As the second semester of the 2015-2016 school year commences at Catawba College, many students are asking themselves, “how can I be more successful this time around?” While we all know that grades fluctuate throughout the year, it is important to remember that it is never too late to turn your GPA around and get your spring started on the right foot. Here are a few steps that may help you do that:

Step #1: Address your issues – No, there is no such thing as a perfect student, only ones with their heads floating a little bit higher in the sea of responsibility. Identifying that you have had problems in the past is the first step to improving your grades and your overall college experience. To do this, think about the problems you had last semester whether it be work ethic, time management, or personal issues, determine what deterred you from doing the best you could. Sometimes, this step is hard because, come on, who does NOT want to watch The Walking Dead…for three hours straight.
Step #2: Be self-aware – When you take the time to determine your issues, you can work on them more effectively. Do this by changing the behaviors of the previous semester (or semesters for some of you). For example, if you are a student with a significant other, good for you! Now quit making goo goo eyes and hit the books buddy because the only thing you’ll be looking at is academic probation! My point being, when confronted with the issue you are having or the behavior needed to be changed, be firm with yourself and avoid the distractions UNTIL your work is done!
Step # 3: Organize – Now that we’ve gotten your life somewhat together, let’s talk about organization. A major problem with students is that they begin the semester with strong goals but fall off the wagon due to missed dates and assignments – all because they did not stay organized. Make sure that you keep your papers, utensils, books, and other resources in order and in a place where you can find them when you need them. This is in order to avoid the, “Oh no, I can’t find it” heart attack that nearly every student experiences from time to time. The problem is, experiencing that too many times may actually kill you – just saying.
Step #4: Be stern but geez man, lighten up! – It always stinks to struggle in a class but the important thing to remember is to keep yourself motivated. Continue to use positive affirmations such as, “I can do this” or “I will make a good grade on this test.” I can promise you all this method really does work (why would I sell you a product I would not use?). Understanding that mistakes happen and you will not always get the A+ times infinity on your exams is a great thing to remember. Work hard but remember to enjoy the ride at the same time. You only get to be a college student once – unless you go to graduate school…then good luck.