YOUR best study tips...

Study Tips for Nontraditional Students - what are YOUR tips?

 I can list some of MY best study tips. And I will today. But I also would like to know yours. What helps you from day to day? What things have you learned since you started back to school?

I know that organization was key when I went back to school. Keeping everything in its place saved countless hours for me, especially when it was time to study for a quiz or test.

I no longer put every subject in the same folder. I used to think this would save time for me, because I would just grab one folder and always had paper in it no matter what.

But what would happen is that the notes from the different classes would get mixed up. And I would have to spend time moving them around too much.

Some other things that helped me as a nontraditional student were forming study groups, keeping a calendar that I carried with me all the time, sitting in the front of the class where I could hear the teacher better, getting phone numbers and names from other class members just in case, and using a highlighter on my notes.

I also used a new note-taking method, where I left a space at the left of my notes (and drew a vertical line down each page) so that I could jot down notes, add arrows, and note what the instructor said would possibly be on tests.

I also made sure I had extra pencils and pens, plus extra paper so I didn't run out. Some other students knew this and would borrow from me. I didn't mind that. I think it made me more popular!

What are some of YOUR tips and hints for studying better and smarter?
I would love to know them.

Thanks ahead of time!


-Betsyanne

Some Nontrad links: The Nontrad site and blog Join Nontrads on Facebook Nontrads on Yahoo Nontrads on Twitter

Ack - what to do when you are sick...AND a nontraditional student.

The cold and flu season is upon us. And I personally am sick today. It packed a double whammy, I guess because I was thinking I would not get a cold this year.

Which got me to thinking. What can a nontraditional student do when he or she gets sick? This is equally bad to happen for everyone, but for the student, what can be done? If people don't show up for class, they don't get the information they need.

I would quick be in touch with the instructor and tell them if I were sick, and arrange to get the information from another student, who I had arranged ahead of time to take notes for me if I was ever not there. This is SO helpful. Especially because if you do not arrange ahead of time, many students will not have any notes to share with you. Because some students in classes today simply do NOT take notes. I know, it's surprising, but I found it to be true.

Then, get back as soon as you can to class or online to class. You don't want to infect everyone at school, but sometimes it's possible to take some strong medicine and keep away from others and still get your work done.

What do YOU do when you are sick? I now when I was student teaching I went anyway, because it was simply easier. Then I realized I should have just stayed home. So maybe the overachievers out there need to realize that too. Because if you don't stay home and get well, your illness could get worse.

A great thing on some campuses, if you are in a face to face class, or have use of the facilities, is that there can be good health services there, who can help with medicine, a nurse visit, etc. which will help you get well faster.

Here is to your health!

 -Betsyanne 

This cute sick bird drawing is from the ever-free and public domain art site Clkr.com.


Some Nontrad links: The Nontrad site and blog Join Nontrads on Facebook Nontrads on Yahoo Nontrads on Twitter

Ten advantages of face-to-face classes

Why do I like face to face classes best?

I guess it's because I learn better hearing the instructor talking and also learning with groups. It just helps somehow. I also like being able to study with study groups.

But there are some other reasons I prefer face-to-face classes over online classes.

#1.  In a face to face class, the material is covered more slowly. You have the chance to take notes and ask more questions. To me, getting a good grade is easier in a face-to-face class.

#2. If you are on campus anyhow, you can check out the library, get books, or study in a quiet area. You can also use the school computers.

#3. If you want, you can also use the school's gym facilities, if it has them. At WKU, they had a great area for running, swimming, and classes. I didn't take advantage of it like I should have, but it is a great plus for students.

#4. They have choices of food places there, and you can eat close to your class OR eat your lunch there. Sometimes it is fun to eat out, or eat elsewhere.

#5. You can make friends there. There is something about being actually in physical proximity that helps you get to know somebody.

#6. You an start or attend a nontraditional student group on campus. Maybe you have a class anyway that day. Or not. But if you are at school or can get there, many schools let groups have a room there at the school to meet.

#7. You can get to know your instructors personally, by going to their on-campus office and/or scheduling an appointment. Seeing your instructor in person can make you feel more connected.

#8. If you have classes far apart, you can choose to do a lot of walking, which is good exercise.

#9. You get away from home, which helps break up the day. I know if I had signed up for all online classes, just being at home all the time would not have been as interesting.

#10. You can become familiar with the campus, and attend student events, plays, and lectures there. This can add a new facet to your learning.

I don't have anything against online classes. I even have taken some. I just personally prefer face to face ones. I enjoyed the ones I took, and made some friends too.

Just saying. You may not have a choice. Your class may be offered ONLY online, or you may be attending an online school.

BUT if you have the chance, I'd say to take ALL face-to-face classes or take a combination.

What kind of classes do YOU prefer? Take the poll and find out.

I look forward to finding out what others say. Later!

 -Nontraditional students are going for their dreams.

-Betsyanne 

And here is the signup for the NT News:



Related postings you may like:
Online vs. Face-to-Face classes: which are better?
Nontrad Students in College - 11 More Tips for Success
The Nightline Investigation - are For-Profit Schools Telling Students the Truth?
 

