My CLaSSeS

What I like most about my favorite class is the teaching style of the professor. The first day of class I was so worried about what to expect because I did not take the course at my college preparatory high school in New Orleans due to Hurricane Katrina, therefore, I did not feel entirely prepared for the college level course. However, by the end of the first class I knew that I was going to really enjoy the course because the professor actually excited me about the material. The best thing that the professor has done for me and the entire class is showing us how to use our notes and quizzes to study. The way she broke done every quiz question and showed us how to transform it to use as different study questions in our study groups was so amazing to me. For both tests so far this type of studying has been extremely helpful to me. During my high school career I usually studied alone and did well, but I have found that for this course it is crucial that I study in a group and actually talk about the information we learn so I can get a better understanding of how everything relates to each other.

I am okay with all of my classes but if I had to choose a least favorite it would be most likely due to the time of the class. It begins at eight in the morning, not that this is a huge problem because I have eight o’clock classes everyday except Tuesday, but this class is about two hours long and requires physical activity besides taking notes. Although the activity is not really strenuous, I just would not like to be doing experiments early in the morning because this forces me to have to pay extra close attention so as not to mess up the procedures and skew the results of the experiment. So far I am doing well in the class, but maybe to make it seem like less of a burden I could study for the vocabulary quizzes more than a day or two ahead of time so I do not feel like I kind of know it but really am winging it. With any class that I do not enjoy too much maybe I could spend a little extra time preparing for the class so, for instance, I do not feel burdened with too much information at one time.

Elections/Voting

I’m very excited about this election. With the other elections, I didn’t pay much attention. I understood what was going on, and I knew I didn’t want George W. Bush in office when I was younger because of everyone else’s opinions. It really didn’t matter to me because my voice wouldn’t be heard anyway. I felt like I didn’t need to know what a primary or caucus was, what the issues were and who would run our country. I just knew that I came from a Democratic family and Bush was the opposite.

Of course, things have changed. I’m am involving myself more and more each day. I’ve watched CNN, MSNBC, and even FOX more than I ever have in my life. I did take the time to look at both sides and I find myself agreeing with most of the issues on one side, so that makes my decision a lot easier. My major concerns are issues such as healthcare, education, and fixing the economy. Those are the main issues that concern me.

I really don’t agree with all the mudslinging that has been going on. The candidates should stick solely to the issues, have a little fun with the mudslinging but don’t become overbearing as it already has.

I’m concerned about how the election will turn out. We can’t have another four or eight years of the same results as the last eight years. I’m also concerned about the older generation’s votes. I know a lot of older people that feel that Obama will be assassinated when he gets in office, so they’re doing him a favor by not voting. I really hope their eyes will be opened, and they can be persuaded from that way of thinking. We should try to think positive.

Why New Orleans Matters/Outside Events

Part I:

I thought the introduction about Hurricane Katrina was the most interesting. It was an eye opener and brought back memories I’ve tried to tuck away. It just goes to show that trying to ignore the past isn’t the way to go.

The way Mr. Piazza described the harsh reality that we faced during Katrina is exactly the way my brother described the city. He was working as a criminal sheriff at the time and had to remain behind, helping the New Orleans Police Department with all of the people that were in the Superdome at the time the hurricane hit. I remember being calm, thinking the hurricane would pass and the worst would be over. I remember my calmness turning into fear when the violence began in the Superdome and my brother no longer kept contact with us. His phone was dead and the last message I received from him was telling us that they were shooting and that he loved us. Although he returned home safe weeks after everything was over, his life was changed as well as ours.

When I read the introduction and the hardships my city faced during Katrina, that was the first story that came to mind. It was interesting how Mr. Piazza recaptured those moments through words and painted that particular scene. It was also amazing how it stirred those thoughts that I tried to put away for the past few years. Instead of pushing away how I feel, I’ve learned to talk things out and express how I feel, especially about the tragic events of Katrina.

Part II:

I absolutely loved Dr. Harris’s lecture. What I took from the lecture more than anything else was believe in yourself, do not give up on what may seem to be impossible to accomplish right now. He dreamed about becoming an astronaut and no matter how silly that dream was, it didn’t matter to him. He knew this is what he wanted out of life and he went for it. Not only did he accomplish his dream, he went on to be very successful in other areas. I was moved by the story of his childhood and how he would pretend that he was in space. He was very inspiring and I appreciated him coming from out of town when he could’ve been tending to his property that may have been damaged by Hurricane Ike.

I believe that he deserved more respect than our class gave him. I understand that it was movie night but we could’ve found a better and perhaps more quiet way to make our exit. The timing was pretty bad, which brings me to my next point: not everyone has the same schedules. I know that we’re in college now, practically adults and having to get our priorities straight, but if there’s movie night and a mandatory Freshman Seminar event around the same time, I’m pretty sure movie night would win. I think outside meetings should be move convenient, especially since there are students that have to commute and aren’t able to make most of the events.

I also feel that if students aren’t able to attend an outside event, another option should be offered. And if there are students that attended the event but were not counted for whatever reason, they should be able to make it up.

Xavier and Me

First, I am a member of the Xavier University community. We all have something in common which is trying to better ourselves by continuing our education. We’re all determined beings or we wouldn’t be facing the obstacles that we do in college. Our school is one big community, whether we know all of our peers or not. I am on the newspaper staff, so that is also my community. Although it is slightly smaller, we all are out to accomplish the same goal. My department, the Communications Department, would be considered a community. We all have an interest in learning about public relations, speech, print journalism, and the rest of the parts of communication.

