Study Guide for GS 1001 Quiz (10 pt) January 13, 2009

Dos and Donts of Successful College Students

Sources: SPU Faculty and On Course, pp. 18-21 Dos 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

Ask questions and participate Take notes that you understand Attend class Pay attention (turn off cell phones!) Come prepared Sit where you can see and hear the instructor Tell instructor if you are having trouble understanding material/ way they are teaching material Get to know instructor (go to office hours!) Read applicable text before class so you know what to expect Eat well and get enough sleep

On Course 1. Read your college catalogue 2. See your advisor 3. Understand prerequisites 4. Complete your general education requirements 5. Choose a major wisely 6. Take a realistic load 7. Attend the first day of class 8. Sit in class where you can focus on learning 9. Study the syllabus 10. Buy required course books and supplies as soon as possible 11. Introduce yourself to one or more classmates and exchange phone numbers and email addresses 12. Inform your instructor before an absence 13. If you arrive late, slip in quietly 14. Ask questions 15. To hold an extended conversation with your instructors, make an appointment during their office hours 16. Get involved in campus life 17. Know the importance of your Grade Point Average (GPA) 18. Know how to compute your GPA 19. If you stop attending a class, withdraw officially 20. Talk to your instructor before withdrawing 21. Keep a file of important documents Donts or Common Mistakes Students Make 1. Not attending class

2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

Not taking responsibility for themselves Procrastinating Not asking questions when something is unclear Not spending enough time studying (for every 1 hour in class/credit=2 hours of study) Not getting help soon enough Not taking notes Not answering questions fully on homework and tests Not completing assignments and being up- to-date on material Being passive

On Course 1. Dont pack up your books or put on your coat until the class is over 2. After an absence, dont ask your instructor Did I miss anything? 3. Dont wear headphones 4. Dont let a cell phone or pager disturb the class 5. Dont talk with a neighbor while the instructor or a classmate is talking 6. Dont make distracting noises in class (e.g. clicking pen, drumming fingers, popping gum, etc)