Welcome back to the start of a new semester! Whether you are a new or returning Buccaneer, we look forward to helping you achieve your goals this term. Here are a few of our best tips for making this your most successful semester yet.
It’s never too early to start developing your plan for success this semester. Once you receive your class syllabi, you may want to map out the entire term in your calendar, paying special attention to major assignments, quizzes, and exams. Once these items are mapped out, you can identify time periods in which you may have several large projects or exams taking place at the same time. Begin preparing for these early, and remember, breaking large projects into smaller pieces makes them easier to manage.
As a Blinn student, you have a wealth of academic resources available to help you in your academic journey. At our campus libraries , you have access to books, DVDs, articles, databases, and a wealth of research tools. At the Learning Centers , you can study, use state-of-the-art computer labs and educational technology, and get one-on-one assistance from Blinn tutors. At Blinn’s Writing Centers , you can access the tools that make your papers shine, and with tutors available online and on campus, you always have access to academic support.
Identify the study habits that work best for your personal learning style. Find the locations and times of day when you can best focus, and set aside time each day when you can study without distraction. Remember that you can always break large assignments into smaller once and work short, frequent study breaks into your schedule. Keep experimenting until you find the study habits that work best for you!
Getting to know someone else in your class not only makes your college experience more enjoyable, but it can also help you succeed. Don’t understand a concept or unsure about something related to class? Ask your friend. Some students thrive in small study groups, and if you have to miss class, your classmate may be willing to share notes.
Didn't do as well as you hoped on an early assignment or exam? Don't let it get you down! Talk to your professor about the material you didn’t understand and ask for guidance regarding how you can improve your grade. If you haven’t already, you may consider the academic resources we mentioned earlier.
A well-rounded Blinn College experience includes more than just academics. Find a student club or organization, or get involved in your Student Government Association. Need to burn off some energy? Visit the student recreation center on the Brenham Campus or participate in intramural sports!
Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Your professors want to see you succeed and they have office hours set aside each week to help you understand the concepts covered in class. Check your class syllabus to find out when they have office hours, and feel free to reach out to them then or via email.
