Campus Connection

As we all know, starting a new school can be challenging. For one thing, while some people may already be familiar with the area; others may be new to the state. There are those who have come to the campus straight from an undergraduate institution, while others may be coming in from the workforce. Whether or not you fit into any of these categories, there are a few key pieces of advice that will make the transition to professional school smooth and successful.

Get organized. Organization is probably one of the biggest (and hardest) tasks. Keeping a daily and/or weekly planner is extremely helpful in mapping out your day-to-day activities—it will help keep your school time and playtime in perspective. If you have a big exam scheduled, mark it on the calendar in capital letters and circle it with red ink. Or, if you are a technology-savvy individual, use the calendar function in a PDA or cell phone to set alarms to remind you of important events.

Do not procrastinate. This advice isn’t news to anyone over the age of six, but it has special new meaning in professional school. You remember those days of undergraduate cramming when you could postpone studying until the night before then stay up the entire night cramming and still ace the test? Well, I hate to break it to you, but those days are long gone. Something that several students have reportedly found useful (and I’m sure you will have quite a few professors reiterate this to you), is to go over notes right after the lecture. If you make this kind of review a habit, you will not feel as pressured when exam time rolls around.

Get involved with student organizations. Like ice cream flavors and shoes, there are student organizations for every taste. Whether you want to get involved with campus politics or cultural events, there’s something for everyone on campus. Visiting Student Services (located in the Student Center on N. Pine St.) can provide you with information about what the campus has to offer. And even if you don’t find a club to your liking, you can always start your own! The University Student Government Association (USGA) provides annual funding to student groups throughout campus, which can really help get you started. If the shoe fits, wear it!

Take time for “me time.” The first semester can be trying for new students. If you are feeling overwhelmed at anytime, there is nothing wrong with taking a morning, an afternoon or even an entire day to help rejuvenate your mind and body—go for a walk, get a massage, or just veg out in front of the TV for a few hours. After all, while you have to study hard, you shouldn’t be studying 24/7. Always take the time to keep your mental and physical well-being in order.

Get help if things are going downhill. Perhaps one of the most difficult things to do is ask for help, but it is imperative to do so if you feel like you’re on a sinking ship. If the lectures get to be too much to handle or if you do not understand what is going on in class, talk to your professor. There is nothing wrong with asking for help if you need it. Most professors are eager to help students, and you should never hesitate to utilize office hours or email them for additional time.

Get help if things are going downhill: part 2. Sometimes the classroom is not the only place that one needs help. Sometimes just having someone there to talk to is as crucial as a little extra time with the professor. Utilize the resources at the Counseling Center (also located in the Student Center) when an anonymous friend is needed.

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