Advice for the freshmen

Dear future ISU Freshmen,
I would like to tell you about three things that you’ll need to know in order to survive Illinois State University. First, you’ll need to know some good study tips. The second thing you will need to know is how to use your time wisely. Lastly, but definitely not least you will need to know how to get the proper amount of rest. To be a successful student you need to know how to study, when to study, what to study and where to study. For some people that have come to college this was a difficult task for them, because they never really had to study like college students study. For starters you should study by going over your class notes provided in class that day, everyday. By doing this you are staying on top of your studies and making sure you are following the material from the class. Also, when it is time for a quiz or a test you’ll be prepared. Even on the weekends you should pick one day to skim over your notes from the previous week so you can go into the next week section with background information on the new material. When you are studying your notes, you can read over them along with any other materials your professor provided you with while teaching it to you. If there is something you don’t understand you should email your teacher and or ask a classmate for help. Try to study in a quiet place to make sure you don’t have anything distracting you. You should be comfortable enough to focus but not too comfortable that it’s going to make you fall asleep. Try not to study in your bed because this can be an easy way to fall asleep while reading over your notes especially if they aren’t interesting. Instead you should study at a desk or tale sitting upright. Now, that you know how to study lets move on to managing your time. Time can go by so quick that you’ll always be wondering where the time went. Well you don’t want to be one of those people so just try to keep a set schedule to make sure you’re doing everything you need to. Try to write down your class schedule in a visible place you can view everyday. This way you will be less likely to miss a class. Keep tack of meetings, organizations, and homework assignments you have due by posting them on your calendar or making sticky note reminders. You want to have a routine schedule because it will enable you to keep up with all the things you need to keep up with. Lastly don’t forget to get some sleep. Sometimes college students forget that sleep is as important as eating. When you sleep it allows your body to rest and create energy for when you are awake. You should get at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night. By doing so you will be able to concentrate and be more alert in class as well as in your daily activities. Cramming can be very bad for your body and eventually your health because sleeping is a vital part of life. Every once in awhile you may need to take a nap and you should do it because this will in turn help you.