No matter what health care career path you’re pursuing, having good habits will guide your success as a student. Do you want to be a medical assistant? How about a veterinary technician? No matter what career path you choose, you need to develop good habits as a student. Those habits can also pay off in the real world! They’ll help you build confidence and a work ethic that will make you successful students and professionals that employers would be lucky to hire. At Carrington College, we know teaching good habits is a big part of the success of our students. If this is your first time thinking about college or you’re heading back to the classroom, good habits will help make sure you reach your goals.
Class participation
As a college student, you’ll spend a huge chunk of your time in the classroom. Paying attention and participating in class is one of the best ways to make sure you absorb what you’re learning. If you’re struggling, focus on being more involved in class activities and discussions. Work with your classmates and try to zero in on the project in front of you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, it’ll show you’re paying attention and help you clarify something that might be confusing.
Instructor interaction
Don’t forget, you’re the reason your professors are there! Their job is to help you learn what you need for your certificate or degree and your future career. They want to see you succeed, so take advantage of that! 
You know you’ll see your professors during class, but meeting with them before and after is even better. Show them you’re dedicated to learning and that they should invest the time to help you succeed. Your professors could be a good resource for a letter of recommendation or a reference when you start looking for your first job, so it’s important to make sure you’re building relationships with them.
Study daily
Study, study, study! The more time you spend reviewing your notes or practicing skills, the better you’ll know your stuff. You might have gotten by just studying for tests in high school, but that won’t fly here. The tests in college are harder and the things you’re learning are important for your career. Your best bet is to block off an hour or two each day for studying. That way you’re really prepared for test time and for the real world.
Do your homework
Writing reports and giving presentations in college is a BIG deal. 
You might need to do a ton of research… and not just the night before your project is due. If you need help figuring out where to start or finding what you need, talk to a instructor or librarian.
Show up every day on time
Treat college like a job, not showing up isn’t an option. It doesn’t matter what you’re doing in class that day, you need to be there. Your professor will remember when you skip class. Not only can that impact your grade, it’ll also change your professor’s opinion of you. 
