Successful goal-setting tips for college students

I heard from a student that was in one of my communication
classes many years ago. I was excited to hear that this student, who was goal-oriented and determined achieved his education dream. He completed his bachelor's degree and moved on to complete a master's and doctoral degree. The success in today's college students can be seen by looking
at more than dreams and aspirations, but the goals that they set for themselves. The failure to persist in college is partially due to a lack of goal-setting habits.
Review your goals at the beginning of each semester. College students should take advantage of the opportunity to review their goals at the beginning of each new semester. Students should review both short and long-term goals. A student may have a short-term goal to increase their grades they receive in their classes. A long- term goal might be to review progress toward the completion of an associates or bachelor's degree.
Write down your goals. Those familiar with goal-setting recognize that a goal not written is only a wish. Our minds are constantly forgetting information.
Make a list of your daily goals. Many students make a daily
list of things they need to accomplish by the end of the day.
Unfortunately, we tend to gravitate to the items on the "to do" list that are easiest to accomplish. You can't say 'yes' to the important goals until you say 'no' to the unimportant ones. I remember a student who listed two items on his "to do" list, eating lunch and also completing a persuasive speech assignment. It is not surprising that the student made sure he was fed first.
Goal-setting also includes managing your time. As you set a goal, think about how long it will take to complete it. Short-term goals can be made weekly or biweekly while long-term goals might focus on projects and activities that make take a year or more to complete. Successful goals setters are aware of tried and tested strategies. As you work on your goals keep in mind the following strategies:
*Prioritize your goals based on your current course schedule.

*Make sure your goals include important time set aside for tutoring or group work

*Don't forget to write down your goals

*Remember PMA- have a positive mental attitude toward your goals and your ability to complete then.

*Avoid general or ambiguous goals. Be specific with what you want to accomplish.

*Visibility is important in the goal setting process. Don't hide
your goals in your dresser drawer. The best place to put your goals is where you can see them-the best place for many students is on the refrigerator.

Earl Nightingale, a famous radio personality in the 20th century said: "Goal-setting is the most powerful force on earth to a serious minded person. It will bring us whatever we set our hearts upon... When we set serious and meaningful goals, we start in motion powers greater than we might at first imagine."

Reed Markham, Associate Professor School of World Languages and Speech Daytona State College