Getting the Most Out of Your Course

Instructors: Share this guide with your students

Getting the Most Out of Your Course*

From A Guide to Student Success: Part 2 

The syllabus

On the first day, the professor is going to give you the owner’s manual to the class: the syllabus. This document will give you all the information you need for the class. In general, the first bit of information you see on the syllabus is your professor’s contact information. This information generally includes the professor’s email address, office hours, office location (if applicable), and availability.

You need to read all of the syllabus. The syllabus is like your road map. You will be able to find exactly which textbook to obtain (never assume an older edition is going to be “good enough”) and any other course requirements. Additionally, the syllabus will include course policies, course materials, a course calendar, and grading and assessment policies.

When it comes to professors, there are a few things to remember:

• Be respectful when you email. This is a professional communication. Start the email with “Dear Professor ______.”
• When you do email, make sure it does not sound like a text message. You are conducting a formal business-like exchange.
• Use correct grammar and punctuation.
• Always let professors know what class you are in by typing it in the subject header, so that they can appropriately answer your questions—most professors teach multiple classes.
• Allow for at least 24–48 hours for a response from your professor. Allow a bit more time if you email on a Friday or the weekend.
• Ask questions. If you have questions, other students likely do too!
• If you have a few questions, consider making an appointment with your professor to meet during office hours. Having a conversation with your professor might answer many questions in one sitting; and, as most of us know, sometimes answers can be lost in translation in an email.
• Just a reminder—teachers love to teach—and they appreciate enthusiastic students. So, make an appointment with your professors and say hello.

Helpful tip: Procrastination is not your friend

Note in your calendar when you should start each assignment and when it is due. That will make it easier to keep on track (in other words, put it in your calendar RIGHT NOW). Multiple research studies have found that 80 to 95 percent of college students put off doing their work and studying on “a regular basis.” Procrastination is not your friend, so start projects and assignments as early as possible. Life happens, and you do not want to turn in work late. Plan to start working on written work at least two weeks in advance if assignments are available to you that far in advance.

Also add to your calendar the dates for all quizzes and exams. A general rule of thumb is to start studying for quizzes and exams one week in advance. Never, ever cram. And get good sleep. Many students color-code their schedules to keep all of their classes organized. This might sound like a lot of work, but you will be glad you did it!

Next - Part 3: Understanding Your Course Materials

*Sources: