1 Expect the UNEXPECTED
It is impossible to predict how you’re going to feel or and change in your first year so try not to set too many expectations. Approach everything with an OPEN MIND and try to embrace change. Be the best you can be, relax and enjoy the ride! (Cohen 21)
#2 Be patient
Don’t expect everything to fall into place immediately. It takes time to adjust to change (Cohen 23).
#3 Get involved (Cohen 24)
Join in, meet new people. Don’t stay at home on facebook/email.
Almost 40% of first years worry about meeting new people – you’re not alone! Be open friendly and receptive to the people around you. Making connections between your life inside and outside class can have a massive impact on your years in University and ultimately lead to a more fulfilling experience.
Bottom Line “Attending college is like attending a live event that has general seating. The ticket gets you inside the venue You have to be the one to make the extra effort to find the place where you can be closest to the action and you’re most comfortable” (Cohen 26).
#4 Ask! (Cohen 27)
You’re not expected to know everything. It is OK to ask. That is the way you learn. You have a person assigned to making your first year easier. Always ask if you’re not sure. Every instructor has office hours when you can visit and speak to them and ask questions about course work – or anything else you’re interested in! Stop by and get to know them. There is a good chance they’re very nice people!
#5 Go to class (Cohen 155)
If you’re here and looking for -paying for - an education why wouldn’t you go to class?? If you don’t go regularly your grades WILL suffer. When you’re in class FOCUS! Don’t be passive. Get involved. Question what you’re hearing. Does it make sense to you? If you can make sense of it you will remember it.
#6 DO the homework
Your instructor has given it to you for a reason.
#7 Take notes
Not many people can retain everything covered in a 1.5 hour lecture without taking notes. It is hard to do a review session before exams without anything to review! Listen for signal statements – ways your instructor is telling you something is important – ‘to summarize’, ‘the most important points to remember are…’ Develop your own shorthand so you can take better notes.
#8 Be organized and manage your time
You’re not in high school anymore. You’re expected to take responsibility for your work. Instructors wont necessarily remind you of deadlines and exam dates other than writing them on the syllabus. It is up to you to be ready. Use an agenda or planner. Anticipate. List, plan and prioritize – what is urgent? What is important? What is neither? So why waste time on it?
#9 Set regular study time
Build time into your routine to review what you covered in class, complete homework and prepare for the next class. You should allow two hours study time for every hour in class. So if you’re taking 5 classes (15 credits) you spend 15 hours a week in class and should be spending 30 hours a week studying. That’s a full time job! (Ellis 79)
Think about starting a study group. Study at the times when you’re at your best. If you’re a morning person study early. Make maximum use of the free hours between classes. Find a study space that is quiet and dedicated to study, (Evans Hall is perfect!) but you can also review what you covered in class when you’re traveling to/from home.
# 10 Review within 24 hours
If you want to improve your chances of retaining information review your notes WITHIN 24 hours of the class. It takes a lot of discipline to get into the habit but it works!
#11 Set good habits THIS semester
Try to find some routines and DON’T PROCRASTINATE. If you get into good routines and habits this first semester they will stick and you will be more successful in your academic career. Make an effort. “Bottom Line: Minimal work + minimal attendance + minimal effort = minimal grades” (Cohen 168).
#12 Use the support services
AUR runs a Math Helpdesk, Writing Centre, and Italian Tutoring service every semester. They’re there to help and support you.
#13 Try the SQ3R reading technique
1. SURVEY the text – scan it and read the headings
2. QUESTION yourself – what do you already know about this subject
3. READ section by section
4. RECITE the main points – in your own words
5. REVIEW the main ideas aloud - why not?? – or in your head
#14 Brainstorm
When you have to start a new project or organize your thoughts on a topic try using a mind map to brainstorm and organize your ideas.
#15 Don’t try to write assignments in one go
When you’re writing an assignment do a draft then put it away for a day. When you come back to it you’ll have more perspective. Make sure you plan well enough that you have time to do this!
#16 Look after your health
It is really important to make sure you get enough sleep, you eat well - including BREAKFAST – and take regular exercise. Your brain is an organ of your body. Give it the best chance!
#17 Take time off
Schedule time off for relaxation. Take regular breaks when studying. Studying for three three-hour sessions is more productive than one nine-hour session.
#18 Check the First Year Seminar page on the AUR Course Management System
…for useful links about how to get around Rome etc.
#19 Speak to Diane
If you get stuck or something is bothering you talk to Diane or send her an email.
#20 Develop your critical thinking skills
Try to think independently and critically about information you receive. Question everything. Does it make sense to you? Develop your own opinions rather than just accepting what others tell you.
#21 Apply for a Work Study position
Working on campus is a great way to make money, meet people and feel more connected to AUR.
#22 Have integrity
As an AUR student you are expected to be a student of integrity. Check the Student Handbook for the Academic Integrity policy.
Works Cited
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Cohen, Harlan. The Naked roommate: And 107 Other Issues You Might Run Into in College. Naperville, Illinois: Sourcebooks, Inc. 2005.
Ellis, Dave. Becoming A Master Student. St, Charles Illinois: Houghton Mifflin Company. 2009
