During your time at college, you will likely find yourself in a required class feels completely unbearable. It may be in a subject you hate or with a professor who really doesn’t know what’s going on (but is somehow super strict when grading?). Sitting in the classroom or lecture hall might feel like an eternity as the professor rambles on while reading directly off the PowerPoint slides. Lucky for you, if you’ve found yourself in this situation, I have some tips to get you through that class!
1. Go to Class!
I know that you probably don’t want to, or you might feel like it’s a waste of time, but just go. After all, you are paying for it, and simply showing up can boost your grade if the teacher grades attendance.
2. Take the Best Notes You Can
In these types of scenarios, professors tend to not teach enough information for you to understand the lesson. This can be very frustrating, but if you take the notes that you can, it will make it easier to fill in the blanks later with a tutor or your own research. Also, don’t be afraid to go to your professor’s office hours. If you bring the notes you were able to take and still have questions, it might help them realize that there is a disconnect in the classroom.
3. Go to Office Hours!
If you don’t understand what is being taught in class, go to the professor’s office hours. They might be better at explaining things one on one. If they’re not, at least they are now clued in that their lesson was difficult for some students to follow. Office hours are also a great way to introduce yourself to your professor, which may work in your favor when it comes to calculating final grades.
4. Find a Friend Group
Whether it’s the people you sit near or mutual friends, having a group of people who can support and help you can make all the difference. They can keep you accountable in class and make it a little more bearable. Your friends may even be able to explain something you don’t understand.
5. Breathe
Although it might not be the easiest class you’ve ever taken, you can do it. Find support both in and out of the classroom to help you get through it. Make sure to do your homework and pay attention in class. It might not be enjoyable, but it is possible to power through. Remember, a semester only lasts about four and a half months, and it will be over before you know it.