Characteristics of a Good College Student (Essay Sample)

Characteristics of a Good College Student
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Characteristics of a good college student
There has been widespread research on identification of the personality traits that can be crucial in attaining success. On a narrower level, many scholars have conducted extensive studies in the hope of pinpointing those particular characteristics that can increase the probability of guaranteeing success in college life.
One study that was published in the Perspectives on Psychological Science found that the main determinant of a good college student is intellectual curiosity. According to that research, it is crucial for students who want to succeed to keep the ‘intellectual fire burning’ or in other words, stay interested in their studies (Swaminathan, 2014). This is possible if the student does not overburden himself or herself with work. Therefore, there should be proper time management and regular periods of study, rather than cramming on the last few days before the exams.
Another study found that mindsets are a crucial trait that can help enable a student towards success or what could be termed as a good characteristic for success. According to Dweck, those students who believe that intelligence and IQ tests are inadequate, and it is sheer hard work, perseverance and application to the task that will ensure success, exhibit what she has termed as “the growth mindset of intelligence (Dweck, 2012).”
While the aforementioned factors of intellectual curiosity and mindset shifts can be termed as definitive of a good college student, they are not exhaustive. There are many other factors that can help a student in college life. One such factor is having clear life goals, and to follow the path religiously in order to attain those goals. Without goals and ambition, a student will almost always treat academics with a casual attitude and pursue other extracurricular interests.
Finally, while academic life and studies are all important towards any success, it needs to be understood that everyone has ...