Details of Template Modules: Using the 10 Things Book

About the book

The book was written specifically for first-year students to help with the transition to college. The goal of the chapters is to provide background and context about these ideas, that will help students understand themselves, and college, and develop the skills and habits they need. This is not a step-by-step book, nor is it prescriptive. The chapters are kept intentionally brief to provide our students with information to get them started- which you can then use in class to help them to build their own plans and understanding of college and their future.

This book is based on more than 10 years of discussion with new college students and their faculty, and the recommendations of graduating students who discussed what they wish they’d know when they first began their higher education journeys.

My hope is that this book provides a starting place for your class discussions and work- and that you bring your own knowledge and experience to your students.

Using the book in class

The book has a chapter on reading and 10 other chapters, each covering one of the things to know about college learning.

Please cover the following chapters:

• Context Matters
• Get to know your new community
• Learning is hard work
• Change is ubiquitous
• Wellness is challenging

Please choose at least 2 additional chapters based on your student’s interests and needs. You may have students read these on their own, present them during a lesson, or use them in an activity. You do not need to cover them the same way you covered the core chapters (method, depth, or activities).

• Slow down
• College is not about your opinion
• Being honest and authentic matters
• Conflict is inevitable
• Success may surprise you