#academics: 1.) keep a planner 2.) go to office hours 3.) ask for help 4.) be okay with 'failure'

[deathofbachelor]

hey not to be rude or anything but i spent like an hour this morning writing out parts of my life i wanted to improve and then very realistic things i could do to improve them instead of doing a resolution and it was so helpful

#personal #i like highly recommend it #i narrowed it down to like mental health physical health academics and personal happiness #then i was like #mental health: 1.) see professional more 2.) measure your moods 3.) know ur limits DONE #physical health: 1.) get out more 2.) go the fuck to sleep 3.) ice hockey! #BAM DONE #academics: 1.) keep a planner 2.) go to office hours 3.) ask for help 4.) be okay with 'failure' #KAPOW DONE #happiness: think about what soothes me! so 1.) read more 2.) listen to more music 3.) make me time productive as opposed to netflix time #like SO HELPFUL #sorry just wnated to SHAREEE

[pastelsandhazelnutcoffee]

Tips for your first semester at university - A Masterpost

So, I know that it always depends on the country you live in, but here in Austria the next university semester starts on the first Monday of October. I have been at University for 3 years now and I remember how lost I was when I came there first. So I thought that I´d share my experience for those that start university this semester.

Important: This guide is written especially for universities and not for colleges of higher education as they have a different system when it comes to lectures and such.

1. Inform yourself as much as possible about your university. 

Nowadays, all universitys have their own homepage. What might be confusing however is that most universities don´t have only one. Big universities normally have a general homepage for all things that regard the university as a whole, like registration, academical celebrations or for example the actions that the university takes because of corona. This page is important for the first steps you have to take, like registration, getting your student ID and also for important news. This page will also show you what your university stands for, how they present themselves (for example if or how they support gender equality, students with physical or mental issues or their stance on climate change and what they do about it).

Often times, there are also one more pages for student services that help students with their questions and are responsible for organisatory stuff. Always check out their FAQ, it might help you a lot and sometimes they even have explaination videos. Most of the time, there are also contact options for you, like a telephone number, mail adress or even (when there is no lockdown) consultation hours in their offices.

At big universites, every faculty has at least one homepage, sometimes even more then one (for example one for students and one for the professors, sometimes another one for the curriculum and such...). And no, all these websites often are not linked to each other, so better safe them with a bookmark in your browser because otherwise finding a certain homepage again might cost you quite some time...On these pages, you normally can find the curriculum and sometimes even the recommended studying path - basically meaning which course you should take in which semester.

2. Find out where the buildings are and get to know them

Many universities have more than one building or campus. When you have to commute between them, it is important that you know how to reach them, how long it takes you to reach them (from home and from another building) and where the most important lecture halls and seminar rooms are. In most countries, the university buildings are open to the public you can just walk in and look around as long as you don´t walk into a seminar or lecture in the middle of it! If you can´t find a certain room, you normally can also ask the concierge for help. Maybe even take notes how to reach each building and the most important rooms so that when you are in a hurry and get overwhelmed by all the new experiences, you have a backup in case you forget something.

3. Plan your time wisely

You have to register yourself for the lectures and seminars you want to take each semester, so make sure you plan your time wisely. If you have to commute between buildings, don´t make yourself a tight shedule! You never know if you have questions for a professor after a lecture, if you want to exchange numbers with other students, if a lecture takes longer than planned or if the public transport arrives on time. Also, your first semester will be way more exhausting than you expect, no matter what you are used to! Never plan a full day at university for your first semester and I would also advice you to register for less courses than recommended. You can still do more in the following semesters and the first one is always the most difficult as you are not used to the new system. Keep days free for the asignments you have to or the notes you need to rework.

4. Get to know the surroundings of the buildings and the reading and studying halls.

Sometimes you will have some time between courses so it is important for you to know, where to spend these breaks. It also depends on what you want to do during this time: Talk to friends, eat, have a nice walk or read/write something for university? Most universities have rooms for studying and reading, where you have to be silent but also some where you can work together with other students and talk to them. Search also for bakeries, take-aways and a refectory so that you know where to get a meal from, if you have forgotten to bring something. Sometimes it is best to walk into some side-streets for normal grocery shops, as they often sell sandwiches and salads but are way cheaper than the refectories and restaurants in and around the university itself.

5. Have a student planner AND a calendar on your mobile phone

If you have a stundent planner, it easier to take notes about your assignments or write something down quickly. It is not dependend on a battery and you have a lot more space than on calendar or to-do-list apps. However, it can happen that you forget it on some days, so always a phone calendar as a backup to remind you of which lectures you have where and when! 

6. Try out which way of taking notes works best for you

There are so many ways how you can take notes during courses, so try out which of them works best for you. I will soon make a special post about the different ways of talking notes and organizing them, so if you don´t know about this topic, make sure to check out the upcoming post!

7. Networking is key

You are not in a normal class anymore. You won´t see the same people in every course, so try to meet new ones in every course. You don´t have to be friends with everyone, but just exchanging numbers and helping each others out with homeworks or when you can´t visit a lecture every now and then is a great help. Also join Facebook, Discord or Whatsapp Groups and read what other students write in them. If there are none - make your own and invite as many students that you meet as possible. Ask other students - especially some from higher semesters - if you have quesions about organizational stuff, rules for thesis papers and recommendations of professors or courses.

8. Document your semester

Don´t spend too much time on it, but make sure to document some important details of your semester. Which professors do like or don´t like and why? Make sure to write down their names too, not only their courses, so you know where to register again. Write down which studying or note-taking techniques work beste for you and which don´t. Write down at which times of the day you are very productive at home and when is the best time for you to be at university. 

10. Read the curriculum and the recommended study path thoroughly

The curriculum includes which courses you have to take, where you can choose and if there are requirements for some of them. It also includes description what you will learn in which course and approximately how much effort it takes to complete a course. Of course these descriptions are not always completely accurate but they will give you a good overview and especially which requirements are needed is very important to know and keep in mind.

Not all but many faculties also offer recommended study paths.These recommend, consdering not only the official requirements but also your knowledge and the efford, which courses you should visit in which semester. Often times, these are really helpful, so ask students from higher semesters if these are helpful and if they agree, then definitely stick to them!

11. Use Apps for students

There are many apps that can help you. Some of them are specifically made for connecting you better with your university by giving you direct access to your account, your mails, your time table and the latest news of your university. Other apps help you focus or keep organized. I will do another post on this topic too, so make sure to check it out too!

12. Don´t get a job immediatelly

If you can, don´t get a (part-time) job immediatelly. If you can afford to not earn money for some months, wait at least until your second semester to get a job. The first semester is challenging enough and no matter how tempting it seems to earn a nice amount of money, it is important that you can find your place at university.

13. Start studying early

I swear to you that during your school time, you never wrote an exam with such a huge amount to study - most likely not even your A levels. So either revise every weekend what you learned during the week or start studying at least some weeks before your finals to make sure you don´t underestimate it.

14. Keep yourself motivated

A semester at university can be very exhausting and challenging. You might not like all the courses you are registered for but also can´t drop out of them. So you need to keep yourself motivated, even in the middle of the semester when the next holidays and the rewards for your efforts seem far away. Keep your goals in mind, reward yourself every now and then for all the studying you are doing and use stationery that motivates you.

15. Bring enough food with you

You won´t always have the time to buy a meal at university and even if you have the time, more often then not they are overly expensive. Bring food from home that you can eat during your breaks, if possible even while walking - you may need to eat while walking to the next lecturing hall. Make sure the food won´t go bad during the day and bring brain food to. Also bring water with you and refill it during your breaks. Bring something like coffee, black or green tea, energy drinks or coffeinated gums too for long days or when you have to start very early in the morning.

16. Keep pencils and some sheets of paper everywhere

Modern technologies like mobilephones and laptops are nice and handy, but they are always dependend on their batteries. Therefore you should keep pen and paper in every bag you use, every jacket, every trouser or wherever you can keep them. By doing this, you make sure that you can always take notes, no matter what else happens. Also make sure you have a drawer or a place near your desk where you can collect these notes so you won´t loose them!

17. Keep the balance

A lot of people think that university means partying and having lots of free time. Others study all the time, having barely any free-time. With most of the exams taking place at the end of the semester, one can easily forget how much studying it takes to complete a course. On the other hand, all the new testing formats and the complex topics can seem overwhelming. Therefore it is very important that you keep a good balance between studying and freetime. Especially outside the finals week, it is good to keep one or two hours free per day that you use only for hobbies and leisure time.

18. Don´t let others pressure you about your grades

Yes, a lot of students like to brag about how fast they get on with studying and how good their grades are. Fact is, that you can´t see their university certificate, so you can´t even know if they are saying the truth or are just bragging. Furthermore, even if they say the truth, everyone goes their own path with their own pace. You don´t have to be the best or better than anyone. Do the best you can but never harm you physical or mental health for your grades!

19. Don´t be scared to change your field of study

In school you barelly get to know the different fields of study. Even subjects you have at school like a language or maths are totally different at university. If you realize that a field of study is not right for you, it is totally okay to change it! There is nothing to be embarassed about. It is important that you do what you like and what you can do - not everyone will be successful in every field. That does not mean that you should give up because one course becomes a bit difficult or because you got a negative grade on a final. Throwbacks and some troubles are normal in every study and don´t mean that you´re not qualified for it. But if you realize that it is not what you are interested in, it is better to choose a different field.

20. Don´t expect everything to be interesting

No matter how much you like a field of subject, there will always be some courses that you will find less interesting than outers. Keep yourself motivated when you have to do such courses and don´t give up because of them if you like most of the other courses and lectures.

21. Inform yourself about the types of courses before you register for them

Most faculties offer many different types of courses, all of them meaning a different effort and different ways of performance controls. Lectures normally don´t require you to be present (although it is helpful) and only have one test at the end of the semester. Seminars don´t have finals, instead you have to write a portfolio or thesis paper. Exercise courses normally have at least one test in the middle of the semester and one final plus multiple assignments or homeworks. There are many more kinds of courses, depending on your field of study.

22. Don´t expect too much from yourself

University is actually way harder then colleges or school. It´s the most difficult type of education you can choose, so don´t expect perfect grades from yourself. No matter how good your grades where at school, it is totally fine if you don´t keep them up at university! That does not mean that you became less intelligent, just that university is way harder than school!

I hope this post is helpful for some of you! I will be doing an own post soon on how to go about your first digital semester!

