1. How to be a Successful Student
Guidelines & practices to improve success in the classroom

2. A few practices…
In order to be successful in the classroom there are a few best practices that students should follow
These may seem obvious but without the discipline of your family or teachers reminding you – these will be useful

3. Students perform better when
They get enough sleep the night before
We understand that sleep may not be important for you, but it should be your Number 1 priority
Contributes to your overall health and well-being
Lack of sleep could lead to illness
They eat breakfast & have a well-balanced diet
Helps student stay attentive
Improves overall academic performance and attendance
Eating smaller meals throughout the day is better than eating one or two large meals
Get into a daily routine
Wake up at the same time everyday
Follow a set schedule – class, work, volunteering, shadowing, working out etc.
Helps prioritize your day

4. Attending Class Pros Cons
Being able to learn and view any demonstrations or examples explained by the instructor – that may not be mentioned in the book.
Attending labs give you the opportunity to get hands on experience and “learn by doing”
Attending recitations provoke classroom discussions and expand upon different points of view
Students are able to hear and ask their own questions
Instructors may inform you about any additional office hours or review sessions that may be added at the last minute – to assist you with exams
You also have the opportunity to meet other students to arrange study groups
According to the Association for Psychological Science “Only 8 percent reported that getting class notes from a missed class is as useful as attending class.”
Missing key information that could clarify the textbook material
Feeling “behind, lost and alone”
Underperforming on your exams

5. Get Involved in the Classroom
Students benefit from sitting in the front of the classroom
Staying more attentive
Less distractions
Able to view and hear instructor better
Participating in class discussions
More likely to feel engaged
Help build your relationship with the Instructor

6. Taking detailed notes
Pros
Cons
You’ll thank yourself when it comes time to study for the final when you review your notes and understand them!
In addition to reading through your book – studying your notes will expand upon those practices
Some students are visual learners – taking notes helps them retain information
Having to refer to your book for examples – which could be confusing and less detailed
Whatever you don’t write down – you have a greater chance of forgetting

7. Use a planner (visual or virtual planner)
This helps students prioritize their time
Able to create a timeline for each class
When assignments are due, examination dates, study sessions etc.
Enter instructors specific office hours for any additional help
Helps them retain information
Assists with organization
Recommended course
ESEPSY Individual Learning and Motivation: Strategies for Success in College (3 credit hours)
Teaches learning and motivation strategies to help students manage time, improve grades, and achieve college success.
Use a planner (visual or virtual planner)

8. Benefits of going to Office Hours
Clarification of lectures, materials, exam results etc.
One-on-one interaction to ask your specific questions
Showing dedication and putting forth much effort for success
Getting to know Instructors, faculty or TA’s – could help with networking/research etc.
Benefits of going to Office Hours

9. For your benefit Tracking your grades
It’s important to know where you stand in your current classes so there will be no surprises when you see your final grade
Be sure to check Carmen often for any quiz/exam grades
Here is a helpful tool to help you track your current semester GPA
This is a useful resource to determine how you can raise your GPA (ex: if you want to raise your GPA to a 3.5 – how many credit hours will it take to get you there if you maintain a 3.8 average)

10. Tips for studying Use resources that are available to you
Study in a quiet room with limited distractions
Be sure to schedule short breaks when studying – helps retain information
Course materials should be well-organized
Keep notes, quizzes, mid-terms in chronological order
Develop a plan for study skills – what works best for you?
Studying on your own vs. studying with others
Visual Learners – may create note cards or diagrams
Audio Learners – may record their notes
Use resources that are available to you
Study sessions conducted by TA’s or Instructors
Study guides
Old exams

11. Other helpful resources
Signing up for Carmen notifications
Receive notifications or text message reminders for any of the following:
New discussion post
Dropbox folder due date or end date is 2 days away
Gradebook has been updated
News item updated
Quiz end date is 2 days away

12. In Conclusion Prioritize your time Take care of yourself
Use the resources around you
Instructors
Advisors
TA’s
Tutors
Don’t be afraid to ask questions
Be confident!