We’re here, we made it — it’s finally 2021! With every new year, I like to set goals and aspirations to work towards.
Since we are still in a pandemic, my goals look a little different this year and mostly pertain to my work ethic in school and the way I live my day-to-day life while still in quarantine. Here are a few of my goals for the spring semester that may inspire you to make your own!
Active listening and participation in Zoom meetings
It’s no mystery that a Zoom class meeting is drastically different from in-person classes. This past fall I found myself dissociating when I wasn’t interested in the material especially when the class allowed my video to be off. I could freely look at my phone or wander around half-listening to the material I’m paying good money to learn. Not only was I not engaging in active listening, but I also saw my participation decrease as well. In-person classes allowed me to raise my hand on a whim or speak freely, participating in the discussion whenever I felt I had a thought or answer to share. With Zoom, there is an extra step of un-muting or getting your professor’s attention.
So this semester, while our remote learning continues, I will be engaging in the material by holding myself to a higher standard by taking detailed notes during lectures/discussions, making an effort to share my thoughts, and attempting to make meaningful connections with my classmates.
Staying up to date on my homework assignments
At the beginning of each class, there seems to be an influx of assignments, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why I always look at the professor’s syllabus and write down all the important deadlines in my planner. This helps me prioritize what I need to be focusing on and stay up to date on readings, homework, and class discussions.
Keeping in contact with professors about questions/concerns
This is something that I’ve been working on for the past three years. In the past, I’ve let myself fall behind because something was unclear and, for whatever reason, I didn’t reach out to the professor for clarification. This year I’m taking my final math requirement and as someone who has struggled with this subject in the past, I am making it a point to visit with my professor whenever I have a question, big or small. Asking for help isn’t embarrassing or shameful; it’s a part of growth.
Seek tutoring on material I may be struggling with
Whittier College provides free tutoring in any given subject through the Center for Advising & Academic Success. If you have a question or you’re struggling with the material, I highly suggest either reaching out to your professor or visiting with a tutor for clarification.
I hope you find these goals helpful and inspire you to create your own. While remote learning is not ideal, it definitely provides more time to focus on your own growth in whatever way that may be.
