By Alyssa D. Humbles
2019 is off to an amazing start, and doors are being opened right before you. With all the excitement that brings, the thoughts of returning to campus may bring on mixed emotions. For some, after a long and much needed break, looking at the lessons learned from the fall, you may have high hopes that you have this thing called ‘college’ figured out. For others, fall semester proved to be a teacher of more things than one, and you now have a new-found perspective on how you will tackle your academics in the coming term. Regardless of the perspective you may have, engaging in deliberate reflection and strategizing to enter the spring semester strong are great ways to get started.
Prior learning vs. Acquired learning
When reviewing all the concepts taught from last term, some of your general education courses may have been a repeat of prior learning. Maybe you took an English course that reinforced your senior year communication class, or the math used at your part-time job was the basis for your economics course. These elements of education are pieces of your prior learning that offset the soon coming acquired learning. Prior learning can take less concentration than acquired learning. This is great for our confidence in the moment, but should be balanced with an understanding of what is to come.
Use the Syllabus Wisely
At the beginning of the term, most courses are outlined by the syllabus detailing what topics, what chapters, and what assignments go with each week. One of the biggest techniques I learned was to stay ahead of the course. Similar to the flipped-classroom, it proved helpful to read the chapters set to be discussed in class prior to going, create any outline or notes I may have needed, and also mark where I had questions. This allowed me to be familiar with the content and allowed the instructor to reinforce my own learning and clarify any areas of confusion. This system was especially helpful with more technical courses like biology and chemistry.
(Re)Establish Strong Study Habits
We can all benefit from stronger and more consistent study habits. Especially for those who had more prior learning than acquired learning, as we enter another term, if we are not careful, we may forgo intentionally setting aside study time.
Here’s a great tip to establishing or reestablishing a regimented study time. Once you complete your class schedule, the next step should be adding your study time. There should be a balance, when at all possible, to have some morning/afternoon times, while your mind is still fresh, as well as those evening/late night times. The often-acclaimed rule of thumb is for every credit hour, there should be two hours of study time. Now I know what you may be thinking, ‘That’s not realistic with all of my other commitments!’ or ‘How will I be able to fit that all in?’ Well, maybe if I share what can be considered study time, it would become a bit more feasible.
Study time can include:
- Reading
- Study Groups
- Tutoring
- Instructor Office Hours
- Creating Study Guides
Placing importance on study time really centers the reason you are there – to focus on your education. Once you have allotted time for your courses and studying, start to build out the rest of your schedule including employment, extra-curricular activities, etc. As the term progresses you may find your study time being a bit more fluid. However, it’s best to create a plan at the beginning of the term so you can get in the habit of routine studying.
Making connections
Now that you know the lay of the land, do you know who resides there? Metaphorically speaking, the campus itself is not the only gem. The professionals who work with and for students are also a wonderful resource.
If you have not done so already, be sure to ask your peers and those you trust about who the student-advocates are on campus. Ask who they turn to if they have a question. Ask who do they trust when it comes to making difficult decisions. You do not have to navigate this college experience alone. Those back home are certainly here to support you, but there are no greater experts in navigating your specific school than those right there with you. You will be surprised at how much smoother your experience will be when those who are connected share their resources.
Once you have learned who those individuals are, make it your business to introduce yourself. Let them know that you heard of their support for students and you just wanted to make a connection. Inquire more about what specifically their role is. Ask if they mind if you stop by from time to time. Establishing these relationships when there is no crisis makes it that much more convenient when you need help.
Respect the process
You are going to have an amazing term and you will finish strong! Whether this is your first year, last year, or somewhere in between, this journey is a sum of everything you make of it. The highs and the lows. I believe that college is not just what is taught in the classroom but also what is learned outside of the classroom. Those lived and learned experiences shape who you are and will become. Don’t take this season lightly. It is unfair to think that you should have it all figured out. We all need help sometimes and the advice of the wise can save us from making foolish mistakes.
If you find yourself at a crossroad and you are unsure where to turn, always pray and ask God for direction. And- in addition to prayer, you can always turn to your family, your church family, and the NLCSE College Connection. No issue is too big or small. Don’t be shy or ashamed. We are here to see you win and support you in any way possible. We are praying for you and looking forward to your future!