Pass the Spring Semester

It’s a new semester and a new year, and with it a new chance to do well in our academics! Sometimes the beginning of a new semester can be overwhelming and we might not know where to start to get the most out of our classes. Never fear! Here are some tips to help you do well this semester and avoid stress:

1. Understand what you’re learning. Cramming right before a major exam is a stressful way to study, and doesn’t help you actually learn the material. Gaining understanding in a subject takes time and is not an overnight process. While copying notes and reading slides can be helpful to help you establish a baseline of knowledge, it is not the end-all, be-all of learning. To have a less stressful semester, try summarizing lectures and topics in your own words as you take notes or review. After you’ve done this, teach the content to your roommate or friend! This is a fun, casual way to practice that will help you connect the dots and gain real insight into a subject. 
2. Find a study buddy or group. As seen in our previous tip, learning and studying in a group can be fun and productive. By engaging with others, we can discuss difficult topics in class and work out homework together. The beauty of having another person to study with is not only do you gain insight from their unique perspective, you will also be able to help each other out with your different strengths and weaknesses. Through collaboration, we can learn and understand more as well as help each other succeed! 
3. Make sure to attend all classes and do all of the assignments. While attendance may not be mandatory depending on the class, it is still highly recommended to attend all lectures. Read the syllabus to further your understanding of the attendance policy as well as the late work policy. Having your grade drop due to attendance or missing assignments is painful, and can be hard to come back from. Therefore, to minimize stress, be sure to make it to class and complete each assignment to the best of your ability. By learning in person from an expert in the subject, you will understand more than if you studied all by yourself. Learning and understanding are keys to good grades. 
4. Practice good studying habits. Don’t wait to do your readings till a week before the exam. Cramming is one way many students stress themselves out every semester. To avoid this extra pressure, do your readings and study daily. Try making a goal to dedicate 2 hours a day to reading and studying. Not only will it help you avoid cramming sessions, it’ll also make you more prepared for your exams.
5. Read and understand the syllabus. The syllabus has everything you need to know about the expectations for that specific class. This includes assignments, quizzes, exams, any group work, and the homework and exam policies. By going over the syllabus and taking the time to study it, you’ll be able to tackle what is assigned to you and plan it out in a systematic way. This way, you won’t be surprised by anything later on when you’ve already scheduled your week.