Most critical skill for thriving in college?

Hello everyone, junior here, freaking out about college just a little (well, a lot). I'm trying to get a good grasp on whate part of preparations I should focus. So, to anyone who has been through it, what is the most essential skill that you found crucial for survival in college?

Speaking from a supportive angle, managing your time well is paramount to successfully navigating college life. Unlike high school, where your schedule is mostly structured for you, college allows much more freedom and flexibility, meaning you could potentially have large gaps in your day between classes or varied schedules every day. This autonomy can be both a blessing and a curse.

For example, you might have an assignment due in two weeks and put it off, thinking you have plenty of time. However, if you haven't effectively managed your time, that due date could creep up on you while you're busy dealing with other assignments or extracurriculars, leading to a last-minute rush to complete it.

To combat this, developing good study habits early on is key. This might involve setting specific study times during the day, breaking large projects up into manageable chunks, or making a daily to-do list. Apps can be of great help too - whether it's a simple calendar app to keep track of your commitments or more sophisticated project management tools.

Remember, it's not just about surviving but thriving in college. Following such effective time-management strategies can make your college life less stressful and more enjoyable. Ultimately, college is not just about academics, but also about developing life skills, and effective time management is an invaluable skill that will serve you well beyond graduation.