The start of a new semester may be daunting or exciting, maybe the combination of both, but you are in the right place for learning how to start the term off strong. Here you will learn some techniques and tips that I have used to make the most of my experience on the first day of school, the first day of class, and the first exam.
First day at school
I am sure you will be anxious for your fresh start, especially if this is your first time in a new school or program. You might have to prepare yourself to find a job, such as an internship or co-op, or maybe you need to take an accounting class (my Achilles tendon, is it yours too?) and you are just afraid, anxious… but do not PANIC!
First day of class
From my point of view, professors prefer engaged students. Open your camera to introduce yourself (if it is online) or stand up to present yourself, smile (always), collaborate in class, ask questions during classes, and do not be shy! There is no such thing as a silly question.
Take notes! And make sure you include enough detail in your notes so when you look back on them later you know what they mean.
Start early! When class finishes, and if you have time before another class starts or before going home, start working on your homework or immediately schedule a meeting with your classmates to talk about a group assignment.
Finally, review, review and review your notes.
First exam
Days before taking my exams, I start preparing to review my notes, reading and asking questions to professor. Plan ahead: I schedule my classes for next week, I plan my days, weeks and weekends, if necessary.
Do not forget to take breaks during classes and reserve a time only for you to relax. Want to learn how? In the next issue, I will share some techniques I have learned that make my brain work much better.
– By Sylvia Rodrigues
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