Attend all classes, be on time (in the room and ready to go a few minutes before class starts), sit in the front of the classroom (or an area clear of distractions), and participate actively. Do all homework, ask questions, and attend all labs and offered supplemental learning sessions. Remember the basics of being a student. It will provide you with the best foundation for success.
Communicate early and often with your professor if you are having difficulties or do not understand something. Attend office hours, and take the initiative to get to know your professors. It makes it much easier to ask for help when you have an established relationship.
Study to learn the material and relate it to other learning rather than just to pass a test. Making those connections will help as class material often builds upon itself throughout the term.
Use free time blocks during the day to your advantage to get work done. Doing small things add up and can make your evenings more relaxing. You also will be less likely to be overwhelmed by a mountain of work that needs to be done at the last minute.
Learn an effective note-taking strategy. Meet with your professor to show them your notes and ask for feedback/advice.
Learn an active reading strategy. Some students benefit from using audio books to help focus while reading. The College has a subscription to Bookshare that students may request to utilize.
Use a planning calendar (paper phone ap, etc.).
Write in class times, meal times, rehearsals and practices, required programs, etc.
Write in deadlines for each course assignment on the dates they are due.
Working back from the deadline, note a starting time for each phase of the project, i.e., prepare the final draft, write the first draft, go to library to get resources, etc.
Write in regular study times throughout a week (and stick to them).
Make a list of tasks that must be completed on a given day.
Each morning review the appointments, deadlines, and tasks that must be completed that day. Plan the day accordingly.
Utilize helpful campus resources in the Learning Commons which include
Practice regular self-care. Take time to hang out with friends, move your body, engage in a hobby that you enjoy, sleep, and eat regularly. When students take time out to care for themselves, there is a higher likelihood of reduced stress and better academic performance. Reach out to campus resources such as the Counseling Center if you are struggling.
Seek help right away if you begin to struggle. Do not wait until you are completely overwhelmed. If you need help and support and aren’t sure where to go, please contact Dana Jansma (dana.jansma@kzoo.edu), Dean of Students, in the Student Development Office (Hicks) for help.
