Have you ever stepped into a class, and almost had a panic attack just after the first day? Well, I have. Here are 7 ways you can make sure you pass the class you think you can't.
1. Read The Syllabus and Create a Timeline
One way to make sure you stay on top of things is to read the syllabus and then create a schedule for the major assignments. Plan out when you will begin and finish each one. It is also a good idea to plan to have someone to look over each assignment (perhaps your professor or a TA) so you can correct any mistakes you might have missed.
2. Take Good Notes
This may seem pretty obvious, but I am personally the queen of getting distracted. If you really focus on taking detailed and organized notes, you can force yourself to pay more attention to what is being taught during the class. And when it is time study, you have an easy template to create a study guide from.
3. Study...After Every Class
Okay, I know this sounds like a bit too much but one of my best friends swears by it. At the end of the day, look over the notes you took. Make sure you really understand the material that was covered in class. And if you realize you don't, you can get help to learn it ahead of time and avoid trying to learn weeks of material the night before your midterm.
4. Go to Your Professor's Office Hours
When you have questions, go to your professor's office hours! Some professors are even free to set up meetings when they aren't scheduled for office hours, you just have to reach out to them. And even if you don't have questions, make some up. Professors like to see students working hard and trying, and if you can form a relationship with them when you are trying to get recommendations for jobs done you will know exactly who to ask!
5. Get Some Numbers
You know the kid you sit next to every class? Ask for his/her number! And then get the contact information for a few other people in your class. This is another way you can get questions answered if you don't make it to office hours. When you are having trouble on homework or are unclear about something it could come in handy. Also creating a study group could be helpful.
6. Participate
Try to participate in class! When you do this, you are engaging yourself in class and making your brain work through the material. It could also raise your grade depending on your professor's rubric.
7. Extra Credit
Lasty, take advantage of and seek as many extra credit opportunities as possible. Extra credit in combination with your hard work in the class will ensure you a passing grade.
