Early in the semester is the best time to pick up good study habits and the best people to get advice from are the people who distribute the grades. Professors understand how hard it is for students to balance out all their academics with the social aspect of college, and a few of the professors at Quinnipiac have agreed to enlighten students with some useful tips.

Dr. Brady, chairperson of the Biomedical Sciences, said that sometimes it Is the most obvious things like attending class.

“It might sound silly, but a lot of the students don’t.” Having taught for 23 years, he’s picked up tips for students who are having trouble in class.

“Seek help immediately. Don’t wait for a problem to snowball,” he said.

He went on to discuss how in the past students wait all semester to ask about something they did not understand the first week.

“If students don’t understand the basics, how will they understand more complex things?” Dr. Brady said.

He could not stress enough how important it is to seek help right away.

“Not next week, not next month, right now,” he said.

He recommends reading ahead to be prepared for topics that will be discussed, ask questions, and go to class.

“It’s a pretty simple formula,” said Dr. Brady.

Different subjects require different study skills. For example, in order to do better at production or writing class, a student should practice to improve the skills they have. However, classes such as science and math, require memorization of tables and practice of equations until a student can do them flawlessly.

Professor Timothy Dansdill, assistant professor of English, offered his advice.

Professor Dansdill said, “Always put academia first,” and get away from distractions that could be considered entertainment, such as cell phone, instant messaging, and the internet.

Professor Dansdill put emphasis on the fact that even if a student has poor study skills when they enter college, they can improve.

“If that person has the will to change their poor study skills and organization skills, then they can,” he said.

Professor Dansdill also feels that doing all the reading and assignments before socializing will help your grades.

Professor Dansdill notices that in each class there are different types of students. Some students are very eager to learn, whereas others are not interested. He feels that it is the combination of the various types of students that make classes interesting. He can also tell whether or not a student is really putting effort into getting good grades. He finds that improvement in revisions, and good eye contact in discussing missed classes or a late assignment shows if the student is enthusiastic about the class and learning in general.

Professor Barbara Rudolph, a nursing professor, said, “Students have to put personal life aside and prioritize their requirements.”

She too stresses the importance of organization and time management. Most importantly, Professor Rudolph said the essential components are “Proper nutrition, exercise, rest, while maintaining a great sense of humor, balancing life with a mixture of studying and free time”

Attending class, talking with you professor, keeping up with your assignments, and even using other resources such as The Learning Center are all important. These tips can be helpful for students to achieve and maintain a high grade point average.