Friday, January 25, 2013

Guide to Another Successful Semester

 Hello UTSC-ers! 

I hope your break went well. Are you all ready for another (hopefully!) successful semester? If you are still stuck on that vacation boat and are having some difficulties getting school work done, then, here's a refresher to some tips that can help you stay focus and earn that well-deserved 4.0 GPA this semester


Step 1: Set SMART goals for yourself
Setting goals is an important and powerful process in motivating yourself to earn that 4.0. Be sure you create specific and realistic goals to avoid being overwhelmed. Remember, set SMART goals! (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely goals)

Step 2: Have a positive attitude
I know getting a bad mark on a course is not a pleasant feeling.. but don't let that get you down. Be positive about your ability to succeed... because eventually, this will be reflected on your transcripts. There's a quote I heard from a workshop when I was in first year and has stuck with me after that: "Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm," Winston Churchill.

Step 3: Manage your time
To-do list! I said this a couple of times already in previous posts, but let me just reiterate again that having a to-do list  is an important first step in getting school work done efficiently

Step 4: Read!
Of course the next step is doing the work necessary to succeed.. and that is to read! Reading a ton of materials is a crucial part of university (reading the assigned material before lectures is even better!) Don't forget to supplement that with note-taking as well.

Step 5: Actively attend your lectures
Attending your lectures diligently is another key to academic success. This means you participate during the discussion while taking notes. Asking questions will also enhance your learning process.

Step 6: Record and Review your lectures
Listening actively in class involves recording your notes through writing or audio recording. Don't forget to re-read your lecture notes and course materials after class.

Step 7: Prepare for exam
Procrastination is usually the killer of student's GPA. So, make sure to be on top of your course readings and assignments.. it is definitely not too early to start preparing for your midterms. Also, keep definitions and practice questions in hand when studying for exams.

Some resources that can further complement these tips: this Tipsheet about 8 steps to academic success and Study skills Peer Counselling Appointments that can be booked on the intranet. 

Lastly, there is a workshop called Let's Get Motivated! Strategies for discipline and effective study habits offered by one of the Academic and Learning Strategists that can help you improve your study habits and maintain your motivation while tapping into your resiliency.  This workshop is on January 29th at 1:00 - 2:00 pm in Room AA160. You can sign up for this workshop through your intranet.

As always, you are welcome to stop by our office (AC213) and an Academic & Learning Strategist can offer their insight and help you boost your study strategies.

Have an awesome weekend,
Katrina

2 comments:

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