My Mass Communication community has to be one of my favorite communities. Although I’m still young and new to all of this, I feel that I’m learning quickly. I chose to be part of this particular community because of my love for writing. Instead of playing with dolls or sitting in front of the television as a child, I would be in my own world reading and writing. I had my mind made up at the age of twelve that I would become a journalist. I became interested in sports writing and I honestly believe that I will become a very successful sports journalist.

This community is important because we take care of each other. There are many opportunities offered to us and networking, in my opinion, has been great. I’ve met a lot of people that can get me on the right track. It’s definitely a very important community.

Community Service

Community service means giving back to the community by volunteering a few ours out of my day to help someone else. I have done community service before, but after Katrina I try to give back in every way I can. I’ve been blessed. I just think about all those who helped me in my time of need. Clothes, school supplies, food, etc. were donated to me and there was no way to express how thankful I was. I still am and I count my blessings everyday. That is the main reason why I try to go out of my way to help others in need. I love volunteering. I know how it is to lose everything so when the Red Cross is having an event or there is some kind of drive (clothes, food, etc.) I don’t mind helping out. My favorite place would have to be nursing homes or places where there are people that haven’t seen their family members in a long time. They’re extremely appreciative of the time you spend with them and that really warms my heart. They’re very grateful. Another place I volunteered that I enjoyed was the Brent Woodall Foundation. This foundation is geared towards helping families assist their Autistic children. Those children there were extremely sweet. It’s a shame that they’re label and written off when truthfully most of them were extremely smart kids. This year I want to make it a habit to find somewhere to volunteer my time at least every other weekend. A little help can go a long way. You can make someone’s day and not even know it by volunteering.

Xavier Mission

The Xavier mission is very important to me. In this day and age, we do need a more just and humane society. There’s a lack of respect going around and by following the mission, I would like to do my part by respecting others as well as myself. We need to learn up how to treat others with respect and live up to the expectations of the mission everyday. This mission should be our guide and not be forgotten from day to day. The mission is important to Xavierites because its what we live everyday, or, at least the way we’re supposed to be. To the University, the mission should mean everything. If staff, faculty, etc. did not live up to these expectations, how are they going to be an example for us? To Alumni, the mission is instilled within them. My sister graduated from the university in 2004 and she learned a lot as a student at Xavier. She has taken with her everything Xavier University has taught, and even the mission is still strong in her life. She’s back in school, still reminding herself of Xavier’s mission statement.

We really should be more just and fair to everyone and treat others as we would want to be treated.

Introduction!

Hello everyone!

My name is Maya Angela Jones and I’m from New Orleans. I attended St. Mary’s Academy for freshman year of high school and after Hurricane Katrina I moved to Dallas and graduated from a high school out there. I’m now a freshman at XU and very excited to be! My major is Mass Communication, minor is Psychology. I chose Xavier because truthfully, almost my whole family graduated from this school. I figured I’d continue our family legacy and become the next graduate of XU. As I stated earlier, I’m from New Orleans but moved to Dallas after Katrina. It really opened my eyes to the fact that I had been taking my city for granted. Dallas was extremely nice, but there’s really no place like home. I missed everything about my city. I was even missing my Saints games, and anyone who knows me knows that I bleed black and gold. That’s what was hurting me the most. I love my city!

As far as my personality goes, I’m very shy, at least in the beginning. Once you get to know me I warm up and I’m very, very outgoing. I love meeting new people and I love to have fun! I’m smart about it though. I’m not going to go out of my way to have fun knowing that it will hurt me in the long run. There’s a lot more about me a lot of people may not know. I love sports! Most guys find that surprising, I guess because most girls aren’t into those. My favorite sport is football. I’d love to become a sports journalist and sideline reporter. I’d be able to tie my favorite hobbies together: watching sports and writing.

Again, I love to meet new people and that has been one of the best parts of Xavier so far. So if you see me around campus don’t be afraid to say hi!

Classes

The class I like the most is very challenging . I like this class although it can be a bit aggravating because of the problem techniques. Once you get to know how to solve the problems it gets very easy. Being able to concentrate on how to well you do the work pays off.  Sometimes the class that I like the teacher get it very twisted up at times but I still manage to know how to get through the problems. The class that I dislike is very hard, maybe because the teacher just read off of what we have to print off of the computer. I think if the teacher breaks it down enough so I can understand what I need to know then maybe I might catch on to the subject quite well. I like that the subject I dislike is very complicated but most of all it requires what I need to know for what I want to become. In order for me to put myself up for the challenge  that I’m having problems with I need to study real and maybe try to see what I can know out of it. In the future I can be better my classes by going to the tutorial session that they have so I can understand the materials quite better. If I put in a great effort of my dislikes and likes about the classes then I will be able to overcome my difficulties of getting bad grades. Despite of everything the requirements for the class is complicated because you have to have so much to achieve at what you want to become.

Studying

The time i usually pick to study is late at night because i am more focused and serious about studying at night. When i do study it is usually for about 2 to 3 hours depending on how focused i am. I like being by myself when i study in complete silence because that is the best way for me to concentrate. I mostly study in my room but when i need help ill go to the library and study with the person helping me. However there is a downside to studying in my room which is that i have alot of distractions such as the tv and music. Although i am able to study with music on when the tv is on i cannot concentrate at all and it defeats the whole purpose of me studying. I could improve my study habits by studying alot more and not procrastinating when i know there is an assignment due. I try to study during the daytime however it is hard for me because i always feel like i have an unlimited amount of time and end up putting off my studies till nighttime. The time when i usually study is when i know i have a test or quiz due the next day and when i study for these i usually wait till the night before the test or quiz. There are alot of things i could do to imprive my study habits the main goal for me to acheive is to stop procrastinating

