<p>It’s absolutely critical that a student regularly check their email. It’s how the university (professors, TAs, College and University personnel) communicate with the student. It’s one of those critical things that is absolutely necessary in order to succeed in college, and it’s often neglected by incoming freshman because in high school, in most cases, it was secondary at best.</p>
<p>The other issue is the speed at which the material is presented. Usually at about double the rate of HS. The adjustment is tough for some, and one of the main reasons why a light load that first Fall is usually a good idea. That presentation speed also warrants the use of different study methods. In HS, a good student can master the material on his own much more so than in college where they definitely should take advantage of office hours and study groups, if they feel they are failing to grasp the material adequately.</p>