Every semester I want to stay ahead, but I always start procrastinating. This past semester, I learned how to actually balance my academic life with my daily life as a college student. Before, I struggled with that. This past semester I made changes that truly showed academically.
1. Get a planner.
I decided to get a planner that I would actually use. I went to Michaels and got one of the most functioning planner there was that I could use. I even got some colorful pens; the pens helped with color coding every class and other activities. But the key to a planner is using it after you get it. So, take it with you everywhere!
2. Clean up.
I decided to clean out and get rid of things that I didn't need anymore. It's okay to get rid of things, although it may be hard. Take it to Goodwill or a local donation place. They love to get junk! It really helped me-I felt less stressed.
3. Sit at the front.
I know, gross! I used to not stand sitting at the front of the class. But now, I love it! I am going to try to get one of those front seats in every single class. This past semester, I sat at the front in every class, except one, which is the class I struggled in the most. So, I would say sitting at the front of the class truly helps.
4. Print every syllabus.
Okay, it may not sound like the best idea, maybe a waste of paper. But it made it so much easier to check out the attendance policy, late policy or simple guidelines for each class. Every professor has their own weird rule that you must abide by.
5. Read everything.
Yes, that means pull out the text book and read as much as you can! It may be hard sometimes, but in the end you will learn more and understand more material. I may not have completely read everything, but I tried my best to read most of everything.
6. Study early.
Do not wait until the last minute to study for your exam. If you start studying as soon as you get the powerpoint or notes in class, then it makes it much easier in the end. Most concepts build on each other, and it makes it simpler to start the studying early.
7. Make friends.
When you have people in classes that you know, it helps. You can text them for help and study with them. It can help with understanding assignments that are hard to understand. You will always have a group to work with for group projects too!
Remember that you can do it! Just make these simple changes, and you will see a big difference in your semester. By doing this, I managed my social and academic life where I was able to enjoy both while making good grades in my classes. I am actually very ready to start this semester off on a good foot again. I've cleaned out my closet, my planner is ready and I'm patiently waiting for my syllabi to be posted on AsULearn. I hope these simple things will help you. Good luck!
