Advising Center gives tips on success
Photo Courtesy of @TUAcadAdvising on Twitter
With the start of the school year, students sometimes find themselves unsure of how to balance everything they want to do, and have to do. To help kick off the semester right, The Towerlight connected with Academic Advising Center Director Vicki Cohen for advice and helpful tips on academic life. This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.
What are some essential study habits for students to begin forming now?
It may seem like an obvious suggestion, but students should attend class. Even if there is no specific attendance policy, missing class means missing information. Plus, your professor will know that you are invested in the class. Another good study habit is studying every day/night. There may not be an assignment due the next day, but keeping ahead on reading, projects, and papers means you won’t be cramming right before an exam. You retain information better when you review material on a regular basis.
What can students do to start preparing for job and internship opportunities?
It’s never too early to start preparing for an internship or job. The Career Center is a wonderful resource with a helpful staff. They keep information on internship opportunities, job trends, and can tell you which majors can lead to specific careers. They can help with resume writing and interview skills. They also sponsor job fairs each semester.
What would you recommend to a student who finds themselves struggling academically?
Take advantage of professors’ office hours. Keep track of questions you have so you know what to ask. The Tutoring and Learning Center offers tutoring for most lower-level courses at no cost. The change of schedule period (add/drop) ends on Sept. 5. Students can withdraw from a class (choosing a grade of W) until November 5. Students should meet with their Academic Advisor before withdrawing from a class to determine the impact it will have on their graduation plans.
What would you advise students to stay away from?
This is a broad question with a multitude of answers. Something simple that will help with classes – turn off your cell phone! Don’t text or look at your phone during class. Don’t get distracted from what you are learning.
What would you suggest to students who seem to have put too much on their plate?
Prioritize. Of course schoolwork should come first, but it’s helpful to find a balance between school and other activities. It’s ok to say “no” sometimes. And sleep!
What can students get involved in to help them academically?
Form a study group, get tutoring, join a club related to your major.
– Compiled by Mary-Ellen Davis
