Starting on the Right Foot

Every time we begin something new, many of us promise, vow, or resolve to do certain things.  When we have the opportunity to do something again, or similarly, we often say we'll do whatever "it" is differently this time around.  So what are you going to do differently this term?

We all have things to work on, so it's unlikely your answer is "Nothing."  Perhaps you didn't have the best GPA and you want to make better grades.  You could have earned a 4.0 last semester, but there are social/professional things you could have done.  Maybe joining a student organization is your goal.  No matter what it is, break your goal down into small, achievable tasks and get to work.

In the last post, I mentioned working on these specific, measurable tasks.  Try it; it works.  Not only does it break down a larger goal into smaller pieces, it also gives you things you can check off as you get them done.     Try it . . . and keep me posted.  I'll check back in a couple of weeks. 

New Year, New Term!

Happy New Year!  Believe it or not, it's already 2013.  Every year seems to go by quicker than the last for me . . . but this blog isn't about me. (I have another one for that.)  This blog is about you.  So let's talk about you.

With or without the urging from my last post, hopefully you have begun to think about how to make your Spring Semester as good and productive as possible.  When you return to school, it will be time to implement your plan.  People make resolutions all the time, but frequently do not follow though past a few weeks.  Some good advice I've heard before and was reminded of  today is to be specific with your resolutions; the same goes for your plan.  For example, if you want to get a better GPA, identify specific goals that will help you get there: I will study 2 hours per night; I will go to office hours at least once per week and ask relevant questions when there; I will rewrite my class notes.  Each of these specific actions can be measured and collectively will contribute to your higher GPA goal.

Right now, most of you are taking general classes as freshman that most first-year students take.  As you matriculate, your courses will be more challenging and you will most likely have to adjust to keep pace, but start now by making plans and you won't be caught so off guard when your major classes begin to kick in.

Whatever happened last semester was last semester.  You have established a record as a college student.  It may be what you want and expected or you may have to make some adjustments. Either way, you  made it through and have some lessons you've learned from that first term.  You can make this term what you want it to be.  Own it . . . this education belongs to you, and you only!