The beginning of a new academic year is a time to gather school supplies and plan for a successful semester. How can students start the semester strong? Read on for 5 tips you can share with your students to support their academic success! 

Tip 1: Set Goals

Set specific, realistic goals with deadlines. Break them down into manageable steps. Write them down for accountability. Seek support. Review, revise, and celebrate progress. Stay focused and motivated on your college journey.

Tip 2: Use A Calendar

Use a paper calendar to note down assignments and due dates, and rely on electronic calendars such as your phone, the college’s Learning Management System, or an online calendar for additional reminders.

Tip 3: Stay Organized

Establish a personal organization system for your papers and documents, whether it’s through 3-ring binders, folders, spiral notebooks, or digital folders like Google Drive. Ensure you review your notes and organize them after each class.

Tip 4: Use The Pomodoro Technique

Divide your reading or class assignments into smaller, manageable chunks, such as 30-minute intervals, and take 5-10 minute breaks in between to maintain focus and avoid fatigue.

Tip 5: Ask For Help

Successful students seek assistance when needed, whether it’s from tutors, teachers, advisors, hallmates, or classmates. Don’t hesitate to ask for help!

Support students to kick-start their school year by sharing these five tips for starting the first semester strong. Encourage students to make use of the resources available to them such as tutoring, academic advisors and the library. And, remind students to prioritize self-care including getting adequate sleep, exercising and eating well. By following these tips, your students will be well-equipped to start college strong!

Looking for more tips for a strong start to the semester? Check out our 25 Strategies for Student Success!

Transforming Student Success: Empowering Institutions With Innovative Educators' Engagement Solutions

For nearly 20 years, Innovative Educators has assisted college leaders to build foundations of success for their students. Institutions have seen student engagement and retention increase as a result of utilizing Go2Orientation, OnlineLingo and StudentLingo to onboard new students. Grounded in best practices for online learning, Innovative Educators student support tools are engaging, interactive, and community-building. Go2Orientation, OnlineLingo and StudentLingo together create a powerful online resource center providing support to students throughout their academic journey.

By Meg Foster
Online Learning & Design Specialist - Consultant
August 14, 2023