The new semester has arrived.  You may not want to believe it but soon you’ll be focused on coursework, papers, projects, and lectures.

If you haven’t put much thought into preparing for the semester, the academics team has you covered.  Some preparation prior to the start of classes can make the the semester a whole lot easier.  Here are our suggestions for what you need to know and do to prepare for the semester.

• Order/rent textbooks and obtain class materials
• Find the location of your classes before the first day of school 
• Know where the closest dinning center is to your classes
• Allow more time to get to class- for most, your class is no longer a link click away  
• Check out CyRide 
  • Orange 23, Cardinal 21, or Blue 3 are great bus routes to take you around central campus
• Use the MyState app to access at any time: 
  • CyRide schedule 
  • Map of campus 
  • Class schedule 
  • GPA calculator
• Print out/download course materials and bring to class to take notes
• Set SMART goals for the beginning of the semester 
  • Write down your academic goals for each class
  • Be specific for what you’d like to accomplish academically
• Make friends in class to hold each other accountable 
  • A friend to help take notes 
• Practice what works for you to study 
  • Schedule your time and stick to it
  • Not everyone can study effectively with a buddy 

 

Academic Support Resources

 

Check out the services from the Academic Success Center.  The ASC is here to help you be successful in the classroom.

The Academic Success Center (ASC):

We support. You succeed! The Academic Success Center provides learning opportunities for all students through services that support academic skill development, grade improvement, and engagement with peers, all of which promote success and self-directed learning. The ASC offers individualized and group-facilitated experiences that can be connected to a specific course, or focus on general skill development. The ASC encourages students to use the supports that can best strengthen their learning. Services include: 

• Academic Coaching: One-on-one meetings with an Academic Coach to address perceived barriers to academic success by developing an individualized action plan. Topics can include time management, exam prep, study skills, and more.  
• Supplemental Instruction: Free, regularly scheduled group study sessions led by a peer connected to your instructor. Offered for more than 30 courses each semester. Visit www.si.iastate.edu to view the schedule. 
• Tutoring Services: Small group tutoring for any undergraduate course led by a qualified peer that takes place twice a week consistently throughout the semester. Apply here www.tutoring.iastate.edu  
• Workshop Series: Request a workshop for your class or organization, or attend a workshop hosted by the ASC.
• Writing and Communications Consultations: Request Writing and Communication Support facilitated by the ASC

Learn more about ASC services, resources employment opportunities, and where to find the office at www.asc.dso.iastate.edu or by calling 515-294-6624.