4 out of 4 stars
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"Succeeding in college is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Preparation is one key. Persistence is the other. Learn how to accomplish both and do it well for outstanding career success."
In A Professor's Guide to College Success, Boyd K. Smith, Ph.D. expounds on the cost of college as a business investment rather than a costly expense. To maximize opportunities for success, he stresses investing wisely by doing one's homework and asking the right questions about college. Smith suggests that many students are not prepared for the responsibility of being on their own. He considers this the first college career challenge, which has the potential to directly affect future levels of success. He instructs readers on how to utilize tools such as mind mapping, resume building, effective study habits, SWOT analysis, and community college options to build an academic toolbox. He encourages students to be aware of the negative distractions that can detract from their goals, including over-socializing, sports, and social media. The book includes opportunities for college scholarships and numerous hyperlinks for additional research on specific topics. However, Smith recommends first reading the content cover to cover before revisiting points of interest.
This 105-page book is organized, professionally edited, and packed with practical advice. I helped my three kids prepare for college, and I would have loved to have had such a definitive guide at my fingertips. For example, in Chapter 8, Smith addresses starting college resume preparation as early as middle school, but he also begins the book with questions that invite students who may not be ready to delay college or consider vocational training. Smith is in favor of attending college and getting the best education possible, but he recognizes the pitfalls and added expense of beginning college without adequate direction.
I particularly like the comprehensiveness of this resourceful guide. From encouraging students to question their college preparedness to the importance of extracurricular activities and what it really costs to attend college, Smith seems to have addressed everything. Additionally, he encourages readers, who may have special challenges not covered in the book, to visit his website.
There isn't anything I dislike about the book. Although I did note some repetition of content, overall, it doesn't detract from the book. In fact, I would love to see mandatory high school curriculum that addresses the relevant issues the author tackles. I'm pleased to rate the book 4 out of 4 stars. I recommend it to students preparing for college, both those straight from high school and those attending later in life, as well as educators and parents.
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A Professors' Guide to College Success:
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Yes, you'll appreciate the author's research and the many website links he includes.