Classes

The class that i like the most is challenging, but in some cases very frustrating.  The reason why it’s challenging is because it deals with many formulas and reactions that we later get to do in another class.  The material that each reaction and formual is based on what is put into the problem to get to solution.  Even though the material is confusing at times the teacher of the class doesn’t just go more into depth, but she always breaks it down into baby steps so that everyone in the class room understands.  I enjoy this class very much because it’s a major part of what i want to do professionally.  My least favorite class deals with numbers.  It’s complicating because i was taught one way in high school but it is taught differently in this University.  The teacher, i think, is the main problem because he goes onto different subjects as examples of the problem.  To make my disliked class better, i should review the material before the material is taught so that i can have an idea about what i’m about to learn and i can also dig into my old material from high school.  Some of the stuff taught in this class i touched on a lot during high school and having it here is just a review but it’s just the way of teaching it is making it confusing.  Another thing i can do to improve in this class is to practice it more and turn to others for help and put use to the tutoring center instead of trying to figure it out all on my own.

Studying

When it comes to studying, I usually would just turn on some music and hit my notes.  I find it quite strange that I can study if music is playing, but not if there is any other noise in the room.  I have no particular area to study, as long as I can play my music and its not there is no loud talking.  I think I can approve my study plans, by not waiting to night time to study.  I only like to study at night.  My particular time of study is between 2:00a.m. and 4:00a.m..  The reason for this is because most of the people in the dorm be sleep and It allows me to have a clear and easy mind.  My study time depends on my test schedules.  If there is no test, I usually wouldn’t study, or atleast not as much.  This, however, has changed.  I have been studying all week since midterms and I am looking forward to making the dean list.  On a weekly basis, I usually study about an hour every two days.  Now, my studying is taking up about 70 percent of my day.  In high school, I never had to study so this is an entirely new process for me.  My study habits are gradually changing and and with every new day, they are improving.  I have even changed my study hours to any available time that I have.  My day is pretty much like school, an hour of free time, studying, an hour to eat and 4 hours to sleep.  I understand that I don’t have the best study habits, but for anyone out there that can help me with them, I am open for ideas.

Studying

Studying is very inportant throughout my college life.  But to tell you the truth I don’t know how to study.  I never really found a method that’s just right for me.  When I do study or try to study I usually would read over my notes and look in the text book for a better understanding.  I prefer studying by myself, but when I don’t understand something I ask for help.  Like the time I had a problem in chemistry.  I didn’t get it in lecture but when I received help, I understood it a lot better.  As for a particular area, I would usually study in my room on my bed, with all the materials I need to study.  My room is my study area because, its comfortable and quite.  Although I said that I like it quite I kind of like to have the television on because I need some kind of sound effect in my room.  But with that I can’t put it on anything that I’am interested in because, then it would become a distraction.  As for a study schedule I don’t really have one.  I just study whenever I think that I need to improve in a particular class.  But when I do study I do it during the week, when I get home from school because if I wait, I tend to get lazy and won’t do it.  And as for studying I really need to work on it because I only study when I have a test or a quiz and its usually the day before that I do it. So finding a study method that would fit me will surely help me improve my study habits.

Studying

When I study I am usually in the kitchen area or the living room. I cannot study in my bedroom because I tend to fall asleep. My best friends and I usually study together but we often get off task and have conversations. It is better that I study in the kitchen because the bright lighting keeps me more focused and alert. Sitting in at the kitchen table and in the kitchen chairs is less comfortable than the sofa so I stay on task. When we study we often have on music so that we won’t talk to one another.

            I usually do not study that often unless it is a bulk of information that I have to intake within a long period of time. If I do not have a test or an assignment I do not study because I do not see a point. Although I know it would probably help me in that class I can not force myself to. My study schedule is pretty much the same as my test schedule since I only study around a test that covers a vast amount of information.

            I best study during the day time simply because of the fact that I work at night. I would rather it this way because at night time I tend to fall asleep or be less strict about studying. My study habits definitely need improving. I have the tendency to wait until a couple of days before an examination to study. Although I do well on the test it is not likely that I remember once the exam is over.

Responsibilities

One area of responsibility I have a problem with is time management.  Although I usually make the deadlines of paper and other assignments I sometimes wait until the last minute to complete them. One cause of my poor time management skills is the fact that my two best friends and I often study together and get sidetracked from our work. One day last week we were all working on papers for various courses and all seemed to be stuck. We then decided to go out to eat. We had a great time but by the time we got home it was nearly 1 o’clock and we were too tired to complete our work. One way I know I can avoid this is to practice working alone. If I can start working alone I can probably be more efficient and more effective when it comes to turning in my work.

            Another problem I have when it comes to being responsible is being informed and aware about events and assignments about classes and school. For the first two outside events I did not know about them until the day of because I did not know how to access my webmail. If I would have been involved more before the school year had started I probably would have known how to access webmail and would have know about these outside events and not have missed them because of previous engagements.

            Overall if I improve in these areas I will most likely improve my school work and my overall grades. This would be a huge advantage for me.

‘ The Art of Studying’

For me, studying is not really something that I do regularly. I didn’t have to study in high school that much because it came easy for me. Now I find myself in this new environment were studying is an essential part of success. I have gotten into the habit of studying as often as I can. It has to be a quiet place, but not to quiet, because the lack of noise drives me crazy. So for my studying is usually done with some music on, but nothing that will make me want to sing and dance though. I think that there are something situations were I could study more, like for test and quizzes. However, there are just sometimes when I just don’t feel like opening those books. I know it’s a bad habit to have, and I’m trying to break it.  I can study with people sometimes, as long as they don’t hinder my concentration. I know that my studying isn’t the best, but it is improving. I’m the type of person who can look at something or hear my teacher say something once or twice, and I can remember it. So I find myself trying to relay on that, instead of studying. It works most of the time, but when it doesn’t I feel bad cause I know that I could have tried harder. I don’t have a studying schedule, and I usually don’t study unless I have a quiz of something like that coming up. Studying in the morning, around eight to ten o’clock, help me retain the information better. That’s why I study a lot before class. I think that writing this post for this week has really made me look at the strengths and weaknesses of my study habits, and hopefully because of this I will be able to improve them.

