In high school and in college, my friends and classmates have always asked me how I get the grades that I do. Whether it's on papers, projects, or tests, they seem to think that it's magic or that I was born some sort of baby genius. The truth is that it's nothing special. It's not really even a secret. I learned a long time ago that I wanted to succeed in my academics and I found the method that works for me and ever since then, I've followed it to a tee. So for all who are curious, here are my "secrets" to academic success...
It pretty much starts by going to class, and that means everyday. I rarely miss class, and I'm never late. The material that you need to know for exams is usually covered in lectures so it is important to be there and be on time.
However, being there also means BEING THERE. Not just physically, but mentally. Pay attention. Take good notes. Ask questions. Participate. Some professors take attendance, but if you get nothing out of it, there isn't really much point in going.
Secret number three is sleep. I've never been the type to stay up until four in the morning studying. If I don't know it the night before, I'm not going to know it when I'm exhausted or when I'm sleep-deprived, taking the test at 8 a.m. I always try to be in bed my midnight at the absolute latest.
Procrastination was never something I did a lot of either. It's extremely important not to overwhelm yourself with a list of things to get done. Starting and finishing assignments early takes a weight off of your shoulders and gives you a boost of confidence.
As for studying, paying attention in class is the first step. I review all my notes and the professor's PowerPoints if they are available. I do this over and over. I make flashcards and write information down that I feel is the most important. Writing things down is key in helping me remember. I also quiz myself and it doesn't matter the subject. Whether it is on flashcards, practice tests, or Quizlet, I ask myself these questions a million times until I am sure that I could explain them to someone else.
Secret number five: do all the assignments. Missing one ten point assignment here and there can add up and can affect your overall grade at the end of the semester. Doing homework assignments is an important part of your total grade in most classes and is a great study tool.
Most of these aren't really secrets at all. Academic success, like many things in life, is about the effort that you want to put in and the amount of work you are willing to do. I decided a long time ago that I wanted to put in the work, and this is exactly how I do it. It's nothing crazy or unique, it's a lifestyle choice. I'm not a genius and it's not magic. I work my butt off and make it all happen and so can you.
