" Someone told me that if you start something, you have to finish it. English is my second language. In the beginning, when I first started school, I faced many communication barriers. But I kept going. I spent hours studying the material from class, I often had to get extra help from tutors, and I never missed a class. It's difficult, but I am not going to give up."

There is no easy avenue to success. However, listed on this page are suggestions to help keep you on the right path.

Study Skills
There are many techniques you can use to sharpen your study habits. One of the very first steps you should take is to locate a quiet, organized study area. In class, take good notes or bring a voice recorder, highlight important material in your textbook, ask questions, and be prepared by bringing your textbooks. Ask your instructor for further tips. For more study and test-taking strategies, you can visit StudyTips.org.

If you continue struggling in class, on-campus tutoring is available. There are tutoring sessions for math, writing, and technology. There are also LER study groups conducted by the Academic Success Center. For more information about these services, visit their website. Oftentimes, in large classes, instructors will form their own study groups prior to an exam. Make sure you network with your classmates. You could form a study group to better prepare for an approaching test or trade notes if you are absent.

Time Management
Don't cram for tests the night before; keep a planner and mark all test dates. Study and write papers in advance. Make a schedule and pace yourself so you do not feel overly stressed and worn-out. It is possible to balance school, a job, and family. Make sure you have a reliable support system-whether it is friends, family, or student support groups-that can provide help when you need it.

There are several electronic calendars available online. You can also utilize the calendars provided with your desktop computer or laptop. If you do not have access to the internet or are unable to purchase a planner, you can make one yourself. Using a 100-page notebook, mark each page with the date of every day of the semester. Include your work and school schedules, designated family and friend time, and medical appointments.

Student Conduct
Students have certain responsibilities in and out of class and conduct off-campus could affect you on-campus.

In most circumstances, instructors will allow technology in the classroom, and some even encourage it. However, students can often abuse these privileges. Students are required to turn off their cell phones during class. It is disrespectful to the professor if you are texting or if your cell phone rings during a lecture. If you must keep a cell phone on for emergency purposes, put it on vibrate. If you bring a laptop to class, do not play games or check your social media. You should be listening and taking notes. Also, remember to turn off your laptop's volume. If you need to contact your professor, there is a certain amount of etiquette required. An e-mail is not a text message; you must use correct punctuation and grammar. A proper e-mail should resemble the following:

Hello Dr. Trodden,

Instead of printing next week's paper, I was wondering if I could send it to you through e-mail.

Thanks,
William Leggit

If you're not sure how to address your professor, refer to the My Courses tab in Flashline. Listed are the names of each of your professors, along with their titles (Mr., Mrs., Dr., etc.). Be sure to include the course's title as the subject of your e-mail, and make sure you include both your first and last name.

Your professor will hand out a syllabus at the start of class that explains semester expectations, when assignments are due, and the grading scale. Know your syllabus! If you have to miss a class, make sure you contact your professor and/or provide the right documentation for your absence. Plagiarism, is a major offense. For more information about this issue talk to your professor or visit http://www.library.kent.edu/files/Plagiarism-08262008.swf.

In class, do not talk while the instructor is lecturing or another student is answering a question. Be respectful to both students and professor. Come to class early; bring all materials you need for class; and do not prepare to leave before the instructor dismisses you.