By Mirgena Demneri<\/p>\n
\u201cThe greatest battles are won before they begin\u201d \u2013 the notorious war strategist Napoleon Bonaparte once said. No statement could be truer when it comes to successfully finishing college.
\nFor most, graduation is a constant battle, from financial equations to family problems, time constraints and work stress.<\/p>\n
But there are 950 students attending Daytona State College who are taking professional advice to overcome any obstacle on their way to success. Charlene Latimer, Senior Professor and Chair of the School of Student Life Skills, is teaming up with six other teachers to share with students their knowledge on how to choose a successful career, as well as study techniques, how to fight test anxiety, developing memory techniques and time and financial management.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe course is mandatory for the students that need to get more knowledge on reading skills, but we want to encourage the new students as well. We believe when starting at a college you should have a firm goal. Know where you are going,\u201d Latimer emphasizes.<\/p>\n
The three credits earned from each of three courses are transferable and students will be familiar with all services, from the Academic Support Center, which is almost always full of students, to financial aid, advisers, the library, Writing Center, tutoring and online services. Students’ financial situation could be the greatest challenge.<\/p>\n
\u201cI started school to become a nurse two years ago. I just got a job during summer. I am trying hard to keep it, but taking care of my baby boy takes all my time. College has to wait,\u201d said Natalie Castelliono, who is thinking about possibly dropping out.<\/p>\n
Aware that economics are important in continuing education, Latimer said that there will be workshops from the Financial Aid Office to help students better understand and take advantage of the financial support that may be available.<\/p>\n
Not everyone is thinking about the Nov. 2 deadline to withdraw from courses. Other students find it convenient to enroll even before finishing high school.<\/p>\n
“I want to become a pilot so I am dual enrolled and now I am taking meteorology. It is great for me,\u201d said Jenny Brown about the help she got at DSC.<\/p>\n
At a time when advances in technology challenge every decision made for the future, the best choice might be to choose a career you are passionate about and take advantage of all the resources college has to offer.<\/p>\n
The courses included in the Student Life Skills program are Dynamics of Student Success, Critical Thinking, Career Exploration, Dynamics of Student Leadership Development and Human Potential.<\/p>\n
Tips for success from the Student Life Skills School include:<\/p>\n
What not to do:<\/p>\n
By Mirgena Demneri \u201cThe greatest battles are won before they begin\u201d \u2013 the notorious war strategist Napoleon Bonaparte once said. No statement could be truer when it comes to successfully finishing college. For most, graduation is a constant battle, from financial equations to family problems, time constraints and work stress. Continue reading Program gives students keys to success<\/span>