#university #studyblr #studyspo #studyinspo #studying tips #study tips #masterpost #study masterpost

[stuff-of-pi]

I'm graduating in 2 WEEKS and freaking out but here is some advice I've accumulated over 4 years: Go to office hours often. Try to go with questions but if you dont have any and you go anyway often other people will have good questions you didnt realize you had. If you can, do the homework early and go to office hours, often professors will look over it with you (less likely with papers, idk what you are studying but still). Try to take a class with a lot of writing early on, it will suck (1/2)

(2/3) but learning how to write will be such a BOON later on in literally any class. Even upper division STEM classes start expecting you to analyze things and writing them down well and with some intelligence. Academic writing is different than narrative writing or high school writing and the only way to learn how is to do a LOT of it. Finally, every time you watch a presentation, try to think of a question, even if you dont ask it. It keeps you engaged and helps you develop question asking

(3/3) skills. I know question asking seems like a dumb skill to have to develop but trust me, asking good, intelligent questions in ANY kind of class (STEM, Comparative Literature, Performance based, ect) shows your professors that you are actively engaged with the material in an active, inquizitive way which professors in my experience LOVE. Also its impressive when you go to seminars and they ask for questions at the end and you have a good one from a student.

AND OMG LAST ONE I PROMISE try out a couple of ways of keeping track of assignments. Not everyone works the same way, some people are into online calendars (doesnt work for me beyond class schedules), some do planners (meeeeh), I personally use a combination of to do lists for a short list of tasks (over 1-3 days) in combination with a big dry erase calendar for bigger/more long term events/deadlines and my work schedule which is one of my favorite purchases I've made in college.

First of all, CONGRATULATIONS!!! YOU MADE IT, THAT IS SO SO SO AMAZING WOW!!! I’M PROUD OF YOU FOR KICKING BUTT AND GETTING TO THE FINISH LINE, GO YOU!!!! Second of all, all of this is extremely useful, thank you so much for sharing your wisdom, O Great Graduate.

It never even crossed my mind that professors would look over homework with you??? Like, what??? Crazy helpful info, right there. I took both AP Lang and AP Lit but I still think I’m not the best analytical writer, so I’ll get those classes outta the way first then to give me a boost, that’s super good advice. Believe me, I ask some pretty stupid questions so I need to learn how to ask good ones haha. I’ve been considering getting a whiteboard, so I might just have to do that! Thank you so much for all of these tips, they are so helpful!!! And, once again, congratu-freakin-lations!!!!!!

[cruz-regina-d-journal]

07: Goal Digger

When we are talking about goals we usually think of something we want only for ourselves. It’s exciting to think of what you can be in the future and what you will have as well, but sometimes some people tend to forget that we still need to make an action before we get something we want. We keep on saying that we want this and that but we don’t even make a move on how to get it. Honestly, the past “Regina” was like that. My mind focuses only on my desires, and we can relate this to Sigmund Freud’s Psychoanalytic Theory which are the id, ego, and superego. Our id says “I want it now!” as our superego says “You still can’t have it because you don’t have money yet”, they battle around our mind until our ego says “Okay, kids, let’s study well, find work, earn money and buy what we want”. In every goal we have, there is always a process that we need to get into. We can’t have anything in an instant! Even at opening our phone, we still need to wait and do something in order to open it, and that is to press the power button. In life we also have actions like opening the power button, but the thing is we need to open ourselves. We need to step out of our comfort zone and find ways on how to achieve our goals.

Since I was a kid, my parents buy me planners and notebooks because I love writing, drawing and putting my goals in it. I have this one perpetual planner that I still update whenever I want or got something, and it always gives me this wonderful feeling at any time my plans worked or have gotten well than I expected it to be. And today it really took me a long time to know what I want to have; maybe because I feel down due to this pandemic and my family experienced a huge deal of a problem related to this year’s stumbling block which made me worry about my future. Nevertheless, I’m glad that we’re now okay and I finally conquered those mind-boggling thoughts. The pictures here  show my short and long term goals that I’ve been thinking since June 2020. I’m sharing this things to you because I think I will be needing your support and guidance 😁 Let’s bring each other to the top!

SHORT TERM GOALS

OBJECTIVE 1: Grow a Plant

TIME FRAME: August 28, 2020-October 5, 2020

RESOURCES: Shovel, seed, pot, healthy soil and water

TASKS: 

Choose the right container for your plant and put the healthy soil in it.

Plant the see at the proper depth and water it with a room-temperature water.

Maintain a consistent moisture and keep the soil warm.

Apply fertilizer every week, give the plant enough sunlight and circulate air.

SUCCESS CRITERIA: Be patient and don’t forget your tasks! 

REASON: I’ve been trying to grow a plant since I was in elementary, but I don’t know why they always wilt. I love plants but I don’t think they love me 😢

OBJECTIVE 2: Bond with my Friends and Family

TIME FRAME: March 2020-July 2020

RESOURCES: Love, happiness, understanding and self

TASKS:

Focus your time with them.

Don’t use phones, engage with them through personal interactions

Make them feel loved/important and laugh with them

Always listen to their stories and respond appropriately

Treasure the moment

SUCCESS CRITERIA: Make time with them and don’t forget to enjoy it!

REASON: As I entered college I noticed that I rarely bond with my other friends and my family because I’m studying at Manila during weekdays. I don’t have a free time whenever I go home to Cavite because I use my weekends for doing my school works and sleeping to regain the energy I’ve used during school days. I feel sad that I failed to divide my time for academics and for enjoying life. And now that it’s finally over, I think that this is a great opportunity to recoup my scantiness.

OBJECTIVE 3: Eat Eggs 5x a month

TIME FRAME: August 13, 2020-October 13,2020

RESOURCES: Eggs, pan, plate and utensils

TASKS:

Eat egg once every week.

Ask your family to not cook eggs for you when you’ve eaten once that week.

Avoid eating soft-cooked eggs.

Find an alternative food when tempted.

SUCCESS CRITERIA: Self-regulation

REASON: My asthma will kick me when I eat too much eggs! 😢 I have an allergy for excessive food, and I want to practice myself to eat egg once a week so that I can restrain myself without any trouble or some kind of temptation.

OBJECTIVE 4: Be a Reading Volunteer

TIME FRAME: September 2020-November 2020

RESOURCES: Book, camera and other gadgets

TASKS:

Pick books that have good life lessons

Look for the age recommendation and mention this

Record yourself reading 

Let people see the book you’re currently reading

Put emotions as you read, let your audience feel what the characters in the book are feeling

Engage with them even in a recorded video (ex. asking questions)

Think of a line that will make a great impact to your audience regarding the lesson of the story 

SUCCESS CRITERIA: Enjoy and engage with your audience

REASON: I am a member of PNU Reading Society and I want to officially become a reading volunteer to help students with their lifelong literacy skills that will empower their learning and also to support those people who are falling behind about reading. 

OBJECTIVE 5: Buy new Optical Glasses

TIME FRAME: January 10, 2020: 1:00PM-3:00PM

RESOURCES: Money, optical frame and receipt

TASKS:

Go to Starfinder Optical Shop at SM

Go to SoYou section and look if there’s a discount (if there is)

Choose an optical frame. Keep in mind the shape of the lens you wat and need, and also its weight

Give the chosen frame to the sales rep. and get your waiting number

Wait for your ophthalmologist to call you before you go in the room

When called, sit properly and let the ophthalmologist check you eyes

Perform the said activities

Observe the weight of the lenses 

Make sure that you picked the right graded lenses

Wait for your optical glasses for 1 hour (and so) 

Present your receipt to the sales rep. and wait for him/her to give your glasses with free case

Wear your glasses to see if it’s okay and check if there’s any damages before leaving

Note: Don’t forget to say thank you!

SUCCESS CRITERIA: Be patient, honest and critical thinker

REASON: I need new glasses because my current one is kind of dirty and is not accurate anymore as months pass by. Inaccurate graded lenses will make me suffer to headaches and dizziness making me hard to study and move.

LONG TERM GOALS

OBJECTIVE 1: Graduate from College

TIME FRAME: July 2019-November 2023

RESOURCES: Perseverance, Time Management and Patience

TASKS: 

Always listen to your professor/speaker

Engage with people around you

Do your tasks correctly as instructed and submit it as soon as possible

Make a to-do list 

Take important notes and organize them all

When there’s an exam, review 2 weeks ahead the test day

Ask questions for clarifications

Join organizations and seminars 

Grab once in a lifetime opportunities

Cry but stand up again when you fail

Believe in yourself 

Dedicate yourself to your course 

SUCCESS CRITERIA: Grit

REASON: Honestly, I want to graduate with latin honors but something struck me and thought that to graduate from college should be my main goal. Honor rolls are just bonuses of your hard work. It is obvious that I want to graduate from college to help my family and give them things that they need and want as well. I want to give them a thank you gift for providing me everything that I needed for years.

OBJECTIVE 2: Open a Business

TIME FRAME: January 2025-January 2029

RESOURCES: Money(Capital), manpower, product/service, promotion, patience, determination and connections

TASKS: 

Think of a business that is unique where many customers will be attracted

Create a solid business plan with your chosen strategy

Make a website or Facebook/Instagram Page about your business

Be approachable to gain customers

Advertise your product/service

When the business grew bigger, register your business name at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)

Register with Barangay and present valid IDs

Register your business to your city mayor’s office (LGU)

Register with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)

Remember to always check your financial status

SUCCESS CRITERIA: Patience, Analytical skill, Accounting, Problem Solving and Communication & Negotiation

REASON: I was an ABM student before and I want to make use of my skills to help my family and those people who need financial assistance. Opening a business was also part of my dreams. Not only that it will help me to gain more money for my post-graduate, but I want to invest my small money from my teaching profession to something that I can make use to the present and future. Nevertheless, having a business will not stop me from teaching.

OBJECTIVE 3: Become a Doctor

TIME FRAME: August 2024-November 2028

RESOURCES: Money, grit, school supplies, experiences and books

TASKS:

Look for a medical school (preferably: De La Salle Medical and Health Sciences Institute)

Take the MCAT (Medical College Application Test)

Focus on your studies to be a Psychiatrist

Earn a Doctor of Medicine and complete your residency

SUCCESS CRITERIA: Patience, Empathy, Focus, Practical & Decision-Making Skills and Time Management 

REASON: I had this late bloomer moment. Before entering college I was confused on what I really want to be. Not that I am boasting but I had this mindset before that any courses will do because I thought I can do everything. My top choices are Architecture, Accountancy, Teaching, and Medical. I chose teaching since there’s a time that I became super inspired of my Senior High School professor and I noticed that from the past few years of my life, I never experienced a class with an excellent Filipino teacher who really took a course of Filipino, and that’s why I want to became one. As I became a BFE Student, I still want to pursue my medical dream. I want to be more useful to my people even if it will take me thousand years to be a 100%.

