International students generally enjoy academic success within the university. Understanding how the system works enables international students to better organize their studies. Some suggestions:

• Do not overload your schedule. Select courses wisely. Discuss courses with your advisor in terms of which ones are most demanding. Students usually arrange their study load during one term by balancing more demanding courses with others that require less work.
• Do not wait to get help. If you do not understand something, waiting will often make it worse. You can speak to another classmate to try to get clarification or ask the professor before or after class if there is time for your question at that moment or if you can meet with the professor during another time.
• When you prepare for class, think of questions or comments you might want to make during the discussion period. This is especially important if you are not used to participating in class, which is seen in this culture as part of the learning experience and counts towards a student's grade.
• If you are assigned a group project, it is important that you help in both the research and presentation of the project.
• If you have a term project or paper, start working on it as soon as it is assigned. Set aside a certain number of hours weekly to ensure that you get it completed.
• Evaluate your expectations. Keep in mind that it may take time to perform to the best of your ability.
• Get to know faculty and do not be afraid to ask questions. Faculty members are there to give you guidance.
• Learn about the informal rules by getting to know other students. Their experiences are valuable in helping you to learn about study methods and how your department works.

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