Many high school graduates are probably in the process of soaking up some rays at the beach or working full time to pay for some of their college expenses.
This is an exciting time for these young men and women. It is essentially another step for them in life, as well as another step closer to their occupational goals.
The majority of pre-college students will be leaving for their college destination in the fall and hopefully will be in the right mind set to get back to the academics.
One question that some college-bound students may ask themselves, or others, pertains to the feeling of being prepared for the journey, meaning the schedule, independence, classes, exams, stress levels and peer pressure. What and how should one ease the feelings of nervousness toward college, specifically the academic portion? Is it even possible to prepare for the first day on campus?
The answer is yes and it is not rocket science, by far.
You probably have gotten your class schedule by now or at least know what courses you will be taking in the fall semester.
The courses that you will be taking are most likely of a general education nature.
Being or becoming organized is key to a student's success on all levels.
I recommend that you have one separate notebook for each course that you are taking. It is important to make sure that each notebook is equipped with a pocket for storing any loose papers and such.
Don't be at a disadvantage, due to losing important papers and notes.
Remember this is college and you will not be "spoon fed" by any means.
The idea of becoming academically responsible has to become a reality at this point in your career. Try to view your college opportunity as your job.
The thought of scheduling can be a fear for many college freshmen.
Things such as course times and course locations can become a huge stress on the first day of college.
You can offset this dramatically by taking the time to transcribe your "confusing college provided course schedule" to a more simplified version.
This method will be much easier to understand on the first day of classes.
You also may want to visit your college before the first day to become more familiar with the building layout.
Now that you have your course schedule and maybe even your textbooks, the work can actually begin. The idea of reviewing your course work before the first day of college is just ludicrous to most students. The dividends that this will pay are phenomenal, to say the least.
You can immediately start to work through each of the chapters by taking notes and answering the review questions at the end of each unit. I am not suggesting that you read each chapter word-for-word or the entire textbook, I am merely suggesting that you try to become familiar with the content.
Our next article will focus on the actual dynamics of the classroom and the development of more efficient and rewarding study techniques.
Cordell is the owner of Excell Tutoring Services, 1020 Arthur Road, Montoursville. He may be reached at 506-9998 or twcordell@gmail.com.