OBJECTIVE 4: Buy a New House

TIME FRAME: July 2024-July 2026

RESOURCES: Money and communication

TASKS:

Know your budget for your house and stick to it. DON’T EXCEED TO YOUR ESTIMATION!

Research subdivisions or areas that are accessible to buy your needs and public transportation

Get prequalified and preapproved for credit for your mortgage

Find a nice and approachable real estate agent

Start touring to subdivisions or areas that you already searched (Make sure to check every detail of the house especially the water and electrical system and always consider the people who will live with you)

Make an offer

After building the house, get a home inspection and check if there are structural damages before transferring (if there are, contact your real estate agent)

Make sure to pay your monthly bill and coordinate your paperwork

SUCCESS CRITERIA: Hard working, Critical Thinking, Observance and Patience

REASON: I don’t want to be dependent of my family’s money and belongings. I want to buy my own place for my family, and if blessed, I am glad to share my payments with my partner to build our new life together. If my parents want to stay with me, I will let them stay there as well, but if they prefer to stay at our old house, then I’ll support for the renovation of our old house. 

OBJECTIVE 5: Live a Healthy Life

TIME FRAME: August 2020-August 2025

RESOURCES: Healthy food and balanced diet

TASKS: 

Be physically active

Eat a healthy rich diet

Drink vitamins

Do yoga and exercises

Make time with friends and focus in the present

SUCCESS CRITERIA: Self-regulation and willingness

REASON: I have a weak body and I want to practice a healthy life until I get used to it and became my normal habit. I am not a fan of junk food but I still think that I’m not living a healthy life today because I refuse to exercise. But now that I noticed that it is important to take care of yourself and we need these kind of things to prevent us from being sick, I finally told myself that I have to change this kind of lifestyle and start to be healthy; not only physically but also mentally.

#Ethics #Goals

[happily-studious]

College Success: How to keep up with your work.

I created this guide for college students, but it works for high school, too. This guide is designed to help all students, no matter your health status or major. I took care to include a couple tips for maintaining your mental and physical health while managing a college course load. I hope you enjoy, and I hope this helps!!!

1. Don't force yourself.

This is the most important tip. Self care is vital. When you're dealing with a fever, the flu, chronic pain, a stomach bug, or even major depression, it can be difficult to study effectively. Don't force yourself to study if you're not feeling well enough to get out of bed and do things. Making yourself get up to study helps nobody if you really aren't feeling well. You will only feel distracted and you won't be able to remember much of what you worked toward. Remind yourself that tomorrow is a new day to be productive, and if you're really feeling guilty for not doing anything, you can restart your day at 2 PM. Now, this isn't an excuse to procrastinate. You should still get up and do your work if you have a chest cold, are suffering from allergies, or even if you're just having a plain old bad day. Monitor how you feel and ask yourself if you're feeling well enough to study or not.

2. Divide large workloads into smaller tasks.

Having a big project to do or having a major exam to study for can be very overwhelming to the point of wanting to cram it all into one day. Here's a tip: DON'T do this. Your work won't be it's best and your grade may suffer. Instead, pull out your planner. Write down the date that the assignment is due. Write down your exam dates. Highlight it or put a star next to it to symbolize it's importance and to remind you of what you're working toward. Then, you may want to turn to the notes section or pull out a piece of paper. Some planners have sections where the month has individual days where you can write extended information. Go day by day. Start with the day the work was assigned to you. Create small goals to complete every day leading up to the due date of the assignment. For example, if a big research paper is due: day 1 may be spent searching for a topic, days 2 & 3 can be spent researching the topic and collecting information, day 4 will be planning and drafting the paper, day 5 will be actually writing the paper, day 6 will be editing and revising, and day 7 will be submitting the assignment. Chunking large workloads into easy to manage, bite-sized tasks will reduce the amount of stress you experience and allow you to to focus better.

3. Develop a growth mindset.

In my student success class, we watched a TedTalk by Carol Dweck. She talked about developing a growth mindset in order raise your grades and accomplish your goals more effectively. Basically, a fixed mindset looks like this: "I got a 67% on this test, I thought I did better, I'm a failure, I'm either good at it or I'm not, I hate challenges". A growth mindset, on the other hand, looks like this: "I got a 67% on this test, so what did I do wrong? Failure is an opportunity to grow and do better next time, I should try new study tactics, I like challenges, feedback is constructive". Having a growth mindset highlights the idea that failure isn't permanent, and that you can become better at something through hard work and a good attitude.

4. Develop a schedule.

To combat procrastination, you can develop a study schedule. Reserve time during the day, maybe an hour or two, to dedicate to a specific study activity. Write it down in your planner. For example, on Wednesdays and Fridays from 3 PM-4 PM, I like to copy down my notes from my laptop onto paper. This is my time to make my notes more understandable, and I can also convert information into visual charts and graphs to better see the material. This time is your own to catch up on work, review your notes, and focus on your academic goals. Use this time wisely.

5. Don't expect instructions.

Many college professors will expect you to come to class having already read the chapters and have notes taken. Their job is to teach you, not baby sit you to make sure you're coming to class prepared. Some professors will remind you to keep up with your assigned readings. Others will expect you to do it on your own. It's up to you to learn how your professor works, and to refer to your syllibi to stay on track. Do what you have to do to keep track of your syllibi; set reminders on your phone to check up with your syllibi, put your syllibi in a safe and easy to access place, just do what you think is best.

6. Don't stop studying.

A well-exercised brain stores information longer and learns how to process it using different strategies. In order to give your brain the exercise it needs, review your materials often and in different ways. For instance, rewriting your notes helps for one occasion, but next time create and use flashcards. Use different techniques for studying the same topic. This will teach your brain how to use the information you study in different situations so you'll do better on tests. Also, do not quit studying certain topics. If you completed the chapter on the cardiovascular system, for example, don't stop studying it just because you finished that chapter. Return to the information every week or two so that your brain retains what you've learned. You'll thank me when that topic from the beginning of the semester ends up on final exams.

7. Flash cards, flash cards, flash cards.

Ah, yes. Flash cards. The tool every studyblr swears by. But, they work! Now, how do you use this marvelous invention? Well, there's several different ways. They can be used for everything, from vocabulary terms to mathematical equations & properties. They're also reversible. For example, instead of reading the word then flipping over to see the definition, you can do the exact opposite. Start with the definition, then try to figure out the word. Flip the card over to see if you were correct. Cross-checking yourself in this manner also exercises your brain more! Another reason flash cards are adored so much is for their portability. Seriously, stuff them in your pocket or in your purse or laptop case and pull them out wherever you go if you find idle time. Review them at the doctor's office, babysitting your cousin, between tv commercials, waiting in line at the grocery store, walking between classes, or even during long car rides (as long as you're not driving!).

8. Know how you work best.

Assess yourself to see what conditions are best (or worst) for you to work in. Do you work better with bright light? Dim light? Do you focus better in the early morning, late morning/early afternoon, early evening, or late at night? Are you more efficient when you study alone or in small groups? Can you focus in large groups or not? Do you tend to procrastinate? Does music help you focus, or does it just hinder your progress? All of these factors are essential to creating an ideal study environment. You know yourself best. See what works best for you and try to create a comfortable study space for yourself.

9. Never settle for taking notes once.

If you take notes one time, sure they might be organized in a way that works for you, but are you going to be able to remember what you wrote? If you type your notes on your computer, make sure to write them down in a notebook later. If the notes you recorded during lecture are sloppy, rewrite them. Then, go back and highlight the essentials. Some important things to highlight include new terms and ideas, dates and names, and key concepts. Rewriting your notes is proven to boost memory. Plus, you get to make them pretty!

10. Remember to treat yourself.

After a long, hard day of studying, get up and stretch. You can breathe now, you did it! Reward yourself with some ice cream, a warm bath, some Netflix time, or whatever you enjoy! Rewarding yourself after doing hard work also teaches your brain to associate studying with a reward at the end, so you'll be more likely to want to work hard!

Good luck pursuing your dreams! ❤

#studyblr #studyspo #study #study tips #study motivation #study notes #how to study #college success #college #university #student life #student #student success #mine

[lettersfromhav]

college advice from someone who’s been on both sides of it

So I'm finishing up my Ph.D. and preparing to depart for the real world (no, just kidding, I'm going to be in school forever, only in a different capacity) and I thought I'd put together a list of some college tips to share with you all. I graduated with my B.A. in 2012, magna cum laude, with 2 majors, 1 honours thesis, 2 on-campus jobs, and 3 music things. Since then, I've gone to grad school and also taught six semesters of first-year seminars. Now I'm going on the job market for teaching positions. All of this means that I've seen both sides of the college experience, as a student and as an instructor. There are a lot of great & useful college advice posts going around studyblr this time of here, and I wanted to add my own. I hope it’s useful. So here we go, with a “read more” because it’s long (sorry if you’re on mobile):

academics

find your classrooms ahead of time (profs' offices too)

figure out how long it will take you to walk between places

figure out where your best seat will be & claim it

say hi to the people next to you, learn their names

take notes in class

take advantage of extra credit

try your best not to fall asleep in class (and if you do fall asleep, apologise to the prof afterwards)

bring your glasses if you need them, don't be stubborn about it

check out the library, wander in the stacks, talk to the librarians

figure out how & where to print

buy used books/textbooks, or rent them, but be careful with ebooks (some profs don't allow them)

plan breaks into your class schedule, or block everything together, whichever works best for you

work out the pros & cons of 8am classes and/or night classes

plan ahead – have a planner, put things in it, do them

fake deadlines are a thing (write down earlier deadlines, trick yourself into meeting them, bask in satisfaction)

grades won’t be what they were in high school

keep in mind GPA values: a 3.5 will see you graduating with honours

be nice to the departmental administrative staff, thank them for helping you (even with small things)

office hours versus emailing profs: both will get your questions answered (probably) but if you can go and talk in person, do it

profs & TAs are people too, they have lives, they have bad days

if something comes up, talk to your prof, be honest but don't overshare, just show them you're trying

on that note, try

ask friends and especially older students for opinions about profs when you're deciding on your classes, but also check things out yourself  

if your profs invite you to dinner/coffee/events, show up

unless the prof is not a good person, in which case AVOID and spread the word to your friends

if your friends spread this word to you, believe them

if you end up with a prof that your intuition tells you “no” about, trust that intuition

switch classes, talk to the dept. head, talk to the dean, do whatever you need to do

also document everything (save emails, screenshot things, write it down)

also “confidentiality” might be a lie, even if they tell you that your report is confidential (at my undergrad, only the counseling center & chaplain's offices were truly confidential, and even then only if there was no immediate threat)

the above isn't meant to scare you, just make you aware – statistically, you'll probably meet some people you'll wish you hadn't met, so take care of yourself and know your options

you might change your major a few times and that's ok

if it takes you more than 4 years to graduate, that's ok too

it's not the end of the world if you get a bad grade

it's not the end of the world if you need tutoring

tutoring is awesome & you should take advantage of it, especially if it's free -- campus writing centers are great too

it's not even the end of the world if you have to withdraw from a class, or take a leave of absence

keep at it & you will be fine

food

remember to eat

be nice to the dining hall staff (and all campus staff, especially maintenance/facilities, they are the ones who can help you out)

figure out how to discreetly take food from the dining hall (dry cereal, fruit, a sandwich, not entire pantries please)

keep snacks in your room (and don't eat them all at once)

fruits & vegetables are your friends

you all know this already but stay hydrated

take advantage of free food events on campus (my undergrad had a twitter dedicated to this)

sometimes religious organisations will host them – you can go even if you're not religious, just be polite

find a coffeeshop & be nice to the baristas, tip if you can

but also take it easy on the coffee consumption, you only have one heart

you still have to eat even if you get sick – at least what one of my family members calls the “BRAT diet” (bread, rice, applesauce, tea) until you feel better

if you have allergies, talk to the dining hall staff and explain your situation, ask them for advice & they should be able to help you out

if you feel pressured to diet or lose weight, 1) leave those people, and 2) eat what's right for your body

housing

make a roommate contract (rules for lights on/off, quiet hours, temperature control, guests, cleaning, locked doors, etc.)

