Another semester is upon us and we want to achieve that 4.0 GPA. It’s difficult getting a 4.0 and takes a lot of commitment, but there are various ways to achieve that goal
These are some easy ways to ensure progress towards your end goal.Â
- Check Rate my Professor
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I don’t know about you but Rate My Professor has saved me from a potentially bad class. It’s a good way to get a grasp of the professor’s teaching and see what other students have said about them. It’s also a good way to see if they offer extra credit.Â
-  Actually USE Your Planner
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We’re in college and there’s so much we have to do. We have to balance work, classes, meetings and extracurriculars. Writing it down and physically crossing off the items will be more motivating and validating.
It’s one thing to buy a planner and another to use it.
Utilize your planner and tailor it to how you like it. Planners come in different sizes and shapes, so you can find one that personally suits you.Â
- Plan Your Study Schedule
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This semester I need to work on creating a schedule for studying. I definitely want to implement this more for my coursework. There is a program at Sacramento State called Commit to Study that helps students develop study techniques and strategies. I did it last semester and it was an eye-opening experience. Not only did I learn what kind of learner I am but I also learned a few strategies I can start adding in my routine. I used to never write my study schedule and just studied whenever but this semester I have spent more time creating a schedule to optimize my time. This is something I think everyone can benefit from doing especially if you plan on getting that 4.0!
- Form Study Groups
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Ask for at least one person’s phone number or email from every class you have. Life happens and you might miss a class or two, so having at least one friend in your classes to reach out to will come in clutch when you can’t make it. Studying in groups really has helped me achieve the grade I want in my classes. Finding one or two people who have that exact class will help you not fall behind, you’re all able to teach each other things and ask questions as well. Emergencies happen and that student can help you with what was covered in the class and upcoming due dates. Also, if studying in a group isn’t something you like and you feel uncomfortable doing you can always go by the Peer Academic Resource Center on campus. They offer one-on-one tutoring services for various classes. In addition, if PARC isn’t for you there is an alternative solution, and that is Peer Assisted Learning. PAL is a one-unit course students can take where a student is leading the class.
Just remember you aren’t alone and there are resources available to you as students!
- Attend Professor’s Office Hours
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I’m pretty sure you hear this all the time but it really works. You might assume little things about your professor but seeing them when they’re not teaching may give you a different perspective. You see that they are just like you and it’s a persona they put out to ensure they are being taken seriously. Before you assume something next time about your professor visit them and ask a question or two, show your faces. Also, some professors are very flexible and willing to meet outside their office hours to ensure you are learning and receiving the help you need, it is all about communicating. Visiting professors office show the instructor you are willing to learn. They might curve your grade towards the end of the semester, especially if they saw how hardworking you were and how persistent you were for your grades.Â
Try at least one of these life hacks this semester and see how much it impacts your grade in a positive way. Don’t be overwhelmed, start slow and do it one at a time and see it for yourself! Good luck getting that 4.0 Hornets!
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