With the first semester nearing a close, many students will review their performance and seek change. A new semester is a fresh start. Showing that you can change and improve is often more important than maintaining a perfect GPA. Schools want to see that you can adapt and evolve. Here are some tips to meet your goals moving forward into the second semester.
Set Goals
Make a list of your strengths and areas to improve. Then make a plan with concrete steps that you can take toward your goal.
For Example:
- Strengths: analysis of evidence in essays, reading comprehension test scores
- Areas to improve: participation in discussions, studying for math tests
- Plan: make at least one comment or question during each discussion, ask the math teacher for the main concepts to study for each test and find a friend to study with
Consider Your Study Habits
Was it hard for you to get homework done? Was technology a distraction? Did you not have a good place to work? Identify what study strategies were not helping and replace them with better options.
For example:
- Use a planner to write due dates, test dates, and study times
- Finish homework before going out with friends or engaging with your phone
- Find a quiet place you can focus like a library, coffee shop, or park
- Keep distractions like phones in another room
Talk to Your Teachers
Your teachers are motivated to help you succeed. If you don’t know why you didn’t reach your academic goals, ask your teacher how you can do better next semester. They may have valuable insight into what is holding you back.
Clear Out Your Backpack
It’s time to get rid of old assignments that clutter your systems of organization. Don’t throw them away! Store them somewhere in case you need them as examples in the future. You should head into a new semester with clean folders, so it is easy to keep track of your relevant paperwork.
Replenish Supplies
Replace tools and equipment you need like pencils, folders, or planners. If you do not have access to new supplies, ask your teacher for help. Usually your school will have extra supplies for students with financial barriers.