1 answer
Lauren
Student
1
Question
Asked
218 views
What can I do to prepare for the academic workload to be a freshman in the college of arts and sciences in the fall ?
College Freshman-Global Studies Major
Login to comment
1 answer
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1461
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Lauren, congrats on starting this exciting new chapter in your academic journey! I’m so excited for you girl.
Now, starting college, especially as a Global Studies major, is going to be an adventure. And I get it, it can ofc feel overwhelming thinking about the academic workload that’s coming your way. But don’t stress it cause, there are definitely things you can do to prepare and ease into it .
So the first important thing I had tell you is, Master Time Management! College life is all about balance. You’ll have more freedom but also more responsibility, so it’s key to get comfy with managing your time. Use a planner (digital or paper, whatever works) to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and study time. Building this habit now will save you from that "oh no, how did I miss this paper?" panic. Because trust me I have seen my colleagues, friends and even seniors complain about it.
Remember that, Global Studies can involve a ton of reading, so try to get used to it now. Start reading articles or books related to your major (or just some random stuff to build stamina) so that when your syllabus starts, you’re already in the zone. And then writing.... Yup, you’ll be doing a lot of that too. Brush up on writing papers by reading a few well-written ones, so you can understand how to structure your arguments and ideas, to be ahead of every question that might be tossed at you.
Thirdly and also important is that you should know, College lectures are different from high school. You might have a faster-paced lecture with lots of info, so finding a note-taking system that works for you is key. Some students love digital tools like OneNote or Notion, while others prefer the good ol' pen-and-paper method like myself, its easier to just scribble and then clear out things into a presentation or something later on. So just test out a few ways and stick with the one that feels easiest for you.
Most students during this college think asking questions isn't important or you know just google up the answer, but nope, Learn to Ask Questions: No question is too small. Seriously, if you’re ever unsure about something in class, don’t hesitate to ask. And if you don’t get it the first time, keep asking! Professors are usually pretty open to helping out, and it shows you’re engaged. Also, professors love those who are asking a lot. Now, this also helps you to build connections which is something I also would suggest too. Whether it’s with classmates, professors, or even advisors, building relationships will make your life so much easier in college. Trust me, having someone to study with or just vent to can help when things get crazy. Plus, you never know when you might need advice or even a recommendation down the line.
So now, when you get to college, Get Familiar with Your Resources right away. Know where the library, tutoring centers, and other campus resources are. These places are gold mines when you're in need of help or a quiet place to focus. Its the first thing do, running around wildly. And when you get your syllabi, check out the course schedule — getting a heads-up on what's coming helps you stay ahead of the lessons and ....game.
Yep Lauren, I know, I know—college is all about studying and getting stuff done. Now I am sure excitement is burning in you but remember, burnout is real! Make sure you set aside time to do something fun, whether that’s hanging with friends, watching Netflix, or taking a walk. Your brain will thank you for the break! I myself have my routine of workouts daily and spending time to do a small volunteering around the neighbourhood which helps me connect with others, plus it has its advantages, I usually get a free snack to take or a pizza to join so just enjoy your time while you study, don't take things hard but try to enjoy the moment.
Lastly, don't let failures stop you and don't let the thought of future to keep burning you out. You are asking and you are living the moment, so enjoy every bit of it. College is gonna be a new door for you and a learning curve but you are gonna crush it, I am excited to see you succeed. You're definitely starting strong so don’t be afraid to reach out when you need help. You’ve got this Lauren, stay blessed.
Now, starting college, especially as a Global Studies major, is going to be an adventure. And I get it, it can ofc feel overwhelming thinking about the academic workload that’s coming your way. But don’t stress it cause, there are definitely things you can do to prepare and ease into it .
So the first important thing I had tell you is, Master Time Management! College life is all about balance. You’ll have more freedom but also more responsibility, so it’s key to get comfy with managing your time. Use a planner (digital or paper, whatever works) to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and study time. Building this habit now will save you from that "oh no, how did I miss this paper?" panic. Because trust me I have seen my colleagues, friends and even seniors complain about it.
Remember that, Global Studies can involve a ton of reading, so try to get used to it now. Start reading articles or books related to your major (or just some random stuff to build stamina) so that when your syllabus starts, you’re already in the zone. And then writing.... Yup, you’ll be doing a lot of that too. Brush up on writing papers by reading a few well-written ones, so you can understand how to structure your arguments and ideas, to be ahead of every question that might be tossed at you.
Thirdly and also important is that you should know, College lectures are different from high school. You might have a faster-paced lecture with lots of info, so finding a note-taking system that works for you is key. Some students love digital tools like OneNote or Notion, while others prefer the good ol' pen-and-paper method like myself, its easier to just scribble and then clear out things into a presentation or something later on. So just test out a few ways and stick with the one that feels easiest for you.
Most students during this college think asking questions isn't important or you know just google up the answer, but nope, Learn to Ask Questions: No question is too small. Seriously, if you’re ever unsure about something in class, don’t hesitate to ask. And if you don’t get it the first time, keep asking! Professors are usually pretty open to helping out, and it shows you’re engaged. Also, professors love those who are asking a lot. Now, this also helps you to build connections which is something I also would suggest too. Whether it’s with classmates, professors, or even advisors, building relationships will make your life so much easier in college. Trust me, having someone to study with or just vent to can help when things get crazy. Plus, you never know when you might need advice or even a recommendation down the line.
So now, when you get to college, Get Familiar with Your Resources right away. Know where the library, tutoring centers, and other campus resources are. These places are gold mines when you're in need of help or a quiet place to focus. Its the first thing do, running around wildly. And when you get your syllabi, check out the course schedule — getting a heads-up on what's coming helps you stay ahead of the lessons and ....game.
Yep Lauren, I know, I know—college is all about studying and getting stuff done. Now I am sure excitement is burning in you but remember, burnout is real! Make sure you set aside time to do something fun, whether that’s hanging with friends, watching Netflix, or taking a walk. Your brain will thank you for the break! I myself have my routine of workouts daily and spending time to do a small volunteering around the neighbourhood which helps me connect with others, plus it has its advantages, I usually get a free snack to take or a pizza to join so just enjoy your time while you study, don't take things hard but try to enjoy the moment.
Lastly, don't let failures stop you and don't let the thought of future to keep burning you out. You are asking and you are living the moment, so enjoy every bit of it. College is gonna be a new door for you and a learning curve but you are gonna crush it, I am excited to see you succeed. You're definitely starting strong so don’t be afraid to reach out when you need help. You’ve got this Lauren, stay blessed.