College Smarts: The Survival and Success Guide for Canadian Students

K. Lynn Taylor is coordinator of the Instructional Development Program
in the Centre for Higher Education, University of Manitoba.

College Smarts takes a comprehensive approach to optimizing the
postsecondary education experience. It begins with raising the
reader’s awareness of his or her own interests and abilities, and of
the range of career opportunities available. Although there is an
analysis of all the postsecondary options available in Canada, most of
the strategies described in the book are illustrated in a university
context. In addition to providing detailed guidance on choosing and
financing a postsecondary education, the authors outline strategies to
help students make a smooth transition to postsecondary studies,
including time management, note-taking, academic reading, exam
strategies, and conflict management. Both conventional and Internet
addresses are provided for those seeking further information.

While all readers will benefit from the authors’ frank analysis of
the pros and cons of different kinds of postsecondary institutions, and
from their practical advice on how to survive in a university
environment, the book will be of greatest benefit to those still in the
process of evaluating their postsecondary options. The text is
straightforward and the design user-friendly, with an abundance of
“real life” cases and tables and charts. Although directed at
prospective students, College Smarts is an excellent resource for
Canadian parents, teachers, and counselors as well.