Whether you are taking online or in-person classes, do you have the right materials with you?
- Writing Utensils. Most college students have opted to type their notes on their laptop or electronically save their notes via writing on their iPads. However, it is always important to keep one or two #2 pencils on you. Why? If you are taking in-person classes, your professors might give you a pop-quiz, exam, or any other assignment that requires recording your answers on a scantron. To ensure your work is properly graded, you will need to use a #2 pencil. Having different color pens and highlighters might also be helpful if you are a visual learner who learns better through taking color-coordinated notes.
- Class Schedule. Most students are not completely familiar with their class schedules until at least the second week of classes. While you are adjusting to this new routine, keep a copy of your class schedule on you. There can be a printed copy at the front of your binder, a screenshot saved in your phone’s camera roll, or the schedule saved as your phone’s lock screen. Why not do all three though? You usually have your phone in-hand, so you would not have to shuffle through your materials to find the printed version. However, the printed copy would be useful if your phone was to run out of battery.
- Wear a Watch. I know you are probably wondering why you need a watch when your phone already serves the purpose of one. However, like previously stated, your phone could unexpectedly run out of battery and/or your professors might expect you to have your phone turned off while in class. A watch will be useful in these instances to keep track of how much time you have left in class for a quiz or exam, and to know how long you can stay after class to talk to a professor before having to get to your next class on time!
- Bring a folder. Instead of just throwing everything into your bookbag, neatly place them into designated folders! (You could have a colored folder for each of your courses.) This will help keep you organized and keep your papers straight instead of bent and torn. Your professors will also appreciate this when you have to turn-in those papers as part of your assignments.
- Bring a planner. Do you have an ODU planner? If not, you can probably find one somewhere on campus for FREE! A planner is essential in being organized and practicing good time management skills. During classes, your professors will tell you upcoming assignment due dates and expected dates for quizzes and exams. You can quickly write these dates into your planner to keep an accurate account of everything you have to do! You can download a FREE calendar on your phone to input these dates as well. As always, having more copies (a physical and electronic copy) of something is better than just relying on one.
I hope you have a great semester!
