The semester is over...now what?

There are a few things to think about now that the semester is over and you have received your grades:

First, check your grades:

* If you are not sure why you received a certain grade, contact the professor and politely ask for an explanation.  Keep in mind that some professors will not answer emails in which case you will have to see them in person at the beginning of the next semester.

* If you think there is a mistake and the professor will not help, there is probably a procedure to follow at your school to clear things up.
* Be sure to keep any evidence you have to support a higher grade (homework, exams, emails, grading policy in syllabus, etc.)

If you are disappointed with one or more grades:

* Examine your efforts – class attendance, study habits, attendance at tutoring, etc.

* What could you have done differently?
* Should you consider repeating the course for a better grade?
* If you do this, what will you do differently the second time?

If you are pleased with your grades:

 

* What did you do to earn those grades?
* How can you replicate these strategies in other courses the following semester?

Enjoy your time off!  Rest up and get ready for the next semester!

First Semester Success: Study Strategies and Motivation for Your First Semester (or Any Semester) of College, by Dr. Arden B. Hamer, is now available at wordassociation.com, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com.