Start Smart
Make sure you know and understand the policies, procedures, and
important dates affecting students. Know what is expected of you and what you can expect
from the College. Set realistic and achievable academic and career goals for
yourself. If this includes earning a bachelor's degree, seek information and
guidance about the courses you need to take to transfer. Ask instructors,
counselors, and fellow students about additional campus resources. Then take
advantage of them! Don't wait until you have a problem or concern to see a
counselor. Make use of College facilities and services (libraries, career/transfer
centers, tutoring centers). Always have your paper records with you when you talk with a
counselor, adviser, or instructor. The person you talk to may not have all the information
available at that moment to help you be prepared. Attend class regularly and be
prepared to participate. It's simple but true. The key factor for student success is
classroom attendance and involvement. Talk to your instructors. Make use of their
office hours. If you are having difficulties in class, or there is some missed
communication, your instructor is the best person to help you. |
Effective Use of Class Time
To get the most out of your classes:
· Be there. You're in charge of your own
education. Attend all classes all the time.
· Be prepared. Prepared students are the norm in college. Do
all the reading assignments prior to class. Take reading notes outlining the major points
and jot down questions or comments. Even though some faculty may not follow the text in
class, all expect you to know what the text contains.
 Pay
attention. Concentrate on the classroom activities during class time. Focus your
attention and be aware of the speaker's emotion, body language, and key words. Ask
questions whenever you don't understand something!
 · Take notes.
Lecture notes can be effective study aids. To take notes well, you must be able to select
the main points being made and express them in your own words or at least condense the
lecturer's words to ensure a better understanding of what's been said.
· Review notes. Check over your lecture notes soon after class
while they're still fresh in your mind. One hour of study immediately after class is more
effective than two hours of study a few days later. |
