Letter to a Student: Confessions of a Nerdy Free-Spirit.

I took an unusually demanding college class. I spent every available moment working on the class, bleeding myself into it. I felt guilty and panicky if I took too much “unnecessary” time away from it (eating and showering were allowed as necessities, but just barely). I was committed to doing well in that class, sometimes to the neglect of family and social time. I have a strong inner drive not only to do the work, but to do it in exemplary fashion. What a concept. You see, it isn’t merely a hyper-nerdy tendency in me that compels me to spend such energy on important projects. It is also because I learn best by working through the process. When I’m switched on, it’s go time. I’m not a machine – I did break down (once or twice) and exhibit characteristics of a typical American college student (and suffered the grades of one). But in the long run it is time, attention, and serious study that yield good grades and success. Your professors will notice. Ask them for help if you need it. Talk to them after class to clarify a point, confirm deadline dates or assignment details. Take the extra steps and learn discipline. It pays. Promise.