College is not a contest

I've seen some first generation and low income college students approach college like they have to beat everyone at some imaginary contest. I mean crazy things like hiding your roommates notes so she can't study for a class you're taking together or not sharing information with your study group. Anything to give yourself "an edge."

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Um, college is not a contest that you have to conquer by beating everyone else at the game. Yes, it's a challenge, but not against anyone else. Think abut it this way: In no way are you expected to outperform your classmates. You are there for yourself, so as a first generation or low income college student you don't have to best your classmates for your grade.

Your ultimate goal as a student is to learn at your own pace, irrespective of what others are doing. This also means that you should never feel inferior or somehow inadequate if you don't get something the first time around. Even if the grading is on a curve, you can only do your best--and that's all you can do! 

Got questions? Please feel free to ask The Advisor about it.