Volume for Students

Welcome to college, welcome to at least four classes with huge textbooks and way too much assigned reading!  If this is how you’re feeling trust me you’re not alone.  There are many ways to handle this huge change from high school and if you want to be successful you’ll choose the right one.

A.         Do not read what the professor expects you to, struggle through your courses, enjoy sleepless nights before tests and maybe get a C in your courses (if you’re lucky). 

B.         Read the text!  Get organized and learn how to manage your time!  Stay calm and make time to study and read so that you won’t become overwhelmed.  Get at least a B and probably an A in your courses.  

If you know B is the right answer you’re on the right path.  If you chose A I wish you luck, but I’m glad I’m not in your shoes!  Those of you on the right path keep reading and I have confidence in the fact that you will do just fine in college. 

How do you get organized and manage your time in college?  It is hard, but it’s possible and it will make a huge difference in your college years!

Step One:  Get a personal calendar that you can take with you to class.  Make sure when you get your course syllabi you right down the due dates and test dates.  Use a different colored pen for each course! 

Step Two:  Write down and set goals that you would like to achieve as a college student.  What are your expectations?  Do you want A’s or are you okay with C’s and D’s?  Do you want to graduate in four or five years or are you on the extended plan?  I suggest you write your most important goals on a piece of paper and post them in your study place.  These will provide motivation when things get overwhelming.

Step Three: Invite friends from class and form study groups.  Some people are motivated by others.  Study groups work best when they are organized with dependable people.  Visit the website below to help you get a study group together. 

http://www.yorku.ca/gcareers/study%20skills/forming_study_groups.htm   

Step Four: Read great information and tips on how to manage your time and how to prioritize.  I have found a great website that is both interactive and informational in regards to time management.  I encourage you to click on the website below and read the important information offered.  This site also allows you to participate in exercises that will help you see where all of your time goes and how and when to get prepared for your upcoming assignments.  This website should be added to your favorites so that you can use the assignment calendar for all of your courses! 

**Awesome Time Management Website!:     http://www.studygs.net/timman.htm

Good luck!  You’ve proved you are motivated and want to be successful in college just by visiting this webpage.  Remember to keep the most important things the most important and carefully manage your time.  With all of these tips handling the large amount of volume will be manageable! 

 - Contributed by Kelley Kaunisto, LTCY 524