Around now students may be receiving their first college grades on papers, exams and projects.
Sometimes the results are disappointing.
Even students who may have been at the top of their high school class may struggle a bit.
Encourage your student to seek help.
Managing Academic Difficulties
Focus on Study Skills
While self-help books and websites offer helpful tips, BW's Learning Center is probably the best source for getting started. Students can receive free individual or small group assistance. They can gain proficiency in study reading, in preparing for and analyzing tests, in organizing and managing time, and in taking and using class notes. In addition, they can take credit courses in Applied Learning Skills that can help them succeed.
Talk with Professors and Advisors
For many students, the best way to alleviate academic frustrations is to meet with their professors. Contacting professors and setting up appointments to discuss concerns can be proactive in helping students stay on track in their classes.
Likewise, academic advisors can help students with general issues, such as dropping courses, as well as with serious ones, including first-year Mid-Term Warnings about grades.
Visit the Learning Center and Writing Lab
The Learning Center offers free services:
- Peer tutoring for many undergraduate classes
- Drop-in math tutoring
- Intensive math tutoring with a professional math specialist
- Learning and study skills classes and help sessions
- ESL (English as a Second Language) help for international students
- Individual consultations with learning specialists
Students are encouraged to use the Learning Center services during times of challenge as well for purposes that include boosting their grades and/or seeking new study techniques.
The Writing Lab has reference books and handouts. It offers free help in all aspects of writing: grammar, research, essay and report writing, graduate school applications, articles for publication and more.
Work with Other Students
Forming small study groups outside of class to review professor notes and readings and to prepare for exams is an excellent way to form friendships and help with academics.
Get Organized
Because physical orderliness can carry over to academics, students should strive for organization. The BW Bookstore and/or an office supply store has an assortment of bins, desk supplies daily planners and more to help students get started.