Dr. J's Message for Week of Oct. 4-11, 2009
Are you getting into the rhythm of the quarter? It always takes a week or so to work out new patterns of classes, study time, jobs, activities and the travel between them. It can be a little overwhelming at first, but you soon figure out when you need to be where and the best route to get there.
There are some other things you can do to keep yourself on track, avoid last-minute panics, and generally make your life run more smoothly. The earlier you start doing these, the easier it is, and there is evidence that starting out on the right foot will greatly enhance your overall academic success for the quarter. As they say, it's easier to keep up than to catch up.
1. Go to class. Basic, but so important. Excuses are easy to find, but unless you are ill, going to class should be your first priority.
2. Read the syllabus for each class. Put all the assignments and test dates into whatever kind of calendar you prefer. Remember to look at the calendar regularly so you have plenty of time to prepare for upcoming tests and project due dates.
3. Keep up with the reading and other work.
4. Talk to your professor if you are having difficulty with material.
It's all pretty simple, and I bet you could have made the list yourself. But, sometimes a nudge helps.
I keep track of my schedule with an online calendar-and, to be honest, with staff support. What works for you? Do you have a system that you'd like to share with other students? A tip for keeping on top of assignments? Let me know, and I'll post your ideas in a link from a future column.
Dr. J
Javaune Adams-Gaston, Ph.D.
Vice President for Student Life
Contact:
Ruth Gerstner
614-292-8424
gerstner.2@osu.edu