Studying

I like to study with a group but no  more than three poeple and then again I  like to study by myself too. I like to study in an quiet enviroment with a little noise. Because I kind of don’t like being in a quiet room. I like to study in my room with a little music in the background. My room is a good place for studying because in there im in a zone that nobody really can disturb me in anyway. If they try to I just ignore them that all. To be honest I dont study as much as I am suppose to study be now I am on the good foot and I try to study a couple of days before the test. And I learn if I keep doing that I do real good on my testes, and when I don’t study like that i tend not to do all that good on my testes. I dont study for that class but I do try to do some of my homework assingments early so that  want fall behind in any of my work. Because I tend to wait to the last minute to do my work and that is not the right way to be.  No i do not have a study schedule but I think i do need to make me one so that I can be on task with all of my testes that are coming up.  I like to study at night because that is when the house is just starting to settle down and things are peaceful and i like to sttudy right after i be than took my bath so when I get sleepy I can just fall asleep.  That is pretty much all of my study habits that i have.

Studying

Studying is a love/hate thing for me. I hate when I have to put something off just to study. Although its not one of my favorite things to do, when I get into it I love it. First of all its kind of relaxing for me as I read my book and highlight the most important parts. I usually read as much as I can for an hour, take a break and then start where I left off. Sometimes the information can get overwhelming and thats why I take little breaks in between. When I usually study, I turn off the radio, the television, and my phone so I can concentrate on what i’m reading or working on; I like to make sure there are no distractions. I usually study in my room where I can lock the door and sit at my desk or lay on my bed. So when I start studying I really get into it. I hate to say it but I only study if I have a test/quiz/exam to take. I like to read or review homework assignments a few days before the quiz or test. Sometimes I do procrastinate but I like to stay ahead on some of my reading assignments. I usually study after I get home and settle in. Sometimes I even go to the library and study there. So no I dont really have a study schedule. I should have one and plan out the days I should be reading or reviewing work. One thing I would like to change about my study habit is just staying completly ahead of the game and being a week in front, which gives me time in class to ask a question if I didnt understand what I read at home.

Studying

In high school, I learned two things. I cannot study better with music on and I need to be in a quiet area to focus unlike other people. To me, Barnes and Nobles is the worst place to study, it has so many distractions and noises that will never let me focus. I have to study at a library or at a quiet coffee shop where I won’t get distracted. The noises from the blenders at starbucks is so loud you hear a constant blending noise over and over, where those small coffee shop are just pouring cups that make minimal noise.

To improve my areas of studying, I learned to sit far from the entrances where people walk in and out constantly making noise. Sit in a corner where there is light to read and no distractions and it is possible to have 100% concentration on your school work or home work or whatever you are trying to accomplish.

For me, I study everyday. I try to keep myself busy with school so I won’t go out as much, or go places during the weekday where I should be focusing on school work and getting my A’s. Even when I don’t have anything due, I will still study or atleast review. Cramming the night before or two nights before is the absolute worst thing you can do, I should know because I messed up on my highschool Biology II AP class studying the night before. Luckily, I managed to get a B the first semester. My study schedule is 1 hour for the class in two days, and 1 1/2 hours for a class the next day, so everyday I would be finished around 9-10 PM once I get home.

For me, studying after a quick 1-2 hour nap and shower is the most refreshing and focused I can get. I’m rested and awake from the shower so I’m ready to buckle down and study.  I have a tendency to procrastinate papers though. I’m a semi-last minute writer, but I still write ahead of time, just by two or three days instead of the week ahead. To improve that, I have my planner now to schedule even better.

Studying

I learn during high school that I can not work with study groups because many people do not have the same needs that I do. I am a visual and hands on learner; therefore, I have to keep my hands and eyes busy so I will not lose concentration on my learning goal. For example, I draw out phospholipid bilayerson a dry erase board by my bed, label every part of the membrane, and list the characteristics of each organelle. Things in this nature helps me know how the cell membrane is structure, and when it is given on the test, I know what it is. I came up with the conclusion that if I get a spiral notebook and write all terms that we use in class, I would have my own “dictionary”. I find new ways to develop my study skills every year. I just got to find a set time to study everyday because I study only 3 days out the week at most when I am not tired.

I usually study in my room. My room is better because I can have personal space. Its also better because I can focus better. If there is not a test or homework, I usually do not study because I have this thought of, “I do have anything to study for that means more sleep for me!” I am working on this, but as of now it is not working on my behalf. Studying be a ritual habit, especially in college, and as many freshmen realize, it can make or break them.

Studying

I study alone mostly. I like to study in the library but I mostly study in my room. I like to go to the library in groups so that I can work in a study room because its a good peaceful environment. The library is good because it puts me in a zone. My room is good because I wouldn’t have to worry about forgetting something. I could improve by going to the library everyday and studying in groups. When I’m alone I could study each day for a little longer.  I study each day for a few hours and at night I study for the classes I have on the following day. I don’t really study for a class if I don’t have a test or assignment unless i’m struggling. I have started to though because doing stuff at the last minute stresses me out. I don’t have a study schedule but I do plan on creating one. I study best at around seven or eight in the evening because its given me enough time to relax and eat so from that point on i can study for hours without stopping. After that time I don’t have any obligations. I just really developed study habits because in high school I didn’t have to study for much of anything. I thought I would have good study skills if I ever had to use them but I learned soon after I got here that studying is not that easy. Studying was hard for me at first but I am making progress each day.