don't lose your keys, but also don't wear a lanyard (carabiner inside a backpack pocket is a good plan)

unless lanyards are your thing, in which case, go for it

don't overspend on décor/bedding, go basic & minimal (rooms are small)

figure out how much sleep you need & get it, and try to stick to a routine

bring a padlock or two and some cable, use if it you feel you need to – also, laptop locks are under-rated, get one

bring a mirror, a lamp, and possibly a comfortable desk chair

extension cords with surge protectors are the way to go

if you want to bring a stuffed animal or something just bring it, don't worry about it not being “cool”

bring clothing that makes you feel like yourself when you wear it

get a plant or two and try not to kill it

open floor space creates the illusion of a bigger room

find out how to take out your trash & then actually do it

keep a few basic cleaning supplies in your room (Clorox or Lysol wipes will take care of almost anything in a dorm room, plus maybe a vacuum)

if you have white towels and white sheets, you can wash them together & add a little bleach, they will always look clean

lofted beds look nice but are a pain to change sheets on, just fyi

invest in a mattress topper (I say “invest”; mine was foam and like $20, no need to get super fancy)

if your mattress really is crap, talk to facilities about your options

invest in good headphones (this may actually be an investment)

bring a few favourite non-academic books to keep in your room for when you need a break from school reading

co-ed bathrooms might be a thing, it will be fine

if it's not fine, report it (RA, residence life, campus security) – be safe, kids

shower sandals are your friend – you might also want regular slippers

don't sexile your roommate – that's just rude, it's their room too, they're paying for housing just like you

if you are the one sexiled, have a conversation about it (after the fact, when everyone is clothed again) and lay out the rules

get your RA involved if need be, you have a right to your own room

don't hole up in your room all the time, but also don't be afraid to retreat back to it when you need to

if you have an apartment: 

know what the deal is on how/when to pay rent, utilities, etc.; take photos for your security deposit; say hi to your neighbours even if you're not friends; have a basic toolkit; write down the non-emergency numbers for local police & fire and post them on your fridge; learn the system for taking out trash (dumpster, trash tags, etc.); make sure you know parking rules if you have a car; check your mail every day so it doesn't pile up; clean regularly

you will not survive college without a good living situation, so do whatever you need to do to make that happen

life

don't be afraid to do things alone

don't be afraid to fake-date your friends in order to get free stuff (for example, my undergrad had some free “couples” events on Valentine’s Day that a friend & I took advantage of a few times)

keep an eye out for dogs on campus & pet them (unless they're service dogs and hard at work, in which case admire from afar)

get a backpack that's comfortable to wear & can hold what you need

send postcards to your friends at other colleges (getting mail is surprisingly nice)

learn how to do laundry before you go to college

find the gym & use it (if it's free)

find the campus health clinic & use it (especially if it's free or low-cost)

don't leave your things unattended in the library even if it seems safe

learn how to use your local public transportation, if it exists

explore your town/city, bring friends along

bring a bicycle if you can and if your campus isn't entirely hills

if you have a car: wash it from time to time, keep the gas tank at least half full, get a snow shovel and keep it in your trunk (climate depending)

have at least one warm jacket, and one rain jacket (climate depending)

have good shoes, possibly boots – you'll likely be walking a lot

take early morning walks with friends (but be safe about it) and then go to breakfast together

find a playground & use it

go into campus buildings that you otherwise wouldn’t and explore – find new study spaces, cool art, comfortable chairs, who knows what

check out campus museums

join clubs you will actually enjoy, or that have people you want to spend time with

you can quit clubs at any time

you can change your mind any time – show up to an event, don't like it, leave, it's fine

you can also make up things if you need an excuse to leave -- no one will know, you are the master of your own schedule in college

there's something weirdly wonderful about showering at 5pm with the windows open, just saying

if you're queer and want to come out, come out; if not, no pressure

if you do, be careful about who you come out to, and what gets spread on social media -- look out for yourself

also your campus almost certainly has an lgbtq resource center so maybe use it (mine was a subset of the women's center)

if you came out using a term that then stops working for you, you're allowed to change your terms

don't drink too much, look out for your friends, tip $1 per drink, figure out which bar is least sketchy (also most sketchy – and then avoid that one)

the least sketchy bar is possibly going to be the place your profs hang out -- do the casual nod/wave to say hi if you see them, don’t just ignore them, but then get back to your friends

be super careful of what/how much you drink at house parties since you probably don’t know what you’re actually drinking

don't give in to pressure to be sexually active if it's not your thing

if it is your thing, still don't give into pressure, and also use protection every single time

enthusiastic consent is a thing, check in with your partner, make sure you're both good

get to know people in years both above and below yours

save people's numbers, names, birthdays in your phone

take photos with your friends & save them too

listen to your college’s radio station (maybe even DJ for them)

call your parents or family of choice from time to time, or at least text them

watch whatever will fit your mood and don't worry about what anyone thinks: childhood movies, HGTV, YouTube, whatever

in general don't worry so much about what people think, everyone is mostly a mess anyway

so try to be patient with people, and with yourself

survival kit: full water bottle (maybe one with a filter if your tap water is bad), gum or mints, lip balm, a pen, ibuprofen/advil, some cash

do what you want to do, within reason – you're an adult now and can make your own choices, so make good choices and be the person you want to be

#college advice #college tips #uni tips #freshmen advice #back to school #tagging some studyblrs I've been following & enjoying #tbhstudying #jiyeonstudies #hellosoko #studyingwug #morningkou #etudiance #cmpsbls #ploverstudies #yachiistudies #englishmajorinrepair #heysareena #fiercelittlestudyblr #caffestudy #messy-studying #thanks for putting good content on my dash! I hope you all have good days #studyblr #gradblr #life of a lit grad #reference

[techblur]

            First, I’m truly sorry if this post is uploaded in the middle of your school year, but I guess it’s better than nothing right? Well, I would like to congratulate everyone for surviving the past school year and for those who are wondering what kind of post I’m writing today, it is going to be everything (or maybe) you need to know about school life. This is based on my experiences so, do feel free to use any of the tips in this post if you find it helpful.

1.     Sleep early

Holidays are over, time for a reality check, school is going to start soon. Start organizing your life by repairing your body clock back to school season. If you have been going to bed at 3 in the morning because you are playing Overwatch or binge watching your favorite series, I would suggest you try to sleep early (probably around 11 pm) to ensure that your body clock would be ready before school starts. Try to change your sleeping routine at least a week before your first day of school so that your body would be familiarised with the new routine.

2.     Buy your necessary things beforehand

Okay, probably people might go for a last-minute shopping trip to their stationery store because there would be a “Back to School” sale going on, but there are times when you try to find the things that you would need for school only to find out that it is out-of-stock? Well, list down things that you need for the school year such as stationery on your phone’s memo and make a trip to your stationery store a month before school starts to ensure that you have your items ready for school. Personally, I would go to Popular two months in advance to grab all my stationery that I need for the following school year.

3.     Start planning

School is where your brain runs all over the place if you are not ready. That’s me during my first week in Polytechnic (which is equivalent to junior college in the UK or community college in the US). So, I would suggest you start having a bullet journal or simply a small planner with you to school. You do not have to make fancy spreads on your bullet journal if you do not have time to do so. If it helps you with your planning, it is more than enough.

4.     Things to bring to school

You do not have to bring your entire stationery collection to school. Just bring a few black or blue pens (be it gel ink pens or ballpoint pens), two colors of highlighters, ruler, pencil and eraser and you are good to go! Do not forget about your scientific calculator and mathematic set if you need for class. Other than your textbooks or laptop, bring a small notebook (preferably A5 because I feel that it’s the perfect size to slide into your bag) to jot down information during lessons or lectures. Also, do not forget your planner. Other necessities you would need would be umbrella, packet of tissue paper, hand sanitizer, a small bag to keep your sanitary pads or plasters, laptop charger so that your laptop would not die on you during lectures, water bottle to keep yourself hydrated, a jacket so that you would still be comfortable despite the blasting aircon in the lecture theatre or classroom.

5.     Make sure to have your breakfast

Breakfast is probably the most crucial meal of the day because it is to kick start your day. Well, you do not need to have a full table meal for breakfast or you would end up sleeping in class due to overeating. At least you have something for your body to digest before starting your day in school.

6.     Forming good habits

It’s not too late to develop good habits. As the saying goes, “old habits die hard”, try to slowly dispense old yet bad habits. Start early before your school year so that you would be familiarised with the new habits when school starts. Good habits include – packing your bag the day before, organizing your room/desk, planning, etc.

7.     What to wear for school

Every school have a dress code for the students to follow and with that, some students would treat their school’s corridor as their fashion runaway. Trust me, you do not need to dress fashionable well to go to school. Wear casually unless you have a presentation to go, dress smart and formal. Also, for makeup, you are already beautiful, you do not have to spend 1 hour on doing your makeup, that 1 hour can usually be used to calm yourself down (or sometimes, sleep in).

