College Happenings

We’ve probably all had the experience of a professor with a distinct political outlook or other strong opinions and beliefs. And, while your work is supposed to be judged on its merit, in terms of displaying a mastery of methods, materials and concepts, the fact is that that’s not always the case. Sometimes a dilemma presents itself – write with integrity, according to your understanding and beliefs, or write for the grade, slanting your paper or essay towards the position the professor is most likely to be supportive of.

It would be nice to say that intellectual integrity should always reign, but on a practical scale, that may not always be possible. Sometimes, you need the grade. Decisions like this need to be made on a case-by-case basis. But, it’s also important to make choices you can live with. If you have to take a controversial position, one that runs completely counter to that of the person who will be grading your work, make sure that your presentation is as flawless as possible. That way, you increase the chance of being judged solely on the academic merit of your work.

The college course workload can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Getting the most out of your study time can help you to manage your course work more efficiently, which can help to reduce college stress. Here are 5 ways to increase what you get out of the study time you invest:

1. Try to schedule your most challenging studying for when you are most alert, rather than fighting your natural rhythms. You’ll accomplish more with less effort.
2. Collect what you need before you start – course materials, food, something to drink, etc. – so you don’t have the distraction of having to get up to get stuff.
3. Find your learning style, and capitalize on it. Some people are more visually oriented, reading works. Others need to be more actively engaged, such as through creating outlines, using computer software, or working with a focused study partner.
4. Build upon your knowledge daily, rather a lump sum sort of studying. This enhances the amount you’ll actually retain, you’ll be less likely have to restudy old materials in order to grasp the new.
5. Be firm with yourself and others. Put your full effort in while you are “on the clock” and you’ll get a lot more done than if you are answering the door, the phone, e-mail or instant messages.