behind!

Step 3. Turn Your Talents Into Strengths!

You know you have talents. We will help you identify those talents and ways to capitalize on them by getting involved in "extra-curricular" activities and many other ways. Choose activities which are challenging and meaningful to you and will serve a purpose towards your career aspirations. There are hundreds of opportunities in college for you to get involved with. You can enhance and develop your talents into strengths.

Leadership opportunities exist in professional "career" clubs, volunteer work, research, student government and on-campus employment. You can add value to your college education by getting actively involved in these opportunities.

Step 4. Use Your Professors as Mentors

Professors aren't just for teaching in the classroom! They can be your mentors and help you use your talents and strengths in ways that will have a positive impact on what experiences you bring to potential employers or to a university for advanced studies. Professors have a world of knowledge and extensive experience in specific areas of their disciplines. They can assist you in finding a direction or a "passion" for your life's work. Get to know several of your professors on a one-on-one basis.

Step 5. Know Your Support System

Did you know that here at A&M-CC there is a whole bunch of people who want to help you succeed? Yup! There are advisors, counselors, administrators, teachers, resident advisors and, well, just about everybody you meet on campus wants to see you succeed.Your support system at A&M-CC is just like your family!