Succeeding in College

Students enjoy end-of-the-semester activities at the Silverman Library as part of the UB Libraries' Stress Relief Days in December 2019. The offerings included therapy dogs, ping pong, and aromatherapy bracelets.

Achieve Success—Your Way—With Support from UB

Wherever you are in your academic career, success is possible! As you develop your own definition of success, use this information to guide your journey.

Success in college occurs in three interconnected areas: achievement, engagement and persistence.

Achievement is developing a plan and acquiring skills. Engagement is getting involved and making connections on campus and in your community. Persistence is continuing on your journey and preparing for what comes next. 

You will build a strong foundation for success as you gain experience in these areas. As you develop skills to succeed in college, you’ll also be preparing for life after college. When you reach your destination—graduation day—you’ll be ready with the skills needed to create lasting success wherever your path takes you.

Helpful Resources

Building an Academic Plan and Staying on Track

Developing and following an academic plan is key to staying on track. Your academic plan will allow you to map out short- and long-term actions to meet your goals. And these skills will last a lifetime—learning to set goals and then evaluating the outcome is a skill you will use again and again. 

Your advisor will help you develop an academic plan that’s right for you. While every student will have their own plan, keep the following in mind. This information applies to everyone!

  • Students need to complete 15 credit hours every semester (both fall and spring) for a total of 30 credit hours for the academic year. 
  • Students need to be making progress toward a degree and be accepted into a major by the time they have 60 credits completed.
  • Students need to complete 30/60/90/120 cumulative credits at the end of each year to graduate in four years.
  • Academic progress impacts financial aid eligibility. Taking Degree Applicable Credits (DAC) is necessary to obtain a degree in a designated plan of study.
  • Taking classes during winter and summer sessions can be a good strategy to catch up or stay ahead.

Maintaining Progress and Academic Good Standing

UB regularly reviews undergraduate students’ grades to maintain academic standards and determine eligibility for continued enrollment, financial aid and participation in university activities. 

Students who experience academic difficulty transitioning to college may be advised to take LAI 203: Academic Success Strategies. The course assists students in developing and/or strengthening behaviors, skills and strategies to confidently move toward academic success and goal attainment. LAI 203 is typically offered in the spring. Sections vary depending on students’ majors. For more information, contact Tutoring and Academic Support Services.

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