Tuesday, November 15, 2011

5 Tips on How To Prepare For Class


You might be returning to Dorsey from last module, you may have attended other schools and this is your first module here at Dorsey, or maybe you haven’t attended school since high school and it’s been a long time.

Whatever your situation is, these tips will put you on the success track for your classes!



1.       Review your syllabus and lesson plans.  Your instructors probably covered a lot of information on the first day of class.  Review this information by taking the time to read your syllabus, lesson plans, important dates and any other handouts that were given to you.  Write down any questions you may have regarding this information and ask your instructor about it during the next class period.  You should make it a habit to frequently refer to your syllabus or anything your instructor gave you that outlines what will be covered and when things are due.

2.      Read before class.  Many of the concepts and information in your classes are new to you.  Be sure to read BEFORE class, so that your class time is used to re-enforce what you read ahead of time.  You’d be surprised how much faster you may learn by doing this one simple thing. 

3.      Make sure you have everything you need.  Bring a #2 pencil if you know you have a test on scantron that day.  Bring a pen, paper or a notebook to take notes.  Try using different color highlighters to highlight important information. 

4.      Follow Dorsey policies.  Be in the proper dress code.  Some classes require very specific attire in order to participate in class for the day.  If you are in proper dress code for your program, then you will be sure to be able to participate.  Turn off cell phones, or put them on vibrate.  You should give anyone who needs to contact you, the front desk phone number 586-296-3225 in case of emergency.  Leaving class to take a phone call may cost you taking a tardy or even an absence.  If one of the administrative assistants takes you out of class, you can be excused.  Keep food and drinks out of the classrooms and limited to the common area.  Keep track of your absences and tardies, and be familiar with Dorsey’s attendance policy.  All of our policies are designed to get you into a career mindset.  The sooner you get into that mindset, the more successful you will become as you approach and begin your new career.

5.      Get into the right mindset.  Having a successful career takes planning and your planning starts with school.  Be sure to get enough sleep the night before and try to keep on a consistent schedule to form positive habits.  Eat breakfast or have your morning coffee.  It’s a fact that you learn better when you’re not hungry.  Before walking into class, have a positive attitude and tell yourself you intend to learn something new today.  Activate your brain and ask yourself how you might be able to use what you learned for the day in your career.  Be deliberate in your intentions for the day and don’t just go through the motions.   Being in the right mindset when you get to school can make the difference in setting yourself apart from others in a positive way.

How successful you will be this module is up to you.  Preparing for class, if done correctly, can ensure that you’re on your way to success.  Good luck in the Fall ‘B’ Module! 

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