Now that one of our semesters has passed by us, most of us have probably learned a thing or two. Something we want to change, something we want to start doing, maybe a chance we want to take. Whatever it may be, some of us are still lost and unsure with how to cope with the L’s of 2016. Some of us want to change for the better, but do not know where to start. I surveyed several of my past professors and asked them to share a few suggestions for college students on ways to improve in the upcoming year. Below is the list of resolutions I have compiled from the professors that were surveyed and what the majority of them mentioned within the surveys. Hopefully this will spark an idea on how to make 2017 your year. Good luck, and Happy New Year!

1. Go to all of your classes, no matter what.

Missing work and falling behind impacts your grades tremendously. Showing up every day ensures that your professor knows you are trying to make an effort in his or her class.

2. Introduce yourself to your professors.

Yes, handing your work in on time and participating in class is great, but when a professor can put both a face and a personality to your name, your grade is more likely to be higher. The average Joe sitting next to you that was an A student but never once recognized that the professor is just as human probably brought diminished the professor's desire to bump the grade up to an A+.

“We aren’t educating robots that are out to destroy students, we are people too so treat us like it, please.”

3. Stop texting during class.

Oddly enough, this was the most frequent resolution suggestion that I received. Professors do not like the disruption of cell phones.

“In class, put it away. Out of class, you can glue it to your face if you want to.”

“Students these days are constantly on their phones and even if they look like they aren’t on them, they are.”

“It is terribly disruptive to those that are actually in the class to learn.”

4. Do not be afraid to ask questions.

Professors do not expect you to know it all, “...and despite what some may think, we are there to help.” Questions allow one to gain valuable information that they need to succeed. Don’t let your quiet ways influence your level of education. Odds are, the person next to you is wondering the same question you are. Be the one to speak up and ask questions when needed. “We are unclear with expectations sometimes and questions help clear those expectations up.”

5. Don’t push yourself too hard.

Pushing yourself too hard could result in an ultimate set back because of the stress you are causing yourself. Take on little by little, do not just jump into the pool without dipping your toes in the water first. Stress has a severe impact on one’s performance if it gets really bad, which is why taking things step by step is beneficial.