Step one: A steady study schedule.

This is probably the hardest step, so let's just get it out of the way. No matter how smart you were in high school or how long you have managed to make up long essay answers on the spot, at some point in your academic career, you will need to start studying the material.

Professors expect adult attitudes and responsibilities from their students, and that includes setting aside time outside of class to study. Even if its just glancing through your notes as you eat lunch between classes, looking over your material outside of the classroom a few times a week helps you remember your notes better when it comes down to test time.

You don't have to study for every class every day, but acknowledging which classes will require more outside attention from yourself and study accordingly can be the difference between passing and failing that bio lecture you have been stressing about.

Step Two: Study buddies.

Study groups are useful for so many reasons! There's power in numbers, and saving your GPA every semester is definitely a numbers game. Pooling your resources and intelligence, and not to mention your coffee, with a friend or two from your classes is a great way to not only make sure you're studying, but also to have someone there who may be able to answer your questions.

Step Three: Use your resources! ​

Speaking of someone with the answers to your questions, a sure way to help your GPA is to ask your professor questions! Sure, she may not give you any test answers, but she would be able to further explain any confusing concepts from class. Another great resource is your university library and tutoring programs!

Libraries are tragically under-used by many college students, but sometimes all it takes to really make the most of a study session is to have it in the right environment. Tutoring programs are way less embarrassing than they may sound. Besides, nothing is more satisfying than acing a difficult class, and tutoring is an awesome resource to help you achieve that!