Tips #4

Woody Allen tells us that "Eighty percent of success is showing up."

As the temperature increases, so does our desire to be outside. After working all year long, it may seem increasingly difficult to attend classes, especially after spring break. So, take a moment to remind yourself why attending classes is so important. Here are twenty reasons for you to consider:

1) The person who teaches the course usually assigns the final grade.
2) Concentration during class shortens your study time afterwards.
3) You can have your questions answered by an expert in the field.
4) Professors who know you well may use their professional contacts to provide you with references and other valuable career assistance.
5) You'll sharpen your note-taking and listening skills--both of which will be valuable in your career.
6) Classes are great places for developing new friendships.
7) Collaborative learning projects will help you develop social and leadership skills.
8) You'll get a return on your investment in college tuition.
9) You'll get up-to-date information not found in books.
10) You'll get clues about the material most likely to appear on tests.
11) Professors who know you well may nominate you for scholarships and academic awards.
12) A good lecture condenses and connects information that might take days--or longer--to acquire on your own.
13) You won't have to rely on secondhand information about assignments and test dates.
14) Your vocabulary will improve.
15) Your classroom experiences will reinforce the learning experiences you've had on your own.
16) Class lectures often contain the answers to test questions.
17) You'll start to feel more comfortable in an academic setting.
18) You'll observe skilled thinkers in action.
19) Intellectual discussions will sharpen your speaking and reasoning skills.
20) It is difficult, if not impossible, to get A's if you don't attend class faithfully.