STUDYING

I have a few different ways of studying depending on what it is I have to do. For instance if I have to just read alot of information, I’ll leave my phone in another room and I’ll go into my car or under my carport and read until I finish my reading. If I need to write a paper or just study, I’ll unplug my distractions and get my work done as quickly as posible before I get bored or I’ll work in increments of 45 minutes. It is important for me to do all this because I have and extremly short attention spand and if there is the slightest distraction then I more than likely disregard my work all together. But I make an effort to study everyday with the exception of sunday because I need a day off. So the best thing I did for myself was make a daily schedule of what to study and for how long. In the schedule I intentionally made room for times where I need to study more for test and quizzes. I look to study right after school when I am still in the work mind set or early in the afternoon while I am the most awake and alert. A weird thing about my study habits is that it has to be either perfectly quiet or I need music. Another thing is that I need something to drink and something to snack on so that I do not have to get up to get either one.

Studying…

Now that I’m in college I have to study a lot more than I ever did in high school. Thankfully, I have developed a few different methods of retaining information. Reading the chapter(s) that we will be tested on is one method. Reading is a good method for me, because usually I will find something in the text that wasn’t specifically covered in class. I know what some of you are thinking, why would you want to know more than is required by your professor. Well sometimes the subject is interesting, unfortunately that’s not always the case. Other times that extra piece of information helps me better understand the required information. Other times I’ll simply review over my notes. If I personally hand wrote the notes that also tends to pose a problem. I don’t have the best handwriting, far from it actually. Sometimes I will go back and try to read my notes and I can’t understand what I had written, especially if I was tired when I wrote them. Working with a study buddy has proved to be a really effective way of studying for me. We’ll quiz each other and help each other with concepts the other doesn’t understand.

When I’m studying I’m usually in either the lounge on the sixth floor of KD, the library, the UC, or in my room (at my desk). I don’t have to study in these areas, but I do find that I frequent these areas more often. I most likely gravitate to these areas, because they tend to be quiet, little distractions, and Internet access. If I’m in my room I have to be at my desk, because studying in bed usually ( 8 out of 10 times) results in sleep. I could improve my room by moving my radio so I won’t be as tempted to turn it on. However, sometimes turning on music during study time is inevitable. If I’m very tired and I have to stay up to study the music and maybe some coffee is the only thing keeping me awake.

So far I haven’t been lucky enough to not have an assignment due in a class. If it was to happen, I have no idea what I’d do with that extra time. I don’t have a study schedule. I have trouble making schedules, because my day usually doesn’t go the way I plan.

Studying

I think that my study habits need improvements. I do feel as thought they work on certain subjects. I like to study with my music playing because it keeps from becoming side tracked by something else. When I study I use my notes that I took in class and also my books. I read over all my notes about three times then I ask myself questions about what I wrote in my notes.  After I read my notes I look through my book and review the sections I highlighted in class previously. I also use the section reviews to test myself to see if I know the work. If I don’t I re read the question and see if it was something I didn’t put in my notes or see if it’s something I didn’t highlight. If I wasn’t I would highlight it and put a star by it. I put the star there to remind myself to go over this. If it was something in my notes that I thought I knew then I would put two stars by it. I would also reread it in my book also. I would then go back to the question and understand what the answer is and why is it the answer. I often study when I know there is something I know I don’t know. If I know I don’t have a test coming I don’t study I know it’s not good but it’s a habit I have to break. I also don’t schedule my study time which I know I should. I study best two days before the test I really don’t know why but I do. I plan on getting some information on how to improve my study habits.     

Studying

When i got  to college when somebody told me we had to study all i could but look at them crazy because i never true study in my life since i been college but, i had to learn had to study by myself but I really truely can say i really don’t think am study right because when i study for everything like the basic education and I be study so hard but when it come time to study you just don’t understand when the test when it’s right in your face but then you start to forget about everything you learn but when i had a big text i spend  about three to four hours on study on the chapter we have to read or the notes in class that the teacher was giving to use but when you get to college there is a big change from young adult to being a women and men in college there are no more parents teacher thats always on your back to do you homework an class its just you by yourself but as a students it can kind of me hard to ask for help when it come time when your teacher giving you some stuff that you do not understand the work she have giving you in class and you may not think you learn this in the real wrold but nine out of ten you have to use it for your career in the big wrold but all I can truely say is just try and ask question in class and for help but you know what help you learn better in class and help you pass your testes but that how i study also keep card to write them and put stuff that help you understand that you studying there.

**StUdYiNg**

When it comes to studying, I think I do a good job because my grades reflect my study habits. I study best when I can see what I’m learning. For example flash cards, diagram and pictures help me really understand what I’m learning. I study best in my room or in a area where it’s not too loud but not too quiet. I feel as though I can focus better in a quiet area but if it’s too quiet, I’ll be able to hear myself think, and that’s just annoying. I guess I’m not an easily distracted person. I could improve my study area by cutting my phone off. That’s the only thing that distracts me when I’m studying. I study everyday. I might not study all day, but I do study everyday for at least 4 hours. I try to designate a hour or so for every class everyday, especially pre-cal and biology. If I don’t have a test or quiz in a particular subject, I still study for that class because it’s always better to be ahead. It’s also hard to cram for classes such as pre-cal and biology before a test or quiz. You have to study regularly. I do not have a study schedule, I just set time out of the day to study for what I need to study for. I study best in the night because I feel like the information I study sinks in while I am sleeping. Its also a lot quieter and less distractions. I can say that before I get ready to go to med school I am sure that I’m going to have to perfect my study skills, but I know I can.

