Transitioning from High School to College: Study Tips
By: Anna Brown
The transition from high school to college can be a difficult time for college students. It’s a time to make new friends, explore new hobbies, and… learn new study habits! Studying in high school is very different from studying in college. The classes are a lot harder and require a lot more in order to understand the lessons that are being taught. In my time here, I’ve discovered some great tips and places to get the best out of my studying experience. Hopefully these will come in handy in time for finals!
1. Go to Class!
Though this seems like a given, many people begin to slack off in college and not go to class. Like the book, going to class is a key asset to passing the course. Many times, the professor will give hints and help that is not provided in the book or in the notes, so it is absolutely necessary to attend.
2. Attend the Study Sessions!
Many classes have a review day or a study session that is mandatory, but it is incredibly helpful if you go. It can provide insight into how the test will be set up and what all will be on it. It is also a great time to ask questions.
3. Get a Tutor!
Take advantage of the many tutors throughout the school that are looking to help you. In high school, a tutor was for the people that were failing, but in college, tutors are for the people that are passing. Any person that goes out of their way to learn will do exceptionally better, and that means working outside of class with a tutor.
4. Test New Ways of Learning!
When I first came to UT Knox, I studied independently, but I soon learned that it was better for me to learn in study groups. Some people may think they learn best in study groups but realize they learn best by themselves. You just have to explore and figure out what fits you best.
5.Find Places Near You to Study!
There are lots of amazing places to study in your hall alone. I enjoy studying in the Rec room with a few friends because it’s very relaxing and open whether there are people in there or not. The room is also better to take breaks in because you can play pool or ping-pong to pass the time.
6. Find Places Away from Your Dorm to Study!
Sometimes events will come up that stop you from studying in your hall. In these cases, make sure you know of other good places to study. If you’re looking for a quiet location, Hodges Library is a great place to go. If you need some background noise, then the first floor of the Student Union would be more your style.
7. Read the Book!
The book is a key asset in the class. You will not do well if you do not read it. In high school, there were many classes where people did not have to read and could do okay. College is very different. Many books contain almost exact questions that are on the exam or vital information for passing.
8. Watch Videos While You Eat!
I often find myself scrolling through Instagram while I’m eating lunch or dinner, but it’s the perfect time to study up. Websites like Khan Academy and Crash Course offer incredible videos that go into depth about many subjects. They help you understand the subject and typically stay under 10 minutes long, which is perfect to watch while eating a meal or snack.
9. Take Advantage of Office Hours!
Professors have office hours which allow you to go in and talk with them about any questions or problems you may have. This is a great opportunity to let the teacher know who you are and let you get the help you need. Many of my own problems during the course have been solved simply by talking to my professors during their office hours.
10. Create Your Own Study Guides
I do this for all of my tests. It’s a great way to refresh your memory on the materials studied earlier in the semester or test period. You can also pull all the study guides you make and compile them into one for finals. A great trick is to add all the questions you missed on tests and make sure you know how to work them out.