1) Check out the online course offerings!! Gateway is partners with 15 other colleges across the state, all of whom allow cross-enrollment. For students who succeed in self-study, Gateway's course list is limitless. 2) Investigate Learn-on-Demand. Learn on Demand online classes are an alternative to Learn-by-Term. You can enroll and get started at any time during the year, and the classwork is apportioned into manageable chunks that are very easy to work in around hectic schedules. Highly recommended! 3) Do your research on book requirements prior to enrollment. Most classes (particularly online ones) have multiple sections to choose from. Different professors, however, require different books. I have found a difference of as much as $200!! For cost-effectiveness, utilize the KCTCS bookstore to compare book requirements (check prices on Amazon and Barnes and Noble too) before choosing a section.

If you can afford to pay up front, try to rent or purchase books online through Amazon, etc. The Barnes and Noble options are always much more expensive. For example, one of my books costs almost $300 through B and N, but I rented it on Amazon for the duration of my class for $60.

Make sure that disability documentation and special education reports are up to date and obtain a copy for your records. Understand your specific disability and the support you are currently receiving. Before taking the SAT, inquire about special accommodations for testing. Contact the State Bureau of Rehabilitation Services to inquire about eligibility for services. Develop reading, study, time management and organizational skills.

Always make sure you know your student identification number. This is the way you are identified and can be helped with your questions. When preparing for your semester of classes, print out your schedule and your syllabus if available on Blackboard. Be prepared before you go to class. Make sure you know the correct dates and times for your classes. Remember to go to class and be there on time.

Don't try to do too much at once, slow down, take your time and plan to suceed.