Studying

I personally study with music in the background.  When I have to study vocabulary I have to have complete silence.  I do not have a particular area for studying.  I know for sure thought that I can not study in my room because I can not concentrate there.  I study every now and then.  I only study for certain classes like biology and history.  I do not study for math.  If I don not have something due for that class or a test to take I do not usually study.  I should but I do not have any motivation to do so.  I have no study schedule.  I study best during the daytime because of all the sun and brightness.  It helps me to study outside or in a very sunny room.  I think for me the sun keeps me awake.  It also makes me happy and feel good.  For me the sun helps me to concentrate.  I am not very sure of the reason though.  I have horrible study habits.  I usually procrastinate because of my lack of motivation.  I also do not study for that long.  If I have an exam or quiz coming up I have to study for short periods of time because studying bores me.  If thing bore me then I have a really short attention span.  My mind usually wanders off onto some other subject.  Eventually I snap back into reality but usually it is a good while later.  This is how I study and my habits.

Studying.

I study by using my notes and my books. I look over all of the important things and try to understand it not just memorize it. When it comes to problems like chemistry I keep working the problems consistently to understand it. For me, I usually study at the library because it’s really quiet and I can concentrate a whole lot better. At home I try to finish my homework and any other assignments I have and then go to school and study in the library. During test days I usually gather with some friends and we all go over our problems and study together. Everyday I study, I’m either studying or doing my homework. Usually everyday after school I take a short power nap and wake up to study. On days that I have to work, I wait till I come home to study. I think the best time of the day for me to study is at night and during school because I have no one to distract me. I like to come home and study when everyone is busy and not trying to bother me. When I study I try to completely eliminate talking to anyone and even anything that districts me from studying. The only bad thing bout my studying habit is knowing how to manage the time I study. I wish I had more time in the day to study my materials because I want to do really good in school. At the moment I’m a little bit disappoint in what in what I have on my midterms so I know in the future I’ll be dedicating more time to study.

HOW I STUDY….

I study many several different ways. Sometimes I study by myself in my room or with a group of friends in the library. I dont really have a particular area in which I study but most of the time its in my room at my desk or when I want to change it up I study in the library. There is not really any important factors that I need to study except quiet. In fact it does not even have to be extremely quiet. I can have the tv going or music playing as long as it is playing down low. One of the things that could improve my study area is turning off my cell phone so that I am not interrupted or locking my dorm door so that I don’t have visiters while I am studying. I try to study a little from each class every night whether its for a hour or three hours but it’s not that bad because I usually take breaks in between. If I dont really a have a test or a assignment due I still try and study the notes from the class earlier that day. As for a study schedule I don’t really have one I just study when I feel I need to whether its every day or before a test, sometimes even on weekends. I mostly study during the day so that my nights will be free or if that does not work out I study at night. If it is a weekend and I have to study and I want to go out I try to get all my work done before I go out. Other study habits I have are that I always write in blue pen because I heard from the 12th grade psychology it helps you remember better. Whether its true or not I don’t know but it doesnt matter blue is still pretty. I only write it pen for my math class.

Studying

I study by reading over notes and practicing the various practice problems that I can get my hands on.  Most of the time, I study at the desk in my room; but, for big tests or exams, I go to the library so that I can concentrate and retain the information better.  I could improve by not being so lazy and studying more often, and not just the night before the test. I have to start managing my time better and planning my time with basketball and being a biology pre-med major.  If I don’t have a test, or an assignment due, I don’t study.  I feel as if I retain the information better if I study the night before. My study schedule depends on what I have due.  For my Chemistry drill class, I do my work on Sunday nights because I have drill on Monday morning.  I do my papers the day before they’re due and I study for quizzes the night before they are given. I study best at night before I go to sleep and right before a quiz or test because I remember it best this way for tests and quizzes.  Most teachers and professors would say that my study habits are some of the worst because I wait to the last minute, but I feel as though this works the best for me.  Maybe they could be better, but I don’t have the same amount of time to study and do work as most students.  I have basketball practice from 3-5:30 and I’m also in class from roughly 8-1 on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays and from 8-230 on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  I’m not complaining, but with this schedule, my way of studying is the only way to go without burning myself out.  Plus, I have all a’s and b’s for my midterm grades, so I must be doing something right.

Studying

     When I study, I like to be alone in either my room, the library or any other place where people will not hold a conversation with me.  Therefore, I do not have a particular study area.  However, a great place for me to study is a place where no one knows me.  I can then put all of my attention on the subject and not be tempted to talk anyone or they be tempted to talk to me.  To improve where I study, I can make sure all of the materials I need are on hand and make sure there is plenty light available.  I type to this because I tend to forget a pencil or paper after I am ready to start studying. 

     Also, I tend to study almost every night.  Since I am full- time chemistry student, there is always something to study, so I try to look at least something, even if it is just a couple of sentences.  Also, if there is nothing due for a class or subject, I probably will not do anything because those moments are so far in between.

     My study scheduale consists of  when I get home from school or whenever the mood strikes me.  When I force myself to study, I am unable to perform at my fullest potential, and my best time to study is whenever I am awake.  It does not matter what time of day, as long as I am fully rested.

Also as I study, a  highlighter or a pencil is usually in my hand to help me focus on the main points.

