Blog #2 - Study Habits

My study habits are something that have been evolving since I started studying for tests in my second year at Carleton. Before this time, I would glance at my notes, but that can hardly be considered studying unless I retain the information. In my second year I found the best way to guarantee I remember the information I was studying: coloured pens. By colour coding my notes as I was writing them I remembered each one because I was actively paying attention to what colour I was using and categorizing the notes accordingly. Of course, all studying should be done in an environment where there are few distractions. 

The first time I tried to colour code my notes I was in the living room while my roommate tried to cook an entire Easter dinner for her boyfriend’s family and set the kitchen on fire. My notes were perfect, but that turkey was not. As it turns out, when a turkey catches on fire, the incorrect response is to scream and run from the room. I wasn’t the only on learning valuable life lessons that day.

One problem I see myself having with the more technical course I am taking is that not all information I take notes on is something I need to memorize. To combat this, I will have to look at what exactly I need to know and what the best way to remember that data is. For example, in Computer Systems Hardware we need to remember how to disassemble a Personal Computer (PC) and reassemble it. At this, taking notes helps, but is not enough to remember where each component is supposed to go without having a deeper understanding of the function of those parts. In this case, simply understanding the function of a specific piece is more beneficial than the notes on where they go.

PS: Here is the Start Wars video you should have showed the class.

Assignment 1 - Intro to College Life

My first week on campus probably isn't as hectic as it is for most people. I already have a degree from University, and nothing can compare to the panic I felt my first week there. The first few weeks of college for me is more like an orchestrated chaos. The hardest part isn't dealing with a new setting; it's helping my younger brother deal with it. He can't figure out how to turn a computer on let alone how to access his systems for his classes. I’m trying to help him understand how to handle all the new things he is experiencing here. The best thing for anyone to do is handle things one step at a time. Plan out when your assignments are due, work on them between classes, and then set some time aside on weekends to finish what you need to. Let’s face it, no one likes doing homework at home, and when you’re at school you're already in a “do it” mindset. Between classes is the best time to get work done. It’s not like there’s anything else to do anyway. And while on campus I can get access to in-person help with IT services or SALS. I’ve already used the IT services more than once dealing with my own set-up and my brothers, so I know how important they are going to be throughout the rest of the year. All-in-all, I’m not worried about this year. As hard as an assignment, exam, test, or lab can seem, it’ll be over in a few days and then you can move on. Stress is temporary. The first few weeks of college can either make or break you when it comes to the school year. After you are past the first month you should know your professors well enough to feel comfortable asking them for help.

When stressed, remember, everyone feels stupid at some point in their life. That shouldn't get you down. Click here for an example of a moment a successful man made a mistake in front of over 200,000 people on the Internet. WARNING: there's a lot of cursing.