Chiming in: what to know about preparing for a new semester

By Rakiyah Lenon | Co-editor in chief 

For one of my first on-campus classes here at Augusta University, I entered the doors of University Hall. I was a few minutes early, and I made it to the right floor and classroom. To my surprise, the class began without me. To make matters more confusing, I did not recognize any of the students from the previous week. Neither did I recognize the professor. I was in the wrong classroom.

Thankfully, I regrouped and checked my schedule. The classroom I should have been was a few doors down. Only then was I with the right students, right professor and in the right room.

The transition from high school to a new college, or a new semester in general, especially during the current global situation is no easy task. However, there are a few tips that can help everyone start on the right foot.

Dr. Lorraine Evans, director of the Augusta University’s Academic Success Center, provided some information that new and returning students might find useful.

In regards to the returning back to the classroom, Evans said, “It will be an adjustment for students and faculty alike. Cut yourself some slack and create a plan to reduce stress.”

Evans shared a common mistake students make when starting a new semester.

“…For many students we see time management as an issue. It’s easy to procrastinate when it comes to homework…,” she said.

Evans also stated that when students procrastinate in buying the materials needed for class, they might find themselves facing issues.

“Too many students hold off on buying the textbook and this can cause problems. If, for some reason, you cannot buy the book immediately, talk to your professor and see if one is in the library,” said Evans.

She added that keeping up with the amount of work lessens the stress.

Evans then mentioned how students could benefit from tutoring throughout their time in college as well.

“We have a great group of students who work as peer coaches that can help anyone with new strategies. These students have been in the same place as new students so understand some of the challenges they face and how they feel,” said Evans.

She explained that though students might initially feel embarrassed about asking for help, asking is a part of learning in order to grow academically.

“The students who ask questions and seek out help are the ones who do well. Students are here to learn, and we are here to facilitate their learning,” Evans said.

Students will also find that writing college papers are a key part of success in college. 

Dr. Candis Bond, director of Augusta University’s Writing Center, shared some insight on what students should expect about writing.

“Writing in college can be a difficult transition because you're introduced to so many new disciplines and each has their own ways of writing,” she said.

She explained how writing is a foundational concept to learn in college.

 “Writing is central to all academic disciplines, and it's also a way to engage with content, so students tend to be assigned more writing in college than they may be used to,” said Bond.

Bond stated how the Writing Center is a beneficial resource for all students to utilize.  

“The Writing Center is also a great space to learn more about all kinds of writing.” She added, “It’s also important to know that the Writing Center is for everyone. We work with writers of all ability levels and majors at any stage in their academic journey.”

Bond also expressed that keeping a healthy mindset is crucial throughout time spent in college.

“Make sure to prioritize your mental health and general well-being alongside your academics. Schedule time for relaxing and social events. You can't do well academically if you aren't doing well mentally,” she said.

It might not occur overnight, but with time and a little preparedness, the new environment of college can become a pleasant and beneficial learning experience.

The Academic Success Center is located in room UH156 of University Hall on the Summerville Campus. Students can stop by or schedule an appointment.

Students can also visit https://www.augusta.edu/academicsuccess/ or email asc@augusta.edu for more information.

The Writing Center has locations on both the Summerville at Allgood Hall in room N204 and Health Sciences at Greenblatt Library in room 2101. In-person and online appointments are available. 

Students can go to https://www.augusta.edu/pamplin/writingcenter/ to learn more.

Email Rakiyah Lenon @rlenon@augusta.edu