My Nontrad links:
The Nontrad site and blog
Join Nontrads on Facebook
Nontrads on Yahoo
Nontrads on Twitter

Midterms and grades - how to improve them...

This image is from the Clkr site at http://www.clkr.com.

Midterm Testing...

How did you do?

I have been hearing some stories about midterm testing from some nontraditional students. These tests are often bigger and more important than other tests. At least they used to be. Some instructors like to attach a huge bunch of points to their midterms.
Many people have already taken all of these tests and have done well. Some may not have done as well.
This has happened to me before. I have gotten a lower grade than I expected on some midterm exams. Sometimes, though, I came back and got a better grade on the next big test, or all the quizzes. Sometimes a report helped my grade too, because I got a good grade on that. If you are concerned, you may want to go to talk with the instructor. It is possible that you may be able to do some extra credit to up your grade.
You may also want to form a study group (how to do that) and make sure your next test is passed with flying colors.
Good luck on midterms, and if you are in school right now, I hope things are going very well with all your classes.
Here are some more postings that may be helpful to you:
Get to know your college professorsClobber your test anxiety 
More about study groups
10 study tips for nontraditional students
-Betsyanne
Some Nontrad links: The Nontrad site and blog Join Nontrads on Facebook Nontrads on Yahoo Nontrads on Twitter 
And here is a funny note:

This image is from the Wikipedia Commons site and was taken by Paul Randall.
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/14/Emergency_Twitter_Was_Down.jpg

Relaxing on the weekend? You can take a little time... 7 tips

How to take a break during a busy weekend

for nontraditional students

I know, many nontraditional students are totally busy this weekend. And pretty much every weekend. Maybe classes are not in session this weekend, but there are many things to do, like catch up on housework, do projects, assignments, cook something, and use that Round Tuit.

But it is very healthy to also take some time for yourself. It can be very hard to do this. If you do not do that at all, you can try incorporating "You Time" into your weekend slowly.

Everyone has their own personal tips that work for them. I have seven here that have worked for me. Here they are:

#1. Start exercising once a day or every other day for at least 15 minutes. Try out those exercise routines you used to do. Take it easy on yourself, because you might not be in shape yet. If you are older or think you may have a medical condition, consult your doctor first for their pointers and advice.

After you have done this for a week or two, you may be able to move up to more time. It is a very personal thing, and either you and/or your doctor can also tell you how to ramp up exercising. Easy does it.




#2. Meditate - have you tried meditation or meditation using yoga?

This can be very relaxing. Take a class to find out more if you are not already familiar with medication or yoga.

#3. Write in a journal or diary. You can do this every night before you go to bed. You can write as much or as little as you want. You may find this practice relaxing AND revealing, as you sort through your day and activities. It will also provide you with quiet time as you do it!

 #4. Window-shop. Have you ever looked around a store and just loved the newness of it? You don't have to spend money to relax this way. Of course, generally women love this more, but some men also find this activity very relaxing.

#5. Pamper yourself. When is the last time you enjoyed a wonderful bath or pamper treatment?

Use those face masks, bath oils, good-for-you lotions and take the time to feel really good. While you are at it, put your feet up!



#6. Read a good book. Are you the short story type? Scheduling some reading time that is NOT part of your assignments can be very relaxing. I try to read every day before bed. It is fun, relaxing, and educational too.

 #7. Encounter nature. Take a walk or just go outside and sit to watch animals or hear the birds (if posssible) in your neighborhood. If you do not have much nature in your neighborhood, go to the nearest park for a little while. Being around nature is very healthy and revitalizing.

I hope you have a great weekend. 



Let's add to this list! Tell me your ideas for relaxing on the weekend too. Thanks!

-Betsyanne


#2. Some Nontrad links: The Nontrad site and blog
Join Nontrads on Facebook
Nontrads on Yahoo
Follow Nontrads on Twitter

What to wear... for men and women going back to school...

Fashion, clothing, and the Nontraditional student.