8.     Digital notes vs traditional notes

I guess there’s an ongoing debate on what type of notes should you use. Be it digital or paper, both serve the same purpose which is to help you with your academics. There are pros and cons in using either digital or paper which I would probably going to explain in another post. But, depending on your situation, if your lecture does not allow any form of digital notes, I guess handwritten notes would be the only choice, unless you transfer your handwritten notes to your laptop. But during fast-paced lecture, I personally prefer digital notes because I type faster than writing. The other reason why I personally choose digital notes is that I can use it during examinations easier.

9.     Few close friends are enough

You do not have to be friends with your entire cohort. Stick to a few, that will help you with your journey in the school year. It’s best to have at least two or three close friends in each class so that if you are absent for any of the lesson or lecture, you can go to them and ask for help. If you and your friends have the same mindset of achieving good grades for the school year, everything is going to be fine.

10.  Never afraid to ask your lecturer for help

I used to be afraid of asking questions in class because I am afraid that the lecturer would find me someone who ask irrelevant questions in class. But trust me, it’s for your own benefit. Just ask them questions when in doubt. Raise your hands and ask your questions. If you are afraid to ask questions in class, ask after class. Tell them that you have some clarification to make and I am sure that they would be happy to help you.

11.  Attend class regularly

Even though there are schools that make classes optional (not the case for mine), try to at least attend 90% of your classes. That way, you would not have to miss out on lessons and you would not be a blur student who would be rushing for exam notes from your classmates. You would be prepared of what would be tested during the examinations. However, if you are really feeling unwell, please do not drag yourself to school. Instead, visit the doctor and get proper medication. Rest well because it’s an indication that your body is lethargic. Take some vitamins to keep your body healthy and full of nutrients.

12.  Take part in after school activities

There are more than just your academics my dear. Regularly check your school’s board or email for any activities that you can take part. Be it sports competition, maths or science competition or even volunteering work, you can use them for your application for your future’s academics. This not only boosts your certificate but it also gives you the experience that you might miss.

13.  Get used to your campus

If you are a freshman in school, make sure you try to locate your classes beforehand. You would not want to get lost on your first day of class and ended up late. I suggest you search up your classes first before your school’s office and the cafeterias.

14.  At the end of the day, grades do not define you

Listen here sweetheart, despite the grades that are reflected on your certificate at the end of the day, those As or Bs you have does not define who you truly are. What matter the most is your passion to learn. Because your future boss would not only look at your grades but also whether you are capable of working in the company.

#mine #study tips #tips #study #studyblr #studyinspo #studying #studyspo #sgstudy #sgstudyblr #sg study #sg studyblr #study notes #study guide #study motivation #studyspiration

[optomstudies]

#optomstudies here to stop your 💸💸💸 from flying away, again! This is to answer an ask I received from @psychblr and also the anon entering uni who wanted to know about textbooks! (thank you for asking!!). 

For some pointers on how to make money, please also check out my 7 Part Time Work post. The first part will cover food, transport and entertainment (linked here). This second part will cover textbooks, tax, and scholarships.

TEXTBOOKS

Generally the only free textbooks... aren’t usually prescribed for your course by your professor. Meaning they’re essentially useless. I mean, sure they’re good resources, but if you need to do any specific reading or questions, you’re out of options :L

After 1st year, you’ll find it really difficult to find free textbooks (legally). It’s the publisher who decides whether a textbook is available or not. If they’re being draconian, they’ll actively take down all the .pdf links on Google.

You can try some of the websites here, they seemed pretty good, but it will take a little digging. Anything that links you to a site where you need to purchase the textbook means that the publisher hasn’t made it free, and hence it’s illegal to get it for free. Note: Don’t download anything that tells you to download a specific download manager though.

Save money by renting or purchasing second hand. 

Okay so what to do? I study optometry, meaning like all university degrees, there aren’t any free textbooks once you get past 1st year sciences LOL. It’s just too niche. My principles are:

I only buy ‘prescribed’ textbooks.

Wait until the second week to see whether you actually need the textbook a great deal. Your professor will usually tell you.

NB. if your professor wrote the book, and is telling you that you need the book, I’d suggest you try for an older version, used version, or share with someone, since they have conflicting interests. This actually happens so much with the Management and Accounting Schools lol.

Go to the library to peruse the textbook. There are copies in the High Use Collection where you can only borrow the textbook for 2 hours. Just stalk the place. Your uni library website will tell you whether a textbook has been checked out or not. 

If I feel like the textbook is useful for more than 1 year then I’ll purchase it. Otherwise I just make copies of the chapter I need to use (as far as copyright law goes, you can copy up to 1 chapter or 10% of a book, whichever is larger).

Try the Book Depository if you are buying new - reputable, plus occasionally cheaper than university bookstore prices (which are already 10% off RRP). 

For every other textbook, just camp out at the library for it. When the teacher suggests you read something, zip off to the library as soon as class ends.

Sell the textbook to next year’s students once you’re done using it to recoup your losses. 

TAX

So if you’ve managed to get a job directly in the area that you’re working towards in the future, you’ll actually be able to claim back some of the course expenses as tax deductions since money you spend on your university degree is a work-related self-education expense since it “result in, or is likely to result in, an increase in your income from your current employment” (source). 

You can claim the following expenses in relation to your self-education. I’ve marked the ones that uni students should find the most useful. 

accommodation and meals (if away from home overnight) !!!

computer consumables !!!

course fees (but not HECS-HELP repayments)

decline in value for depreciating assets (cost exceeds $300)

purchase of equipment or technical instruments costing $300 or less !!!

equipment repairs

fares

home office running costs !!!

interest

internet usage (excluding connection fees) !!!

parking fees (only for work-related claims)

phone calls

postage

stationery !!!

student union fees !!!

student services and amenities fees !!!

textbooks !!!

trade, professional, or academic journals

travel to-and-from place of education (only for work-related claims) !!!

To claim, make sure you keep all your receipts, and logbook anything needed!

SCHOLARSHIPS

I’ll focus on Australian scholarships. There’s plenty of information about American scholarships, and how to write a scholarship essay in this masterpost answer here. 

Unlike American scholarships, Australian scholarships are usually tethered to the university that you apply to. 

Each grant has specific criteria for who can apply, e.g. females, sports achievements, indigenous students, etc. Some are just open to any high achievers. 

Most scholarships are for high-school leavers and first year students, but there are a few that are offered for higher years too (I wish I had known this!)

Each grant is a couple of thousand dollars, which can really help you out. Grants for next year usually open during second semester, so just go for it! You can’t win any if you don’t even put an application in!

MY STUDY TIPS

Please see my #optomstudies tag or my study tips directory (web only) for the full list of study tips + see my langblr posts + stationery + bujo spreads! ^_^

UNIVERSITY STUDY TIPS SERIES

Part 0 Choosing a Degree - what’s right for you? popular!!

> Things to Consider Before Switching Degrees!

> Changing Degrees

Part 1 Administration - choosing majors, available services, choosing class times etc.

Part 2 Getting to Class - pros and cons of attending class, when you should choose not to attend, advice about choosing a backpack and other essential equipment.

> Laptop Considerations and Recommendations

Part 3 Studying - differences between high school and uni, basic tips on how to keep on track, class types like lectures, tutorials, etc.

Part 4 Extra-Curriculars - what clubs to join, what to do outside class, and other great things to discover around campus.

Part 5 Exams - everything to know about examiners, how to prepare, what happens during the whole examination process.

Part 6 Social Life - differences between high school and university, some hard learnt lessons, etc.

Part 7 Part Time Work

Part 8 Four Secrets The Uni Tells You

Part 9 Best Study Spots On Campus

Part 10 Saving Money 1 - Food, Transport, Entertainment

Part 10 Saving Money 2 - Textbooks, Tax, Scholarships

Part 11 Adapting to Uni Study - 3 big differences from studying in high school popular!!

Part 12 How to Study From Textbooks in Uni

Part 13 Dealing with Lazy Group Members popular!!

Transitioning from High School to University popular!!

OTHER POPULAR POSTS

Weekly Planner Printable with Extra Space for Sat/Sun  popular!!

Overcoming the Planning Fallacy

Study Spaces Masterpost

Studying and your Visual System

Catching Up with Your Studies  popular!!

Sleeping and Waking Up Early  popular!!

My 2017 Planner and Bullet Journal  popular!!

#studyblr #studyspo #study tips #saving money #emmastudies #hermionegoals #obsidianstudy #studyplants #studypetals #areistotle #eintsein #educatier #tbhstudying #etudiance #university #college #wiwikbu #optomstudies #mymp

[amandadollindependent]

College Tips

College is a rough transition for many students. It is the first time you are on your own, responsible for yourself, and no one is nursing you through the day. I have a couple tips that might help you even if you aren’t struggling. So here are my tips on how to struggle less with college. 

1. Go to office hours

GO TO OFFICE HOURS! I recommend figuring out in the first week or two which teachers you like then going to office hours even for a few minutes by week three. You want your teachers to know your face and here’s why. You are more than a sloppy email begging for an extension on your paper if they have spoken to you. They appreciate your effort and are more willing to help you. They may have connections that will help you in your future. Having a teacher as a reference looks good and many teachers are great candidates for recommendation letters later on. When you feel stuck about your future they are amazing for support. More wise than your friends advice, less strict than your parents advice, and full of helpful options and resources. I promise you will not regret it. Many of my teachers have become friends and have helped me in one way or another with my future. Not to mention, they are excited to have students come into their office hours, even to just ask questions about topics unrelated to class. Most teachers want to help you all you have to do is just talk to them. I could go on. Just go. 

1A. Build a relationship with at least two of your teachers

Basically everything I just said. Going back to talk to the ones you connect with about classes and life will put you in a great position when you move into your later undergrad and your life after college. I needed recommendation letters for my internship applications. I easily found two teachers I have personally connected with to write them. They didn’t give me a cookie cutter copy with my name on it either because they knew me. I go the internship I wanted at Beaumont hospital, by the way. You will not regret getting to know at least two of your teachers in your four years, I swear by it. Those are references and guides for life. 

2. Whether it be a planner or a color coded calendar, get organized. 

I have a dry erase board on my wall with exams, work, meetings, assignments, etc. all color coded. This board makes me feel prepared to take on every day, and there are no assignments, quizzes, exams, etc. that take me by surprise. I tried a planner, not a fan. I recommend giving either of these options a shot though. Keeping your tasks organized will help you stay on track and use your time efficiently, just figure out which methods work best for you.

3. Stick to your study habits that work but also adapt.

I did not realize until my junior year that highlighting my notes helps me tremendously when I study. Three years... Geez. Pay attention to what does work or you and keep to it. It’ll help you figure out how to study. However, you will run into classes that you study for your normal way and it doesn’t work out. This is where you go to office hours and look at your exam, go in before an exam for pointers, ask questions, etc. Looking back at the questions you got wrong will help you know what to look for on the next one. Maybe you’ll even get some points back (I’ve seen it happen), who knows. 

