It's easy to push things off and tell yourself you don't have to work hard the first few weeks of classes, but that is one of the biggest ways you can set yourself up for failure from the start. The first few weeks, days even, of the semester are the most important for establishing a strong foundation for success in the class. Here are some tips on how to get a head start!
1.) Befriend your professor!
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This might sound weird I know, but I promise it will help. If you make it a point to introduce yourself to your professor after class or go to their office hours and just have a quick conversation with them, it will show them you are invested in the course and in turn they will also likely have an interest in you and your success. Setting up this relationship in the beginning will make you feel more comfortable later on going to your professor for help should you need it and they will want to help you more.
2.) The library is your friend!
Believe it or not, the library actually exists during other times than just finals week! Don't want until the last minute to start studying. From the first lecture, it's good to go to the library, or any quiet place you feel comfortable, and go over your notes, make study guides, flash cards, whatever it is that will help you retain the information. See if your school's library offers student tutoring services or try to find a study group. There's so many opportunities and ways available for you to do well, all you have to do is show up and take advantage of them.
3.) Go to class!
This seems like an obvious one but trust me, it's important. If you even just skip one class to sleep in, it's going to trigger a pattern. Even if your professor has a lax attendance policy, or uploads the notes online, it's still important to go because you never know what you might miss. They could be explaining an extra credit opportunity and now you've missed it. One time I even missed my teacher bringing in cupcakes for the class!
4.) Get organized!
You have to keep things straight! Calendars, sticky notes, highlighters - these are all very useful tools in staying organized. The worst feeling ever is walking into class only to find out something was due and you had forgotten. Taking five or so classes at once can be difficult, so try to relieve some stress and figure out a organization plan that works for you.
5.) Make friends in your classes!
Not only will this help you feel more motivated to go to class, but this also gives you a built in study group! It's also just always good to have more friends. Sit next to a stranger on the first day, they might just become your new good friend and study buddy!
Good luck in the upcoming semester, everybody!
