What is on your list of reasons for making good grades? Hey, you never know. What about possible graduate master’s or doctoral degrees? Or medical or law school? Future scholarships? Prospective employers may be exceptionally interested in your grades for key courses directly related to certain jobs. An “A” can earn you a letter of recommendation for your personal job-seeking file.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for a great semester:
1. Do your research:
Ideally, you have registered for the maximum number of classes perhaps with the idea you may drop one by the deadline. If the instructor is a PhD, his/her dissertation or other publications may be Googled. Review them. Note the date written. They may have changed their ideas. Know what subject related terminology they use. They will like you speaking their language! Appreciate their professional world, which, ideally, they are hoping to share with you. What do you see as the rationale for your subject? Remember understanding does not necessarily mean acceptance, should you disagree with any ideas. You will need a major after all and a job one day. This may be your area! Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life!
2. Be an active reader:
Advertisers know the value of repetition, alas efficient study versus mere reading, includes it. First read the material through, enjoy, note anything interesting and read again noting any questions you may have for clarity. Research shows the “A” student goes over the material that one extra time. Questions are always welcomed especially when they indicate you have studied and are involved.
3. Join a study group:
Study with others and question each other. Find upper-class students who have had the class before, quiz them. Still having difficulty? Pick up elementary materials or civil service test books for the subject area. They often include practice tests.
Go for it!