4. Get involved in some way 

Volunteer, sports, clubs, academic fraternities, local organizations. Whichever way you do it, get involved. I was a soccer player my whole life, and I regret not joining the club team at my college everyday. It goes back to that comfort thing; step out of it! Whether it is something you have enjoyed or something new you want to try, now is the time. This is where you find yourself. 

5. Shadow, get excited

One thing I haven’t done enough of is shadow. However, in the summer to come I’ll be doing a bunch, so don’t think I am a hypocrite. Shadowing a job you are interested in makes the idea real. We have been in school so long that we get stuck in the motion of being a student and not remembering where we’re headed. Shadowing helps you figure out what you want to do, yeah, but I think it is important so you can get a picture of your future that gets you more excited/eager to learn. Which is especially helpful if you are struggling to give yourself a reason to go to class come midway of the semester.

6. For the love of God go to class

GO TO CLASS. ESPECIALLY AS A FRESHMAN. I get you can skip two weeks of high school like it’s nothing but college is not the same. You have to learn how to adjust to college BEFORE skipping all of your classes.You will get behind. You will miss assignments. Your teachers will not work with you because they are aware you are not trying and always skip class. Just showing up for class will often make the difference when you want to get some extra credit or turn in an assignment late. Do I skip? Yes, but rarely. Could my grades have been better had I not skipped as a freshman? Absolutely.

7. Learn to love the library

I was always the, “I can only do homework with sound in the background, I can do homework in bed where I’m comfortable” girl. However, I have done WAY better work getting into my focused zone at the library. Everything takes about half the time to complete, and those hours can be used on the gym, getting drinks, sleeping. Find a nice comfortable area at a library or common area, focus, and give it a genuine shot (a couple times). I think you will be surprised how much faster you’ll get things done.

8. Do something by yourself. 

It is easy to stick with friends you know but there is so much to be gained from experiencing something away rom the people most like you. Gain new perspectives and get comfortable with being uncomfortable, because as you move through college, you will benefit from being able to put yourself out there, and at times you will have to put yourself out there. Your friends are a security blanket just like your phone is. You will become more aware of who you are and what you like when you do not have your friends or phone around to comfort or influence you.

9. Enjoy your campus while you have it

Go outside. Go to the bar. Go to the mom and pop breakfast places. See the ins and outs of the town. College goes by faster than you can imagine, and to get the most out of it you need to open yourself to what the town has to offer. I did not explore these places nearly enough my first two years and I for sure regret it. Try everything you can a couple times! 

10. HAVE FUN

Simple as that. Do well in class and focus, but these are going to be some of the best years of your life. Don’t drown yourself in stress. 

[caseysprogress]

2018 Resolutions

1. Exercise more: when I was a junior in high school I fell off the exercise wagon and have become unhappy with my own body. At the beginning of this school year I was running every day and going to ultimate practice, but I severely injured myself and am still dealing with the repercussions. My goal is not to run a mile every day or something. My goal is to do some form of exercise five days a week with maybe a bonus one more. I don’t like using equipment, but I am planning on posting the workouts that I complete. If I’m really into this whole blogging thing, maybe I’ll talk about how it makes me feel and what I found out about form. (Important to note I’m no health professional and everything I post is completely 100% not professional and probably wrong). While exercising I am also going to work hard to not get injured again by having more control over my body (hopefully)

2.) Become more skilled at ultimate frisbee: I am by no means a natural. When I started I could hardly hold a frisbee right and even now I am still not good at reading the field or keeping my pace, not being able to play since October hasn’t helped either. I know I will not be good by the end of this year, but I do know that I can improve my skill set. Next semester I will not skip a practice unless 100% necessary. I will be less shy about asking questions. I will push myself as hard as I can in a way that is healthy. Most of all I want to understand the rules better and be able to read the field better. Even if I cannot keep up with my teammates I will be able to understand what they are doing

3.) Eat Healthier: This one has less explanation. I didn’t eat very well during tech week or the times during finals and I’ve fallen off the band wagon. Better portion control. Eat until content not bursting. More vegetables less carbs. I’m not going to count calories because I know I won’t stick to it

4.) More organized academically: I was really good at this at the beginning of the year but it kind of fell apart. I need to use my planner. I will write my professors office hours and go to them when I’m confused. I will write down not just when my assignment is due, but when I should work on it. Instead of working on one thing for hours until it is done, I will split my time and start assignments earlier. I will make a study group with people in my classes. I will take neater notes. I have a hard time writing, and if it persists to be a problem I will talk to Student Accesitbilty Services. I will keep my folders organized by using them more carefully and not just throwing things around.

5.) More social: I go to parties, but I need to be social besides that. I use that I’ve been studying all day as an excuse to not eat dinner with people or not going out and watching a movie or playing a board game. That needs to stop. I will not make friends that way. I will try to be more open with people and spend time with people more. But I will also know that I have my limits and it’s okay to be by myself sometimes

6.) I will be a better friend: I will talk less about myself and ask more about my friends’ lives. I will always remember what is going on in their lives. I will initiate conversation and not be frustrated when they don’t respond (as much)

7.) Learn very basic piano: I just need to do something that is only for me and I learned very little last semester and it made me happy.

While I write these Resolutions as if they are solid, I know not all of them (or any Of them) will be kept, but if I have the list I might keep them

Cheers to 2018!

#2018 #2018 resolutions

[jmww67-blog]

“Five Ways to Parent an Extreme Child Through Elementary School”

Parenting is messy and hard. Teaching is messy and hard. Both are exhausting beyond words. So this is a list from a teacher who is also the parent of a child with invisible disabilities that will help to educate educators and prepare parents for what parenting our children through public education might look like.

5. Build your village. Words don’t do this step justice. This is the most important thing you can do to arm yourself for the battle of public schooling children with invisible disabilities.

As parents of children with behavior disorders, we face judgment daily, but there is no glare like the look of an educator who makes you feel that he or she disapproves of your child or your ability to parent them.

Disclaimer: We need to admit that sometimes we take things like this personally when they weren’t intended in that way. I am both an educator and a mother of a child with behavioral disabilities, so I feel compelled to speak for both sides.

I have received daily notes, letters from daycare, calls to my work, referrals from the bus driver, and seen weeks of sad faces or heated notes in my son’s planner. They all have one thing in common: When I read them, it made me angry, hurt my feelings, or made me feel defeated, but it always made me defensive of my son.

I would think: “They just don’t understand.” “They can’t expect him to behave like all of the other kids!” “They are just nit-picking him.”

Regardless of how I might feel, until we can afford for one of us to stay home and to homeschool our son, or to send him to a private school (which will not be in the foreseeable future), we must be able to remain calm and keep the peace with his educators.

To do this, we must build our village. We must find people with whom we can connect with and reach out to—someone we can text at 7 a.m. when my son just threw his shoe, at 3 p.m. because he was kicked off the bus again, or at 10 p.m. when he screams in a voice straight from the nether realms, “You are the stupidest mommy I have ever known!” You need someone who hears you, someone who gets you, someone who lives your reality.

So when you get the fourth note from your child’s teacher saying that Sally couldn’t keep her hands to herself and she had to move her clothespin down for talking out of turn or moving during carpet time, you can call your fellow villagers and scream, “This is insane! Do they really expect her to be able to sit through a 30-minute story time!? Who can even do that!?”

4. Prepare for war. Parenting is an ugly job. It is food spills and dirty diapers and weird smells in your car. It is messy hair and a questionable number of days in a row without showering. It is carpooling and sports practices, homework and packing lunches. All of that is exhausting in a way that people who aren’t parents will never truly understand.

When you add to that the endless medication adjustments, calls to specialists, visits to new doctors in hopes for different results, IEP and case study meetings with schools, and scouring the shelves of multiple stores to find old packaging because my sensory processing disorder child refuses to eat the blueberry cereal bars he has eaten daily for two years because he swears that the new packaging makes it taste different—it can seem completely impossible.

Battling a teacher, a bus driver, a PTA mom, a guidance counselor, a school system will not come easy. There will be haters. There always are.

There will be parents who don’t know our children and who are unforgiving when our son hits their son on the playground because he was reacting to them being in their face and he couldn’t articulate the way it made him feel. They couldn’t process it fast enough to tell the teacher. They acted on their feelings out of impulse, and we weren’t there to intervene.

3. Understand that you won’t always be…understood. This one is painful. Truly. I can sit here and type these words knowing that this afternoon something will happen with my son that will cause me to go into a panic, get defensive, or lose control and lash out in anger at him. No one will fully understand what that feels like and, for that, I should be grateful.

Not every parent is cut out for our job. The children with whom we have been entrusted to raise—the ones who make us crazy, break our hearts, bruise our skin, and dent our walls—these are not children meant for just any run- of-the-mill parent.

Parenting is the hardest job you will ever have, but these kids….are, well, a special treat. Some moments they are the sweetest angels and you are reminded why you would do anything for them. But all that can change in a second. So we shouldn’t expect others to understand our journey, because it isn’t theirs to take.

The teachers try to maintain growing class sizes, battle issues each child brings in from home, and teach kids who are all on different levels of learning—usually all while outperforming their previous test scores and keeping a safe environment and impressing the other teachers with their Pinterest-perfect room décor. I know. It is brutal.

When we are met with the disapproving glance of other parents, the tired teacher, the principal whose mind is still in the meeting she just attended, or the guidance counselor who doesn’t really have time to counsel because he has to balance testing schedules with class schedules and credits and parent complaints, maybe it is us who should try to be understanding.

Please know that this comes from a mother who sat, unable to speak through sobs, while she showed the behavior chart to guidance counselors, teachers, and a principal where red pen had recorded four pages of physical outbursts from my son…over only two weeks. That did not include angry outbursts or refusal to comply on the basis of, “Oh, well, it’s a Tuesday.” This was only what he had done when his behavior escalated and became physical. I was crying. My hand holding the papers shook as the educators on the other side of the table told me that my son did not qualify for an IEP, a 504, or special accommodations. I felt utterly hopeless and as if they just did not understand.

You’re right. They don’t understand. And that is OK. But we must move on to step number two.

2. Keep fighting. For us, this battle will never end. So now that you’ve built your village and prepared for battle, get the armor out because you’re going to need it.

When people tell you that they cannot accommodate your daughter, you find another way.

When the teacher says she can’t give different work to your child, only extra work if they need to be challenged, you ask someone else.

When the school officials say they don’t offer a gifted program until third grade and your son is in kindergarten, you continue to go up the ladder until someone will hear you.

