Step up your academic game

College is a wonderful thing.

Students from all over the world are able to continue their education past the high-school level, creating more job opportunities for themselves and chances to succeed.

But not every student takes advantage of the endless possibilities that colleges and Universities have to offer.

It's rare that a day goes by without hearing the moans and groans of my classmates who are unhappy with the classwork they have been assigned.

"I can't write a three-page paper," exclaimed a student upon learning he would be required to write a research paper for one of his classes.

I'm not talking about a 10-page or seven-page research paper; no, this student was intimidated by a simple, three-page essay.

What's even worse is that this student was in a journalism course, where writing is the focal point of the curriculum.

When I graduated in 2010, seniors in North Carolina and several other states were required to write 10-page research papers as a graduation requirement.

So it came as no surprise, when I was asked to do the same for a college-level course.

Nonetheless, many students act as if a college essay, project or assignment represents the end of the world.

Students will plagiarize, con and scheme to find the quickest and easiest ways to complete a project rather than focus on learning the material that will lead them to achieve good grades.

In the words of financial advisor Dave Ramsey, "There are no shortcuts when it comes to getting out of debt."

And college debt is a huge load to carry.

So if you want to graduate and get that six-figure salary, an online quiz is the least of your worries.

If you wish to become an entrepreneur, a three-page essay shouldn't be too difficult to write. And if you plan to be the next Essence Magazine editor, completing a midterm project is a piece of cake.

Because when reality hits, and you're preparing to interview for your dream job, there are no excuses to be made.

Going to class is just the first step; it's up to you to get the most out of your college experience.

That's my advice, but who am I to tell you what to do?

I'm just a fly on the wall, minding my own business...