Now that Christine is a college senior and getting ready to graduate with a degree in chemistry, she has a different outlook on college that she did when she was a freshman. If she could do it over, she would take fun classes as well as those that are challenging. She suggests not speeding through a degree. In fact, she recommends that students take an extra semester (even a summer semester) to help relieve some of the stress and have time to explore courses that interest them outside of their majors. Concentrate on learning and understanding, she says.

Christine suggests finding a research opportunity with a professor, if possible. If nothing else, it would be a great reference possibility. Students should get to know as many of their professors as possible, and make a point of speaking with them outside of class.

People shouldn't obsess about their grades, says Christine. As important as they are (especially if graduate school is part of your plan), life will go on without a 4.0. Christine advises to avoid over-studying for a single exam. Evaluate whether you feel the few extra points earned by adding that hour to your study time are worth your time. Time is important in college, and you should make a point of balancing academics with your personal life. If you worry too much about grades, you may miss out on other valuable experiences. It's not that difficult to get good grades, says Christine, and if you keep up with the material in class, your grades will reflect that and be okay. So, be open to meeting as many people as possible. Talk to people who are in positions to which you aspire. Ask them how important grades are in relationship to other experiences that also demonstrate achievement.