When the bus driver writes your child up again for not sitting still when his bus ride is an hour long and he can’t have his medicine until 3 o’clock, you calmly try to explain your situation. If they don’t listen, you go to the principal, the transportation manager, and whoever else will listen.

When I tell you to prepare for war, I certainly hope you won’t need the armor, but I’ve used mine many times and my child is only five.

Use your village so you don’t bust up in the school like an episode of Jerry Springer. Let your villagers calm you down, let you vent, and encourage you before you take the crazy train to the school board office. You laugh now, but the day will come!

Don’t stop fighting. Many times, especially while our children are very young, we are their only voice. Keep fighting for them. Our children need to know that we are their biggest advocates.

1. Breathe.You will cry in meetings. It is inevitable. At least it is for me, because that is what I do when I am overwhelmed and angry and can’t just flip out like I want to do.

In order for me to survive, I need to understand that, while it may feel like they just have no clue about my child or they are personally attacking my ability to parent him, they are (in most cases) sincerely trying to do the best they can while following school policies and procedures.

As a teacher, I can tell you that what is best for the individual child doesn’t always follow the handbook. What this means for me as the parent of a child with multiple behavioral disabilities, a sensory disability, and who is also academically gifted, is that I have to breathe a lot. Sometimes it is because I don’t feel truly heard by Briggs’s school, but usually it is because my husband and I are forced to make a decision without knowing for certain if it is the right choice for him.

We were told to consider skipping him a grade or even two. I laughed. I mean, this is the kindergartner who just de-pants himself at a birthday party for comfort and you think he can handle his life with eight-year-olds!? No ma’am. But, academically, we do fight an uphill battle, because when he is bored he acts out, so he must remain challenged.

So, breathe. It won’t always make sense, but if we act out like our children do, it won’t solve anything. You know, like we tell them when they are on the brink of a complete loss of insanity?

1A. Don’t be afraid to try what no one else will. What works for other children is unlikely to work for our kids. So, while Legos are a great mind activity for our son, they are also the source of many a meltdown because a piece that is nearly invisible to the human eye just won’t fit quite how he wants it. So the bucket goes flying and a barrage of tiny blocks that seem to be made of shrapnel rain down from the ceiling.

Some kids can read independently and sit quietly at their desks; others may be able to play educational games on a tablet or keep their hands in their laps while sitting criss-cross applesauce during circle time. Those children are not my son.

Don’t be afraid to try what seems different or weird. Most days, my kid eats dinner standing up. My son sleeps a lot of nights on the hardwood floor, he rolls his shorts up to lengths only known by men on the golf course over 70. And when he needs to calm himself, he punches a punching bag and hits his head on the couch cushions. I no longer question his process. We roll with what works at the time.

This road is long.  Public education for children with invisible disabilities may be ugly, and it may get messy, but I can assure you that if you build your village, you ready yourself for battle, you understand that you might not always be understood, you never stop fighting, and you remind yourself to breathe, that we will all get through this and our children will be the stronger for our efforts.

https://www.additudemag.com/parenting-extreme-adhd-ld-elementary-public-school/

#antibullying #childrenwithdisabilities #childrensrights #cyberbullying #fape #dailydoseoflaw

[heliosfinance]

5 Skills Every College Student Must Develop To Be Successful

Even though the world is constantly moving at a pace faster than light, there are fundamental skills that will never go out of fashion when it comes to thriving as a person.

Of course, college is one of the top places in your life where the words “thrive”  and “successful” have a lot of weight.

In today’s post, we outline 5 skills every college student needs to develop in order to be successful both on campus and long after you have graduated. 

As few years ago I wrote an article for Forbes on the two traits that employers want from college graduates. Those traits haven't changed, but to be successful, you need a bit more.

1. Time Management Skills

Contrary to popular opinion, the best timer managers were not born with planners, calendars and alarm clocks in their hands.

We all agree that there are certain personality types who are more prone to be organized when it comes to time but by and large, time management is a skill anybody can learn.

Time management is not about filling every single hour with your day with an activity.

It is mindfully scheduling classes, activities and appointments on your calendar so that you achieve your academic goals while remaining relaxed enough to also enjoy the social aspects of college life.

A great example of how to master time management is given in Cal Newport’s book, How to Become A Straight A Student.

Here is a summary of what he suggests when it comes to time management.

There are only 2 things you need when it comes to managing your time : a list of all your activities (curricular and extra-curricular) for the semester and a calendar/planner.

Once you determine what deadlines fall on what dates for assignments that are due in your classes, you can then begin to place each of these items on your calendar.

Once you have a “big picture” look of where everything falls on your calendar, it is now time to organize those activities by a daily schedule with assigned times.

Now that you know what your daily schedule looks like for each day of the week, it is up to you to follow the activities you have set forth to the “t” so you are not scrambling to complete assignments the night before it is due.

A really handy time management skill for completing tasks - especially if it is not a class but a self-driven activity like completing homework assignments - is to set a timer for 45 minutes to 1 hour and focus on working on the assignment only during that time. During this 45-60 minute time frame, you will turn off social media, your cell phone or minimize as many distractions around you as possible. This period is for deep work. When your timer goes off, you are free to get up, stretch, take a walk or take a break before you. Do this for 2-3 hour time blocks each day and you will be amazed at how far ahead you will be come semester’s end!

2. Study Skills

When it comes to study skills, it is best to know what works for YOU. One style of study does not make a person a better student than the other. So play to your strengths. If you are a highly visual person, can you create simple illustrations that allow break down complex ideas ? If you are the note-taking kind, do you need to go back and read the assigned portions of the textbook, making your own notes/notecards ? Once you determine that best way to study for you, use your scheduled study time to focus on those learning strengths. A point here about studying for subjects you don’t like but have to take : it is always helpful to find a way to make it fun. If you are having trouble, definitely take advantage of your professor’s office hours to get their help on topics that are especially confusing for you and their advice on how you can do better in their class.

3. Research Skills

You can escape many things in college.

Writing college papers is not one of them - regardless of your major.

Writing an A+ paper means you need to have stellar research skills.

Here are a 5  tips to help you master the art of researching for a college paper.

Find your sources. These days you can find anything by simply entering a Google search. However for more specific areas of study, you might want to use databases like PubMed, EbscoHost or Google Scholar. Another excellent place to find your sources and more databases are your school library’s online directory.

Gather your most relevant sources and skim them for important details, charts , numbers etc.

Summarize your findings from your sources. If you need to interview people, make sure to bring an audio recorder or use your cell phone voice recording function so you can summarize your interview later.

Be clear on the citation format your professor is asking for on your paper (e.g APA style versus MLA style) so that you don’t do all the work in one way and have to change it around at the end

Most college libraries will give you free access to citation software like EndNote or Write-N-Cite. With both of these, you can save your references in your personalized database and easily click a button to cite them as you write - saves you time on typing.

Now that you have done your research, it is time to put it all together using your own words to discuss the findings you made.

4. Social/Networking Skills

College life would not be balanced without a social life.

Even the most introverted of us all need to interact with other people once in awhile.

Like time management, while being social comes naturally to some people, the good news is that it is a very learnable skill.

And honestly, the relationships you build throughout your college life can have an immense impact on your life after college for years to come.

In his book The Like Switch, by Jack Schafer , a former FBI agent talks about “friend signals” that can get people, even strangers, talking to you and liking you.

A geniune sime as you near a person you would like to talk to

A slight raising of the eyebrow when you first see somehow

A slight jutting out of the chin towards the person you would like to engage with

Listening to and reflecting back what your new friends is saying by using phrases like that acknowledge that you are listening

Another handy acronym for upping your social skills is F.O.R.M.

Over centuries, it has been found that if you are able to converse with people about their Family, Occupation, Recreational activities and/or their Motivations, those people are more likely to see you as a trusted friend.

5. Communication Skills

Last but not least, communication skills are a must for any college student.

Most people get by in their lives without talking to anyone. Ever.

We completely understand.

However, when the time comes for attending your first job interview, giving a class presentation or even casually talking in social situations, like we described in the point above, it does not hurt to learn a thing or two about communicating efficiently.

A few tips to help you on your way if communication is a problem for you:

Be aware of your own body language. If you are interviewing for a job and your shoulders are droopy, it can easily be read as disinterest and could cost you the job.

Be aware of other people’s body language. This will help you avoid many awkward situations. For instance, if you are talking to someone and you realize that their hand are folded across their chest, they keep looking down and their feet are pointed towards the exit, this is a clear indication that this person wants out of the conversation. End the conversation politely and move on.

Tell a story. Storytelling has always been an engaging format of conversation. Have some great stories that are appropriate for the situation ? Tell them. Even during interviews, this can work if you spin it well.

Ask questions that indicate you are listening to the other person.

Put away distractions and give the other person your full attention as they speak.

Closing Thoughts

College should be an all-around great experience. The skills mentioned in this post will allow you to master your academics, form life-long mutually beneficial relationships/friendships and succeed even after college. Are they any other skills we should have included? Let us know about those in the comments.

The post 5 Skills Every College Student Must Develop To Be Successful appeared first on The College Investor.

5 Skills Every College Student Must Develop To Be Successful published first on http://ift.tt/2ljLF4B

[heliosfinance]

5 Skills Every College Student Must Develop To Be Successful

Even though the world is constantly moving at a pace faster than light, there are fundamental skills that will never go out of fashion when it comes to thriving as a person.

Of course, college is one of the top places in your life where the words “thrive”  and “successful” have a lot of weight.

In today’s post, we outline 5 skills every college student needs to develop in order to be successful both on campus and long after you have graduated. 

As few years ago I wrote an article for Forbes on the two traits that employers want from college graduates. Those traits haven't changed, but to be successful, you need a bit more.

1. Time Management Skills

Contrary to popular opinion, the best timer managers were not born with planners, calendars and alarm clocks in their hands.

We all agree that there are certain personality types who are more prone to be organized when it comes to time but by and large, time management is a skill anybody can learn.

Time management is not about filling every single hour with your day with an activity.

It is mindfully scheduling classes, activities and appointments on your calendar so that you achieve your academic goals while remaining relaxed enough to also enjoy the social aspects of college life.

A great example of how to master time management is given in Cal Newport’s book, How to Become A Straight A Student.

Here is a summary of what he suggests when it comes to time management.

There are only 2 things you need when it comes to managing your time : a list of all your activities (curricular and extra-curricular) for the semester and a calendar/planner.

Once you determine what deadlines fall on what dates for assignments that are due in your classes, you can then begin to place each of these items on your calendar.

Once you have a “big picture” look of where everything falls on your calendar, it is now time to organize those activities by a daily schedule with assigned times.

