At the beginning the new year and the new school term, your students are probably reflecting on the ways they want to change and grow in 2014. Some of their aspirations may be personal, but they likely have a few academically oriented goals and ambitions on their list of resolutions as well.
Below, we’ve listed a few resolutions that students typically have at the beginning of the year, along with some tips that can help them turn their intentions into actions. If you know any students who are contemplating some of these goals, lifestyle changes, and new habits, share this article with them!
“I want to live a more balanced lifestyle.”
Do any of these scenarios resonate with you? Get some ideas that will help you make strides towards a and a more positive outlook.
- Feeling tense? Learn how to de-stress.
- Need extra energy? Be sure you’re maintaining your physical wellness and that you get needed rest. (You can even get a workout in your dorm room!)
- Wondering how to stretch your available funds? Review some suggestions for saving money in college and making (and following) a balanced budget.
- Wishing there were a few more hours in the day? Learn some time-management techniques, such as how to create a schedule, how to stop procrastinating, and how to eliminate time-wasters.
- Find yourself in “all work, no play” mode? Expand your social circle and learn how to get to know others on campus.
- Hoping to get your things in order? Here’s one way to start: discover a simple way to keep all your coursework organized on your computer. (Another tip? Use the cloud!)
“I want to improve my study habits.”
Sharpen your skills with a few of these suggestions.
- If you need more focus, here are our recommendations for staying engaged in your classes. (Another tip: taking great notes in class forces you to concentrate on what the instructor is saying—and bonus: you end up with a handy study tool!)
- New to online learning? Discover how to make the most of your online class experience, and learn the attributes that contribute to an online learner’s success.
- Make the most of your study time by reading your textbook effectively and efficiently.
- Improve your performance on tests with our study tips and strategies for taking tests and essay examinations.
- Want to have your voice heard in class? These tips tell you how to become an active participant in class discussions.
- Don’t study on your own all the time; “study buddies” can help you get through the class. Here, we share how to start a study group.
- If you still need some assistance, here’s how to to let your instructor know you’re struggling in class.
“I want to make sure I’m on track towards graduation.”
It’s always smart to make sure you’re on course to success!
- Know where you can go for help. Identify your on-campus services and make use of them—that’s what they’re there for!
- If you’re early on in the college process, you may still need to pick your major. This can be an exciting process… but it doesn’t need to be a stressful one! Read how to choose a major that fits your career goals.
- Make a plan to reach your goals. Map out your progress, and set a strategy for college success.
- Don’t forget: your college catalog can prove to be a great help in the process.
“I need to prepare myself for the job market.”
Even if you’re still in school for another term or two, it’s wise to think ahead to the job-search process.
- Make a great impression before you walk through the door. Learn how to write a résumé, and be sure your “online brand,” as represented in your social media profiles, helps you look professional to recruiters and hiring managers.
- Now get ready for those interviews! Brush up on how to prepare for a job interview and how to ensure your interview goes well.
- Working as an intern? Learn how to make the most of your internship.
- It’s never too early to start polishing your professional skills. Clear and respectful communication is key; be sure you know how to use e-mail in a professional manner.
- Want to get a leg up on your career, even if graduation is still a way off? Read some tips for planning for your career today.
Any other tips for students that you’d like to share? Any topics you’d like for us to address this year at the Cengage Learning Blog? Write to us in the comments section below.
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