Guidelines


  • Use your time and energy wisely. Difficult choices will have to be made: daily chores often can wait, while studying cannot.

  • Feeling guilty about the time you spend in classes and studying depletes energy. Believe that you and your goals have worth, and the people with whom you are close will believe that, too.

  • Keep your dreams, but set realistic short-term objectives that don't overwhelm you.

  • Be persistent. At times you may wonder what you are doing and why you are doing it. That's normal.

  • Make friends with classmates. Start small study groups when appropriate. When you make the effort, perceived barriers can disappear and friendships can begin. Exchange phone numbers with classmates in case you can't attend class and need to know what went on.

  • Search for academic advisors supportive of your goals. While this takes time and effort, it is worth the time saved in meeting degree requirements and in obtaining future job references.

  • Spend time with those who support your educational goals. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by the demands of school, especially at finals time. A core of friends and family members who encourage you, can ease this stress.

  • Join organizations that are connected with your major and whose members share similar interest. Participate in campus activities. Attend lectures and concerts. Make an effort to become a part of the university community in more ways than just attending classes.

  • Remember that attending the university need not be all work. It is a time to explore ideas, to engage in philosophical discussions, to meet a diverse population of people whom you would otherwise probably never meet, to be exposed to some of the best dance, music, art, film and theater available and to be in contact with lively, creative minds. There is a multitude of recreational oportunities. So take time to have fun!

  • Get to know the library resource people. They will direct you to references and guides that will save you research time.

  • Try to plan class schedules to avoid crossing the campus several times a day.