Pictured from left to right: Tucker Doty, Lili Blakely, Sophia Tsikouris, and Levi Ekanem
As the new school year begins, it is normal to have feelings of stress and anxiety. This is why it is important to get into a rhythm of starting healthy habits and routines right away. A healthy study routine and some strategies for success will help compress those worried feelings and replace them with confidence. Here are three tips and reminders that will help you succeed this school year!
- Set Goals.
Setting goals is important to measure your progress. These can range from academic to leadership to athletic to personal goals. Using the SMART goals guide can help ensure success. SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Write out the goals you wish to achieve, and keep them somewhere visible- like in a locker or your room, so you can evaluate and see if you are taking the steps to achieve your goals.
For example, “I want to get first honors for the first semester.” This is a SMART goal because it is specific enough to keep you on track for the first two quarters.
- Use a Planner or Calendar.
It is essential to stay organized, keep track of deadlines, and know when homework assignments are due so you can stay on top of school. Writing everything down in a planner or calendar allows you to see your daily, weekly, and long-term assignments. Physically writing it out can help you set your priorities. It’s never a good feeling to show up for class without your homework done, so write it down and cross it off the list as you go. Aviator teacher Mrs. Dlesk says, “Everyone needs to be proactive and not reactive so that they can stay ahead of the game.” She feels the best way to stay organized and not fall behind is to get things done and not wait until the last minute.
- Ask for Help.
If you are ever confused in a class or on homework, the best way to resolve that problem is to visit the teacher. Every Linsly teacher wants to see us succeed. You should not feel embarrassed to see a teacher for help. Email the teacher or reach out during the school day to set up a time to meet. Seeking help from the teacher can help alleviate stress if you’re confused about an assignment or upcoming test. Another way to improve class performance is to find a study partner. Reviewing notes and preparing for a test with someone else can help improve your knowledge of the material. Roman philosopher Seneca said, “While we teach, we learn.” Meaning, when we have to teach others, we actually comprehend the material more.
If help is still needed with a class after these suggestions, students can always reach out to Mrs. Leone or Mrs. Allison to help find a tutor.
These are the best tips to get your year started on the right track. Starting now and being prepared will make the rest of the school year go by so much smoother!
“Energy and persistence conquer all things.” – Benjamin Franklin
