It is that time of year again. The novelty of a new school year is wearing off and classes are starting to get a bit more challenging for your student. Your UMBC student might have informed you that he/she is busy studying for midterms and that Bio-Chem class is getting tough. Or you may not have heard from your child in a few days because he/she is spending hours upon hours in the library preparing for next week’s exams. If your student sounds like this, they may be overwhelmed with their academics. You may feel unsure of how to help your child succeed academically. You can breathe deeply knowing that there are resources available for your student and ways to support your child through the semester as courses get more demanding.
In Residential Life we want students to succeed holistically, and this includes academically. Here is some information that can help you to support your student during challenging times in the semester.
1. Do more than just go to class!
Even though attending class plays a huge role in whether or not a student will understand the information, students have to do more than just show up. Read assigned readings before class, take notes on the readings, take notes during class, and review all the material after class has ended. This may help students understand the information better and feel less inclined to pull all-nighters before a big exam. Also, if your student is finding a specific course challenging, encourage your student to meet with the professor outside of class time.
2. Use FREE Resources!!!
UMBC is dedicated to supporting students and helping them succeed academically. UMBC provides plenty of free resources on campus to help student manage their academic course-loads. This includes the Learning Resource Center, the Math Lab, the Writing Center, Supplemental Instruction, Student Support Services and more! Tell your students about these resources; they will definitely help students with their academic demands.
3. Use MORE FREE Resources!!!
The Counseling Center offers confidential individual counseling for stress, anxiety, and personal issues. Additionally, the Counseling Center organizes a number of Skills for Success Workshops during the semester. Workshop topics typically include: time management, procrastination, stress management, and test anxiety. Encourage your students to attend one of the following sessions (all of the following sessions are happening in the Commons, Room 327):
· Motivation – November 20, 2013, 12:00pm-12:45pm
· Get Through Finals! – December 4, 2013, 12:00pm-12:45pm
4. Work those effective time management skills.
It is easy for students to get overwhelmed when it feels like there is too much on their plate. When students develop effective time management strategies, school work may be less overwhelming. Encourage your student to keep track of their assignments, projects, classes, etc. by using a planner, or electronic calendar. Also remind them to check their calendar every day. You can also encourage them to attend the
Jacqueline Wilson
Assistant Director, Residential Life