Successful Semester Plan

Overview

Student Life Skills (SLS) classes help students with time management, setting college goals, and semester planning. Students can utilize the resource below for best practices during an academic semester to achieve success. More detail and tools are provided in SLS1101 – College Success, which is offered every semester as elective credit and in the in-person and online modalities.

Semester Timeline	Tips for Success
Before Classes Start	Review the days and meeting locations for your classes. Look up available tutoring and campus resources. Purchase necessary class textbooks and supplies. Set up your study space.
First Week of Classes	Review your class syllabi to familiarize yourself with course requirements, assignments, and due dates. Create a semester calendar or planner to track important dates, including exams, project deadlines, and extracurricular activities. Set realistic academic and personal goals for the semester, breaking them down into manageable tasks. Attend all classes and introduce yourself to professors and classmates.
Following Weeks	Review course materials and establish a routine for studying and completing assignments. Actively participate in class discussions and engage with course material through note-taking and active listening. Start working on assignments early to avoid last-minute stress and ensure high-quality work. Seek help from professors or academic support services if you encounter any challenges or need clarification on course material. Follow up with professors if you receive progress alerts.
Mid-Point of the Semester	Review course material covered thus far and identify areas that need additional focus or review. Start preparing for midterm exams by organizing study groups, creating study guides, and practicing past exam questions. Prioritize self-care and stress management techniques to maintain well-being during the busy due date period. Set up an appointment with an academic advisor to plan for future semesters.
End of the Semester	Reflect on your midterm performance and identify any areas for improvement. Take advantage of resources such as tutoring services, writing centers, and study skills workshops to enhance your academic skills and performance. Attend review sessions and office hours offered by professors to gain further clarity on course material and receive personalized feedback.
Final Grading Period	Begin reviewing course materials well in advance of final exams to allow for thorough review and practice. Create a study schedule that allocates sufficient time for each subject and prioritizes challenging topics and due dates. Utilize active learning strategies such as flashcards, practice exams, and teaching concepts to peers to reinforce learning. Stay focused and motivated during the final weeks of the semester by maintaining a healthy balance between academics, self-care, and social activities. Review your semester goals and assess your progress towards achieving them. Email professors in a professional tone to set up a meeting during office hours if any questions about your grades arise.