Student Success Secrets

Of the many challenges facing college students, learning how to study effectively is at the top of the list.

Lisa Kasper, the Student Success coordinator, offers some advice about how to study effectively.

"You really need to be organized," said Kasper.

She advised using a planner, a cell phone or computer to keep track not only of assignments and tests, but also of readings.

"If you see you have two hours free, mark in your reading assignment," said Kasper. "That way, you can spread all of your work out."

She also recommends that if a student begins to have trouble in a certain class to get help right away, either from a classmate who is doing well in the class or from the tutors available on campus.

If a student has trouble with taking notes quickly during the lecture, Kasper advises that they take notes on the reading beforehand, leaving space for additional information or examples the professor uses during the lecture.

When it comes to studying for tests, she advises that students get creative.
"Just creating anything is a good thing," said Kasper. "Anything other than just reading over your notes."

Some of her suggestions include making up a practice test.
"Try and anticipate what the professor will put on the test," said Kasper.

This way, the student can focus his studying on what he got wrong on the practice test.

Other suggestions include making flash cards, diagrams, tables and acronyms. These study tools can be adapted to any subject.

Another option, along with these suggestions, is to use the websites that come with most textbooks. These websites often feature practice quizzes and study activities.

"Studying on the book's website for a hard subject makes it easier because the whole book is online and I can look anything up," said sophomore Amy Balcomb.

For students who are already doing well in classes, Kasper says that the best way to learn is to explain the material to another.
Finally, students who feel like they need help can make an appointment with Kasper, to go over what their study strategy is and how they can improve it.
They can also come to the Student Success Center, in Patton Hall and receive help.