Studying

I study by reading over notes and practicing the various practice problems that I can get my hands on.  Most of the time, I study at the desk in my room; but, for big tests or exams, I go to the library so that I can concentrate and retain the information better.  I could improve by not being so lazy and studying more often, and not just the night before the test. I have to start managing my time better and planning my time with basketball and being a biology pre-med major.  If I don’t have a test, or an assignment due, I don’t study.  I feel as if I retain the information better if I study the night before. My study schedule depends on what I have due.  For my Chemistry drill class, I do my work on Sunday nights because I have drill on Monday morning.  I do my papers the day before they’re due and I study for quizzes the night before they are given. I study best at night before I go to sleep and right before a quiz or test because I remember it best this way for tests and quizzes.  Most teachers and professors would say that my study habits are some of the worst because I wait to the last minute, but I feel as though this works the best for me.  Maybe they could be better, but I don’t have the same amount of time to study and do work as most students.  I have basketball practice from 3-5:30 and I’m also in class from roughly 8-1 on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays and from 8-230 on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  I’m not complaining, but with this schedule, my way of studying is the only way to go without burning myself out.  Plus, I have all a’s and b’s for my midterm grades, so I must be doing something right.

Study Time

Studying Is one of the most important thing to do in college. In high school it was very possible to pay attention in class and still get A’s without studying. When you arrive at college however you are expected to adjust quickly. The same thing you were able to do in high school is not the same thing you can do in college to succeed. I am learning how to study. I was able to make good grades in high school simply because I was in class and paid attention. As I am realizing now that is not possible here at Xavier.  I Study in my room, the library and outside.  I find that my favorite place to do work is outside. It provides just the right atmosphere of noise and quiet for me to think. The library is where I spend a lot of my time due to my work study so I study often there. At times I find it to quiet and my mind starts to wander. When I am in my room by myself I study and read over my materials. I find that my room is a good place to study because I concentrate better there.  I study daily even if there is no class that day. I am learning that this is the best way to focus on all the material that must be remembered. I plan to improve my study habits by learning different techniques and seeing how if they help me or not. I study at night most often. This is because I am a night owl. I cannot focus very well in the mornings.

Studying…or lack thereof

I study at my desk in my room because I need to sit upright so I can focus clearly. I like for my study space to be uncluttered and well lit, that’s why I bought a lamp. All of these things help me stay alert. I could improve my study area by keeping my desk organized so I can keep my mind off of distractions. Before I came to college I never studied for tests, quizzes or anything. Now that I am in college all of that has significantly change. I do not study everyday but I will review the material from class if I did not quite understand it all the way or I might ask my roommate or one of my friends to explain it to me. I do not have a study schedule but I usually study for my class the day before I have it so I can know what is going on in class that day. It really does not matter what time of day I study but I absolutely cannot study when I am tired, it seems like all I can focus on is how tired I am and how bad I want to go to sleep. For the most part I try to avoid studying when I am tired unless I have absolutely no other choice. I also found that studying while listening to music helps me block out noise from my roommate and people in the hallway because I am very easily distracted.

Study! Study! Study!

I don’t have a particularly organized study pattern; the habits that I do have were unintentionally set into motion.  I usually make an attempt to pick up a book daily during the school week. I prioritize my assignment more so based on grade weight instead of due date.  However, if there is a test or quiz during that week, I will review roughly two to three pages of notes or text daily, depending on the amount of information on the test. Obviously some tests/quizzes require more review than others.  If there is not a test or an assignment due in a class, I probably won’t pick up anything that pertains to that class (unless I am utterly bored).  On the other hand if there is a topic that slips my comprehension in a class, I will study it whether there is an assignment or not because I want to improve my personal grasp on the topic.  I never pick up anything for school on Fridays or Saturdays; I guess I consider those to be “vacation days”.  Yet, Sunday is my most extensive study day (just fell into habit).

On weekdays, I try to study in my room, which is located at the very back of the house.  I emphasize the word the try because there is a door in my room that leads directly outside to the claimed area of some of the boisterous characters that New Orleans has to offer.  They are relatives of mine and they spend the entire day and two-thirds of the nights running machinery (they restore vintage cars), blasting music, and attempting to find the loudest possible speaking voice to use in conversation.  However, I have learned their schedules and I work my study time around their break times and auto store runs.  On the weekend, there is nonstop commotion from the kitchen, right before my room, and outside (which is probably why I take those “vacation days”.) Nevertheless, I carry all of my school materials to the very front room of the house to engage in my “Sunday study ritual.”  The front room became a good study area by default; the bustle of the kitchen and fiestas outside make it impossible to study anywhere else. 

The only thing that could improve my study area is sound proof walls. Then again, if the entire house were soundproof, I wouldn’t need a special study area (maybe I’ll work on that proposition.) J Nevertheless, although the front room is the most peaceful in the house, I am still subjected to the constant hum of cars passing over the stretch of interstate that is located across the street.  Sunday morning is the best time because there is the least amount of traffic than any other day or time.  Other than that I have no specific study schedule because it revolves around the amount of chaos that I can block out when I do actually try to study. 

on studying…

I have very poor study skills…but, lucky for me, I still seem to be doing well in all of my classes thus far. I wish I had all of the time in the world to devote to my school work, but the truth is…I really don’t. It is really hard to fit in study time when you have a husband and a toddler. I try to do most of my studying before they get home. I wish I had a special study/homework area….but, sadly enough, I don’t. Usually I end up studying on the couch or on my bed with ear-plugs in. I am very excited, however, because we are about to move to a house that will have an office for me to study in. It is so hard for me to focus as it is; so it will be great to be able to go to the back of the house and shut the door. Peace and quiet is key for me to be able to absorb information. I have made a study schedule, but I find it really difficult to stick to it. I don’t usually put studying off totally until the last day before the tests, but I do concentrate my studying more towards the end of the time between tests. I find that I study better in the late morning or early afternoon. If I try to study at night, I usually end up battling my sleepiness. I also find that I study better while I am at school; but usually I can’t wait to get home and don’t want to fight the traffic, so I don’t stay at school longer than I have to.

