Words of Wisdom

Ask most incoming college students, freshmen or transfers, what some of their concerns are and most likely they will give answers ranging from how to choose a major, to size of class workload, what to expect from a professor in a college classroom setting, and social opportunities on campus.

Matthew Brennan, professor of English and director of graduate studies, and Eric Glendening, professor of Chemistry and chairperson of the Chemistry department, had several words of advice for incoming students to ease their anxiety.

When it comes to choosing a field of major study, Brennan suggested "pick something you know you are going to like. If you don't choose something you love, you're just grinding out your existence."

Students might also feel pressure from their parents to pick a certain major, regardless of whether the student likes the field or not, because it will help them get a job. In such a case, Brennan said "almost all fields can lead to good jobs. Finding out what these opportunities are from professors in the department, that will make an effective argument with parents."

Some incoming freshmen may not be aware of some of the differences between their high school classes and their potential college courses. Such differences may include class meeting times and days and workload level.

"A fair number of freshmen think they'll be able to survive college classes like they survived high school classes," said Glendening.

Brennan added "The main difference is that college classes meet two to three times a week as opposed to every day, students at a college level are expected to take a greater level of responsibility and self-reliance,"

In terms of workload, Brennan said "it varies with the instructor. Some professors say students should expect to do two to three hours of work for every hour they are in the classroom, but it also depends on time of the semester too, times such as mid-term tend to be busier and more demanding, with a greater workload students need to be more vigilant."

In Chemistry classes, students are expected to read and spend a lot of time on problem solving. "I tell my students to fully anticipate spending two hours outside of class studying for every hour in they are in class." Most of this time will be spent on problem solving compared to reading, Glendening said.

When it comes to expectations of professors, Brennan said "expectations and attitudes will vary from professor to professor, but compared to much bigger universities, students can expect professors to be more available to them-meet with them outside of class, learn their names, and so on. Indiana State aims for a small college atmosphere."

Brennan also "would urge any student to make a point of visiting their teachers during office hours-that's what office hours are for. Students often avoid their teachers, which is a mistake."

Students should also expect a more professional environment in college, said Glendening. "One of the problems we have with students is communicating professionally, especially with e-mail. They think punctuation is optional and the salutation is often 'hey'"

Another important concept for an incoming student to consider is time management. Time management is a crucial part of making the most of the college experience. Those who manage their time well often achieve better grades and are better able to balance a social life with academics. Brennan offered several tips for effective time management:

• Find a quiet place to study. solitude and concentration are vital for more intensive studying. • Keep a calendar marked with due dates • Keep the syllabi at hand for reference. • Take notes in all your classes, it makes the learning more efficient. Many students do not realize the resources available to aid them through their college experience. Academic advisers are one such source. Brennan said "students should make use of their academic advisor, and should feel free to ask questions of any teacher as well."

For more serious concerns, Brennan urged students to make us of the psych clinic and the counseling center at any time.

Finally, there are a few things students can do to prepare ahead of time for their first semester. Brennan emphasizes three tips:

• Find out some of the books on reading lists and start reading them ahead of time • Become familiar with the ISU Web site • Know various requirements for graduation and major.

Glendening offered slightly different advice: "don't come to college stressed. Relax and have fun during the summer and come to college read y to go."

With this advice , any student could begin structuring their semester also implement the practice of time management, and be on their way to a successful college career.

(Catherine Ippolito can be reached at sascamed@isugw.indstate.edu)