Improving Your Academic Performance
Assignments
READ Your Syllabus
At Registration, you may purchase a coursepack for your first module(s). This document will outline what you may expect from the course and what will be expected of you. It is vital that you read each coursepack and use it as a reference throughout the module. Some professors may not go over the coursepack with you or remind you of due dates. Most professors assume you will read it and meet its deadlines (unless changes are announced in class). Plan to read it before the module begins and ask for clarification of any assignments or deadlines you do not understand.
Make Major Projects Your Highest PRIORITY in Scheduling
Do not assume that you can make up a missed assignment. Review the coursepack and adjust your schedule to make sure you can complete all assignments on time. If an emergency arises, contact the professor as soon as possible and explain your circumstances.
Read Assignments BEFORE They Are Due
Many professors do not cover readings in class. Rather, they use them as a basis for discussion or as background for a lecture related to the reading. If you have not read the assigned material, you will have more difficulty following the class discussion. If you have questions, ask for explanations during class time, or make an appointment to discuss your questions privately.
Class Sessions
Get Acquainted with Other Students and Form a Study Group
Sometimes it is helpful to study with others. If you must miss a class, your group can help you catch up. It is your responsibility, not the professor's, to obtain any notes, information, and handouts you may have missed.
Be on Time to Class and Stay FOCUSED
One of the most important ways you can reduce your outside study time is to be there mentally when class is in session. Paying attention in class helps you prepare for assignments and understand the material more effectively.
Treat Your Professor with Respect
Use the title "professor" and her/his last name when addressing your instructor. If a professor prefers that you call her/him something else, s/he will let you know.
Appointments
Respect Professor's Office Hours/Availability
A professor's out-of-class availability is usually found in the coursepack or can be obtained through the office. Many times you can arrange a special appointment right after class.
Think Ahead While Working with Your Academic Counselor
Be sure you hold onto your Assessment Sheet and refer to it periodically. Plan a rough schedule of when you will take the courses you still need in order to graduate. Make sure both you and your Academic Counselor have copies of this schedule. When deadlines approach (i.e. Graduation Petition, community college registration, Graduation), make an advising appointment at least a week in advance and have a plan prepared when you go in for your appointment.
Make an Appointment to See the Professor ASAP, If You Receive a Low or Unsatisfactory Grade on an Assignment
Do not wait until the class is over; this should be addressed immediately, providing yourself time to improve your grade. Explain that you want to do better and ask the professor to review the paper with you to help you understand your mistakes. If the problem is an exam, perhaps you can privately discuss the test with the professor. To help you prepare more effectively for the next assignment, contact other students to see if you can study with them.