Research the role you have been asked to play. Find out as much as you can about the passions, fears and conflicts of the character. Look into your characters relationship with every other character role playing for the college course.
Practice taking on the role outside of class by yourself or with friends. Invite any others helping you to take on other roles you anticipate interacting with in the class. Take notes regarding the mistakes and successes you had with the character at the end of each practice session.
Study the notes from the original character research and the insights you have gained through practice. Costumes or even small fashion accessories can help trigger the transition into a character mindset. Model postures and facial expressions for the role in a mirror to improve their appearance.
Role play in the college course with confidence and character awareness. Employ costume accessories, if they help you embody the character. Create believable interactions with the other players by responding in the mindset of your role.
Participate actively in the post-role-play discussion. Listen for constructive criticism on how your role was played. Provide honest feedback for the other role players.