Continuing the necessary academic and personal adjustments

Week two of the semester is underway! By now, students are getting a feel for just how challenging their course load will be.  A month away from school can cause some students to get out of their regular routines, in addition to having to adjust to a new schedule of courses. 

Here a few ways that students can make the most of their semester and continue to hone the skills necessary to be a successful student:

Determining the best time of day to study

Morning, afternoon or night? Your student will have to make this determination. Cline Library is open late (until 2 AM on Mondays – Thursdays to be exact) to accommodate those night owls, but each person knows when they are best able to process information. 

Finding an adequate study location

An adequate study location is just as important as the time of day.  A student may be able to truly study and do their homework within their residence hall rooms, while others need very quiet spaces to complete such tasks. There are study rooms in the freshmen residence halls that your son/daughter can use as well.  Hours for academic buildings vary, but that is also a suggestion for a study spot. 

Establishing a relationship with the course instructor

There’s no excuse for your student to go all semester without at least introducing themselves to each of their instructors.  It might seem intimidating at first, but establishing communication with an instructor can have lasting benefits.  Talk to your student about making an appointment with their instructor during office hours, especially if they find themselves struggling with course material.

Getting and staying organized

A planner has the potential to be a college student’s best friend! Our memories are not always reliable when it comes to assignment due dates.  Writing test dates down in a planner or organizer can help students plan accordingly and not always feel the need to cram the night before an exam.  A $10 investment now can go a long way! It might even help your student to plan out study times at the beginning of the week, based on other obligations.  

The Student Learning Centers offer other study skills resources for students.  

As always, contact Parent and Family Services with your questions and concerns.  We are here to help you help your student make the most of their experience at Northern Arizona University!