Jasmine Grant:Studying

I study by reading my notes,rewriting my notes,working extra problems,and using note cards. I study in my doorm. I like the area because my roommate doesn’t bother me, its quiet and Im able to stay in my own room. I could improve by not waiting until the last minute to studywork..Having to wait until the last minute to study makes me cram in a lot of information in a short period of time.If i study in advance I feel that I would be more prepared tests and upcoming  I only study when I know I know I have to and that is like a couple of days before the test. I know that I should study as soon as I get the material but I never do.If i do not have a test or an assignment due I do not study for that class event though I know I should. That would help me be more prepared for upcoming assigments and tests. I do not have a stusy schedule but I do think it is a good idea to have one. It helps with time mangenet if i keep a schedule. It doesn’t matter the time of day that I study as long as i am in a comfortable enviornment. Other things about my study habbits would be that I never study all of the material. Mostly because I get too lazy to want to finish studying it. I feel that if i know the material already then I do not have to study it, but it never hurts to study it anyway.

Studying

Studying is a very important part of being a college student. Especially being a student at Xavier University it is mandatory that you have very good study skills. I like to study in my room when I am alone or I will go to the library. A good area to study in is a place that is quiet and you can concentrate without having a lot of interruptions. I will try to study my notes everyday, but sometimes I don’t get through all of my classes. If I do not have an assignment I will study for a couple of hours and take about a fifteen minute break in between. I usually began to study after I eat dinner so that is around 5:30. If I do not have an assignment or test due I still try to study my notes everyday so I do not have to cram a few days before an exam. I usually tend to study on the weekdays Monday through Thursday because I want to relax on the weekends. If I have an assignment or test due Monday then I will also study over the weekend so I can have the material fresh on my mind. I do think my study habits have improved, but they are still not how I need them to be. I really do not enjoy studying because of course it is not fun, but studying is something that needs to be done in order to keep up my grades and remain at the university.

Jasmine Grant:Responsibility

Two areas of responsibility as a student that I have not yet perfected would be study techniques and procrastination. I am not doing things in a resasonable time. I wait until the last minute to do everything. Includes homework,papers due,just about anything that has some type of importance. With study techniques I do no study like I am supposed to. I know the how and when I need to study but I never use self disipline.I can improve on the procrastionnation part by starting on things the day of. No matter if they are due a week later. The sooner it is done the more free time I would have or the more time I would have to concentrate on other subjects. I can improve my study habbits by applying self disipline. I know what I have to do i just have to make myself do it. I will have to take the measures of putting my priorortites in check. Nothing comes before my school work. Everthing else can and must wait. I need to stay focused on what type of future I am trying to bulid for myself. I can also set goals for myself and trymy best to reach these goals that I set. Being more responsible will affect my life a lot. I won’t have to worry about rushing at the last minute trying to turn in homework,I won’t have to worry about the quality of my work because of the rushing,so then I would not have to worry about the grade that I will recieve on my work. Studying habbits will improve test and quiz scores. It will also improve my gpa.

Study Time

I know that it is very important to study and if you don’t study then bad things can happen to your grades. When I usually study it’s alone somewhere in the where there is very little activity. I can’t say that I have a particular area it’s just where ever i can be alone for a period of time. My house is a very busy place at times; a TV could be loud or someone walking around just a lot of different things. Now that I am in college, it is all I have time to do is study in order to keep my grades up and know the information that is being taught. I do what I can by looking over new information every night. When I know that I really have something to study I usually try to study for a few hours with a break every now and then. Even though I only my go to a class once a week I do try to study the information and make sure that I know what it is that I have to do. I wouldn’t say that I have a study scheldue but I make sure that I am doing whatever it is I need to do. When I get home I might take a break or find something to do for a little while then when I have nothing to do then I take out the books. Since I am a late night person I might stay up late just studying. When I study I am usually listening to something in the background like music or somehting I don’t like total silence but I just like being alone. Studying is important and we must that care of school work before some other things. STUDY! STUDY! STUDY!

Let’s Study!

Study is very essential aspect of my prosperity at Xavier. I have always known that studying is very important. Every time I asked someone about a class everyone would usually say “YOU HAVE TO STUDY!!” So I knew thats what I had to do. I feel when you are studying you have to be in an environment where you can feel comfortable and can concentrate. Taking time to see what assignments are due is essential. I take sometime every week to sit down and see whats due and when. After I realize what assignments I need to have completed in a certain amount of time..I get to work. Right now I study around my classes. The days I don’t have certain classes is the day I study for those classes.For instance, on Tuesdays and Thursdays I only have Math class…and on those days I study for my classes I don’t have on Tuesday and Thursday. I like to study around 5 o’clock..or late at night…I don’t know why but those times have always been a good time for me to study. I think its because I usually stay up late and wake up early… Being awake and aware of what you are studying is another important study tip! It’s important to also review your work on a regular schedule. Even if you don’t have work due for that class yo should always make sure you are familiar with the lessons that you are going on. Reviewing on a regular allows you mind to take in the material…without cramming it in at the last minute. Not to say that I haven’t crammed for a test, which I have, but with me experiencing cramming and studying ahead I saw a dramatic change in my understanding of the material. So With all that said…Even thought studying my be boring..it always so IMPORTANT!

Shannon Taylor