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Step 1
Keep quiet at first. Whether you are a Master's student or a Doctoral candidate, it helps to get the lay of the land in a new college. As a result, it is a good idea to keep somewhat to yourself in the beginning as you figure out people's personalities, jealousies and the expectations of a student in your respective program.
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Step 2
Align yourself with smart, fun people who can make the academic experience a pleasant one. Because college is often a politically charged climate, it is helpful to surround yourself only with those whom you trust in order to survive and thrive. However, don't say anything that you don't want to get around.
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Step 3
Do good work. Whether you are taking one college class or several classes, it's always a good idea to make a good impression on professors and fellow students from the beginning. Do all of your reading and other assignments, and speak up in class. If you are a strong presence, you can build a strong reputation.
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Step 4
Get involved at your college as another way to bolster your reputation in the eyes of teachers and peers. If there are honor societies, student organizations, or organizations that cater to academic careers, join them. By helping make your department a success it only makes you look better.
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Step 5
Bite your tongue. There are certainly going to be times when you clash with a classmate, professor or departmental policy. However, it's always best to weather the storm gracefully in order to survive. Once you graduate college and get tenure, then you can rock the boat.
