It's another semester and classes are kicking into full gear. Here's 11 tips from a sophomore neuroscience and Spanish double-major who has learned so much her first year at Hopkins.
1. Study on a regular basis; you'll retain the information better, and you'll most likely avoid having to cram.
2. Have a set time for everything. Your schedule will be much more organized that way.
3. Never be afraid to ask for help. At Hop, there's PILOT and the Learning Den, but there are always office hours or friends who would be more than willing to help you.
4. Study in an appropriate environment. Don't lay down on the bed with your flashcards if you know that's going to make you sleepy, and don't try to memorize a bunch of formulas and equations with a bunch of noise around you in your friend's room.
5. Don't push yourself too hard. If you know having a job, research, clubs, and 17 credits worth of classes is too much for you, don't feel scared or embarrassed to step down from a responsibility; just make sure to inform the right people of your decision respectfully.
6. Try out new things! There are so many things on campus to do, and you never know what you like until you try it.
7. Also make sure to take classes outside of your major! There are a great deal of classes at Hop, so although it is imperative to take classes for your major, it's also important to take classes outside your main area of study.
8. Ask upperclassmen for advice! It's never a bad idea to ask someone who's already been in your shoes for some guidance.
9. Don't hesitate to ask professors about opportunities (research, part-time jobs, etc.). There are tons of things happening on campus and sometimes the best way to find out about them is to just ask around.
10. Check your e-mail! It will be your primary means of communicating with your professors, advisors and more, but you'll also receive announcements from Hop about even more opportunities on and off campus.
