THE 5P'S TO PERFORM YOUR BEST IN CLASS
DEBORAH ODAGBODO
Pay attention. Do you just come to class for attendance? Why come to class if you are going to fall asleep or stroll off into fantasyland? Oftentimes students go to class and do not pay attention. Being physically present in class is not adequate and will not help you in the long run. Turning off all devices such as your cellphone and laptop will help eliminate possible distractions. If you are someone who finds it hard to stay mentally present, the next tip is sure to help.
Participate. Participating in class is not just for the extroverts, teacher’s pets or overachievers. Participating is for everyone and is not limited to the classroom. For example, Hallimah asks a question in class and the professor isn’t quite sure about the answer. Jonny, a student who is uncomfortable when speaking in front of others, could research the question, find out the answer and email the professor. This shows the professor that Jonny is actively involved in the classroom despite the fact that he does not raise his hands to answer questions.
Positive Mindset. It is vital to have a good perspective about every aspect of any course. Understanding the reasoning behind a professor’s assignments or teaching style could be a game changer. Relating your current courses to your future goals may help in gaining a fresher outlook on things.
Prepare. Benjamin Franklin said, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” Some students boast about their abilities to “wing it”. While this trait is quite handy and may be convenient in certain situations, a prepared student is always a better student. Being prepared is not only essential for exams, but it is to be done for every class. Spending a little time before attending class to prepare ahead of the teacher allows you to ask more informed questions, gain a deeper understanding and maximize your class time.
Practice. Athletes practice how they play and so should every student! Practice allows your brain to connect what you are learning in the classroom to your everyday life. This connection will aid you in retaining the information for tests and more importantly your career. Do not feel discouraged if your practice is not yielding the excellent grades you so desire. Remember, practice makes improvement and constant improvement makes perfection!
Participate. Participating in class is not just for the extroverts, teacher’s pets or overachievers. Participating is for everyone and is not limited to the classroom. For example, Hallimah asks a question in class and the professor isn’t quite sure about the answer. Jonny, a student who is uncomfortable when speaking in front of others, could research the question, find out the answer and email the professor. This shows the professor that Jonny is actively involved in the classroom despite the fact that he does not raise his hands to answer questions.
Positive Mindset. It is vital to have a good perspective about every aspect of any course. Understanding the reasoning behind a professor’s assignments or teaching style could be a game changer. Relating your current courses to your future goals may help in gaining a fresher outlook on things.
Prepare. Benjamin Franklin said, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” Some students boast about their abilities to “wing it”. While this trait is quite handy and may be convenient in certain situations, a prepared student is always a better student. Being prepared is not only essential for exams, but it is to be done for every class. Spending a little time before attending class to prepare ahead of the teacher allows you to ask more informed questions, gain a deeper understanding and maximize your class time.
Practice. Athletes practice how they play and so should every student! Practice allows your brain to connect what you are learning in the classroom to your everyday life. This connection will aid you in retaining the information for tests and more importantly your career. Do not feel discouraged if your practice is not yielding the excellent grades you so desire. Remember, practice makes improvement and constant improvement makes perfection!