Chances are, no matter what university you attend, final grades are in. For some of us, those grades were exactly what we hoped for. And others, well, you're hoping next semester is better. Here are a few ways you can make the spring semester your best semester yet.
1. Don't repeat the same mistakes.
Now that you're looking back, going out the night before the final wasn't such a good idea. Look back on last semester to see what mistakes you made that could've impacted your grade. Did you wait until the last minute to study? Did you procrastinate on your essay and produce subpar work? For next semester, don't make the same mistakes.
2. Go to office hours.
Office hours are your friend! Often in the classroom, professors seem intimidating. However, if you go to office hours, even the scariest professors turn into nice guys when you visit. By taking your time to go, it shows them that you are willing to reach out for help with the material on your own time instead of struggling. In that one on one setting, you can get the personal help that could greatly impact your grade.
3. Learn how to study.
Everyone knows that cramming is ineffective, yet we still do it anyway. Next semester, learn how to study a little bit every class period to build up your understanding of the material. When you are first notified of the test, review your notes for clarity before studying. These simple tips can be the key to getting an A on your first test.
4. Learn how to say "no".
Free passes to Limelight (a club in my college town) might be tempting, but learn how to say no. There's always a time and a place to have fun, but the night when you have 3 essays and 2 quizzes due isn't one of them. If they're your real friends, they will understand and admire your dedication.
5. Pay attention in class.
Especially with classrooms shifting to be more technology focused, avoid getting distracted by a new episode of Riverdale in class. Professors often focus their lectures on material that will be covered on the next exam, and even if it isn't, that information is crucial to your overall understanding of the course. Avoid falling asleep or taking social media breaks to get all you can out of the class, after all, you are paying for it.
6. Show up.
While we're on the topic of paying for school, show up to class! By not going to class you are throwing your tuition dollars out of the window. Avoid asking the awkward kid who sits next to you for notes by simply showing up to class next semester. It makes a big difference in your grade!
7. Have confidence.
Lastly, have confidence. Have hope that next semester will be a good year by speaking it into existence. If you believe you can succeed, you will.
