Happy New Year! I hope your 2013 will be your best
odd-numbered year to date!
Many of you have probably made some type of New Year’s
Resolution. Maybe you want to try a new sport, or lay off the chocolate. Maybe
even hit the gym once in a while.
As for me, and quite a few fellow students I know, our goal
for 2013 is to improve academically. This could mean develop better study
habits, get help when you think you need it and make sure you stay on top of your
work.
The funny thing is, most resolutions we make are goals that
we think we must do individually – that we have to “go it alone”. We tend to
forget about the support system that exists for us; whether it’s friends,
family, or your institution.
Here at McMaster, the Faculty of Engineering offers many
ways to support your academic goals:
Your professor is there to teach you. He or she even schedules hours for
you to go ask them questions. Many students do not take advantage of office
hours – don’t let that be you!
The McMaster Engineering Society
has set up study sessions with ‘upper years’ to help ‘first years’ prepare for
tests and exams. How sweet is that? You can work with people who have already
been through what you have! You can always set up a study group of your own
with your friends as well.
 |
Some people prefer to study in groups.
These Eng girls studying in Thode, the Engineering and Science Library. |
It is a great time to be a first
year at McMaster! New this year is something called the ENG I SUCCESS
Initiative, where first years that may have not done so hot in their term one
courses have an opportunity to upgrade their marks and improve their study
skills!
And if these options don’t get you where you want to be,
there are
academic advisors in
Engineering Student Services to help you out. University may seem like an
intimidating place on the outside, but there is a huge network and support
system waiting for you.
Good luck this year! Keep sticking to your resolutions to find your way to success!
Later days,
~ Daniela