Now that you know what your daily schedule looks like for each day of the week, it is up to you to follow the activities you have set forth to the “t” so you are not scrambling to complete assignments the night before it is due.

A really handy time management skill for completing tasks - especially if it is not a class but a self-driven activity like completing homework assignments - is to set a timer for 45 minutes to 1 hour and focus on working on the assignment only during that time. During this 45-60 minute time frame, you will turn off social media, your cell phone or minimize as many distractions around you as possible. This period is for deep work. When your timer goes off, you are free to get up, stretch, take a walk or take a break before you. Do this for 2-3 hour time blocks each day and you will be amazed at how far ahead you will be come semester’s end!

2. Study Skills

When it comes to study skills, it is best to know what works for YOU. One style of study does not make a person a better student than the other. So play to your strengths. If you are a highly visual person, can you create simple illustrations that allow break down complex ideas ? If you are the note-taking kind, do you need to go back and read the assigned portions of the textbook, making your own notes/notecards ? Once you determine that best way to study for you, use your scheduled study time to focus on those learning strengths. A point here about studying for subjects you don’t like but have to take : it is always helpful to find a way to make it fun. If you are having trouble, definitely take advantage of your professor’s office hours to get their help on topics that are especially confusing for you and their advice on how you can do better in their class.

3. Research Skills

You can escape many things in college.

Writing college papers is not one of them - regardless of your major.

Writing an A+ paper means you need to have stellar research skills.

Here are a 5  tips to help you master the art of researching for a college paper.

Find your sources. These days you can find anything by simply entering a Google search. However for more specific areas of study, you might want to use databases like PubMed, EbscoHost or Google Scholar. Another excellent place to find your sources and more databases are your school library’s online directory.

Gather your most relevant sources and skim them for important details, charts , numbers etc.

Summarize your findings from your sources. If you need to interview people, make sure to bring an audio recorder or use your cell phone voice recording function so you can summarize your interview later.

Be clear on the citation format your professor is asking for on your paper (e.g APA style versus MLA style) so that you don’t do all the work in one way and have to change it around at the end

Most college libraries will give you free access to citation software like EndNote or Write-N-Cite. With both of these, you can save your references in your personalized database and easily click a button to cite them as you write - saves you time on typing.

Now that you have done your research, it is time to put it all together using your own words to discuss the findings you made.

4. Social/Networking Skills

College life would not be balanced without a social life.

Even the most introverted of us all need to interact with other people once in awhile.

Like time management, while being social comes naturally to some people, the good news is that it is a very learnable skill.

And honestly, the relationships you build throughout your college life can have an immense impact on your life after college for years to come.

In his book The Like Switch, by Jack Schafer , a former FBI agent talks about “friend signals” that can get people, even strangers, talking to you and liking you.

A geniune sime as you near a person you would like to talk to

A slight raising of the eyebrow when you first see somehow

A slight jutting out of the chin towards the person you would like to engage with

Listening to and reflecting back what your new friends is saying by using phrases like that acknowledge that you are listening

Another handy acronym for upping your social skills is F.O.R.M.

Over centuries, it has been found that if you are able to converse with people about their Family, Occupation, Recreational activities and/or their Motivations, those people are more likely to see you as a trusted friend.

5. Communication Skills

Last but not least, communication skills are a must for any college student.

Most people get by in their lives without talking to anyone. Ever.

We completely understand.

However, when the time comes for attending your first job interview, giving a class presentation or even casually talking in social situations, like we described in the point above, it does not hurt to learn a thing or two about communicating efficiently.

A few tips to help you on your way if communication is a problem for you:

Be aware of your own body language. If you are interviewing for a job and your shoulders are droopy, it can easily be read as disinterest and could cost you the job.

Be aware of other people’s body language. This will help you avoid many awkward situations. For instance, if you are talking to someone and you realize that their hand are folded across their chest, they keep looking down and their feet are pointed towards the exit, this is a clear indication that this person wants out of the conversation. End the conversation politely and move on.

Tell a story. Storytelling has always been an engaging format of conversation. Have some great stories that are appropriate for the situation ? Tell them. Even during interviews, this can work if you spin it well.

Ask questions that indicate you are listening to the other person.

Put away distractions and give the other person your full attention as they speak.

Closing Thoughts

College should be an all-around great experience. The skills mentioned in this post will allow you to master your academics, form life-long mutually beneficial relationships/friendships and succeed even after college. Are they any other skills we should have included? Let us know about those in the comments.

The post 5 Skills Every College Student Must Develop To Be Successful appeared first on The College Investor.

5 Skills Every College Student Must Develop To Be Successful published first on http://ift.tt/2ljLF4B

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5 Skills Every College Student Must Develop To Be Successful

Even though the world is constantly moving at a pace faster than light, there are fundamental skills that will never go out of fashion when it comes to thriving as a person.

Of course, college is one of the top places in your life where the words “thrive”  and “successful” have a lot of weight.

In today’s post, we outline 5 skills every college student needs to develop in order to be successful both on campus and long after you have graduated. 

As few years ago I wrote an article for Forbes on the two traits that employers want from college graduates. Those traits haven't changed, but to be successful, you need a bit more.

1. Time Management Skills

Contrary to popular opinion, the best timer managers were not born with planners, calendars and alarm clocks in their hands.

We all agree that there are certain personality types who are more prone to be organized when it comes to time but by and large, time management is a skill anybody can learn.

Time management is not about filling every single hour with your day with an activity.

It is mindfully scheduling classes, activities and appointments on your calendar so that you achieve your academic goals while remaining relaxed enough to also enjoy the social aspects of college life.

A great example of how to master time management is given in Cal Newport’s book, How to Become A Straight A Student.

Here is a summary of what he suggests when it comes to time management.

There are only 2 things you need when it comes to managing your time : a list of all your activities (curricular and extra-curricular) for the semester and a calendar/planner.

Once you determine what deadlines fall on what dates for assignments that are due in your classes, you can then begin to place each of these items on your calendar.

Once you have a “big picture” look of where everything falls on your calendar, it is now time to organize those activities by a daily schedule with assigned times.

Now that you know what your daily schedule looks like for each day of the week, it is up to you to follow the activities you have set forth to the “t” so you are not scrambling to complete assignments the night before it is due.

A really handy time management skill for completing tasks - especially if it is not a class but a self-driven activity like completing homework assignments - is to set a timer for 45 minutes to 1 hour and focus on working on the assignment only during that time. During this 45-60 minute time frame, you will turn off social media, your cell phone or minimize as many distractions around you as possible. This period is for deep work. When your timer goes off, you are free to get up, stretch, take a walk or take a break before you. Do this for 2-3 hour time blocks each day and you will be amazed at how far ahead you will be come semester’s end!

2. Study Skills

When it comes to study skills, it is best to know what works for YOU. One style of study does not make a person a better student than the other. So play to your strengths. If you are a highly visual person, can you create simple illustrations that allow break down complex ideas ? If you are the note-taking kind, do you need to go back and read the assigned portions of the textbook, making your own notes/notecards ? Once you determine that best way to study for you, use your scheduled study time to focus on those learning strengths. A point here about studying for subjects you don’t like but have to take : it is always helpful to find a way to make it fun. If you are having trouble, definitely take advantage of your professor’s office hours to get their help on topics that are especially confusing for you and their advice on how you can do better in their class.

3. Research Skills

You can escape many things in college.

Writing college papers is not one of them - regardless of your major.

Writing an A+ paper means you need to have stellar research skills.

Here are a 5  tips to help you master the art of researching for a college paper.

Find your sources. These days you can find anything by simply entering a Google search. However for more specific areas of study, you might want to use databases like PubMed, EbscoHost or Google Scholar. Another excellent place to find your sources and more databases are your school library’s online directory.

Gather your most relevant sources and skim them for important details, charts , numbers etc.

Summarize your findings from your sources. If you need to interview people, make sure to bring an audio recorder or use your cell phone voice recording function so you can summarize your interview later.

Be clear on the citation format your professor is asking for on your paper (e.g APA style versus MLA style) so that you don’t do all the work in one way and have to change it around at the end

Most college libraries will give you free access to citation software like EndNote or Write-N-Cite. With both of these, you can save your references in your personalized database and easily click a button to cite them as you write - saves you time on typing.

Now that you have done your research, it is time to put it all together using your own words to discuss the findings you made.

4. Social/Networking Skills

College life would not be balanced without a social life.

Even the most introverted of us all need to interact with other people once in awhile.

Like time management, while being social comes naturally to some people, the good news is that it is a very learnable skill.

And honestly, the relationships you build throughout your college life can have an immense impact on your life after college for years to come.

In his book The Like Switch, by Jack Schafer , a former FBI agent talks about “friend signals” that can get people, even strangers, talking to you and liking you.

A geniune sime as you near a person you would like to talk to

A slight raising of the eyebrow when you first see somehow

A slight jutting out of the chin towards the person you would like to engage with

Listening to and reflecting back what your new friends is saying by using phrases like that acknowledge that you are listening

Another handy acronym for upping your social skills is F.O.R.M.

Over centuries, it has been found that if you are able to converse with people about their Family, Occupation, Recreational activities and/or their Motivations, those people are more likely to see you as a trusted friend.

5. Communication Skills

Last but not least, communication skills are a must for any college student.

Most people get by in their lives without talking to anyone. Ever.

We completely understand.

However, when the time comes for attending your first job interview, giving a class presentation or even casually talking in social situations, like we described in the point above, it does not hurt to learn a thing or two about communicating efficiently.

A few tips to help you on your way if communication is a problem for you:

Be aware of your own body language. If you are interviewing for a job and your shoulders are droopy, it can easily be read as disinterest and could cost you the job.

Be aware of other people’s body language. This will help you avoid many awkward situations. For instance, if you are talking to someone and you realize that their hand are folded across their chest, they keep looking down and their feet are pointed towards the exit, this is a clear indication that this person wants out of the conversation. End the conversation politely and move on.

Tell a story. Storytelling has always been an engaging format of conversation. Have some great stories that are appropriate for the situation ? Tell them. Even during interviews, this can work if you spin it well.

Ask questions that indicate you are listening to the other person.

Put away distractions and give the other person your full attention as they speak.

Closing Thoughts

College should be an all-around great experience. The skills mentioned in this post will allow you to master your academics, form life-long mutually beneficial relationships/friendships and succeed even after college. Are they any other skills we should have included? Let us know about those in the comments.

The post 5 Skills Every College Student Must Develop To Be Successful appeared first on The College Investor.

5 Skills Every College Student Must Develop To Be Successful published first on http://ift.tt/2ljLF4B