Okay. So maybe you won't be able to afford to buy a lot of new clothes this OR next semester. But that's OK! Just knowing what looks good together can help you either blend in or stand out, whatever your plan is as an older student.
No money? Just wear what you have. You may want to look around at other older students and see what they are wearing. It wouldn't hurt.
I found a couple of neat sites online to help aspiring student fashionistas and cool guys and ladies on campus.
Here they are:
#1. College Fashion - what to wear in Winter - cute outfits for cold weather. Some of there outfits work great for Fall too. It all depends on where you live, of course. I like this article, because the illustrations show you each component of an outfit, not just a new blouse or something. You can see some neat boots, coats, scarves, and bags too.
#2. The Burberry Brit for men - here are some pictures of fashionable coats for men. We are talking England here. But you know a lot of times Brits are pretty well dresses and know their fashion. Notice that the guys are mostly wearing jeans here. I am guessing these are clothes you can wear to class.
I picked these sites on purpose because they are illustrated. Want to see more sites with fashionable clothing on them?
You can check these links out too:
(from the site)
Some nontraditional students DO care about fashion!
Back to school as an older student - what should you wear? (2009)
And here are some more:
The Marquette Journal gives hints on what to wear for interviews
Fall Fashion Trends explained: Boho DeLuxe, Country Folk, Iron Maiden, and Modern Simplicity. By the ChicFashionista.com. (I am thinking: women here.)
Fashion Beans - Men's style ideas. There are some good up-to-date coats featured here on this page, plus links to clothing of all kinds (designer brands.) You can get a pretty good idea of what is selling for men here.
What to wear in college (from the Students over 30 site). They have some clothing to buy here too.
Whether you opt for a backpack or rolling backpack, or a messenger bag is totally up to you. I guess that would depend on how many books you need to tote!
From Ehow's college tips for older students: this article suggests that you wear what you normally do, and don't try to dress like a teenager. I like this advice too. I mean, look fashionable if you want, but don't try to copy everything the younger students wear. It probably wouldn't feel right to you anyhow.
Send me your ideas and stories too, to lizann447 at yahoo dot com. Thanks!
-Betsyanne
Some Nontrad links: The Nontrad site and blog Join Nontrads on Facebook Nontrads on Yahoo Nontrads on Twitter 
The cool student picture at the top of this lens is from the Microsoft artwork site here: http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/images/

How to make sure you are in the right class... 6 tips

Image via Wikipedia

For next semester or when you go back to school:

Here are some pointers to make sure you are in the right class - - for nontraditional students AND others.

I know it is just October, but pretty soon some of my readers will be signing up for classes that start AFTER the holidays. Here are some hints for you to go over as you think about what you will take.

#1. Go over your pre-requisites and classes you must have before you can take the other classes you want. If you must make an appointment with someone at the school (like an advisor), make an appointment now. If you wait until very close to the time people are registering, it may be too late.
You may already be signed up, and have all the classes in the perfect order already. That's great if you have done that. You can skip down the list now. :)

#2. Make sure that you sign up for classes BEFORE your school's deadline. This may sound like a gimme, but if you are involved with tests and finals, it can be hard to keep up with these at the same time. Consult a school calendar or ask an advisor or the School Office about this. Write an entry in your calendar (a must-have) and also remind yourself with an online reminder service. There is one at Yahoo Calendar for free. You may also have one available through your email service.

#3.  Before you OK your classes online or in person, make sure that you will be able to walk or take the school's bus to each location in plenty of time to make it to all classes on time. It can bug some teachers to have you late for class each time. If you need to juggle class times, NOW is the time to do it, while spaces are still left, if any.

#4. Make sure all your paperwork has already been done for your school loans or payments. Again, waiting for this can really be a pain. Now is the time to head up any mistakes that may have been made in the office. (I have heard about this happening in the Nontrad Yahoo group... so the earlier you can check and make sure everything is done right, the better.) Sometimes you have to check on these kinds of things at least once a week if there is a problem.

#5.  Before starting next semester, make a schedule you can put in or on your main notebook OR on all of your class notebooks. This will help a lot, because you won't have to always look for your schedule - it will be with you all the time, and handy to see. Your schedule should have the time of the class, the room # of your class, your professor or instructor's name, and the class name there too.  You will thank me.

#6. Review what you will need for the rest of your time at school. What classes do you still need to take? You should have this written up in another location so you can always check it just in case. And you MAY want to start looking into classes for next Fall. Do you need to fill out another FAFSA form? Who is the best teacher for the class you need?

Now's the time to ask around and/or consult an online help page, like Rate My Professors or ProfEval (for college classes) or Rate My Teachers for other schools (high schools or other schools) to make sure you get an instructor that you will like. Or just ask somebody who may have taken your next class (for other schools).

Have another tip to add? Just add it at the end of this posting. Thanks!

-Betsyanne

Some more Nontrad links: The Nontrad site and blog,
Join Nontrads on Facebook  - Nontrads on Yahoo - and Nontrads on Twitter

Every day isn't perfect for nontrads... plus some motivational quotes

Tweet

Image via Wikipedia - the Ralph Waldo Emerson House in Concord, MA.
I love to read motivational quotes, because sometimes I don't feel really motivated. I can run into problems, and even though I know they are probably temporary, the more I think about them, the bigger they seem.

When I was a nontraditional student, sometimes I would be faced with being tired, not seeming to have time to do everything, fear that maybe I wasn't doing well enough in a hard class, and the feeling of not quite fitting in to class because of my age.

It all depended on the day and my mood.

Other times I felt as if I didn't know what to say to other students in class. Other days I felt I had talked too much and was alienating people.

In other words, not every day went great when I was going back to school. But somehow I motivated myself to go back every day and go to class.

Just knowing I was making classes (and noticing others had not) made me feel good. That tired headache felt better and I felt like I was making real progress. I could at least compare myself to the people that didn't come to class and missed out on all the important things that I knew would be on the test!

Here are some motivational quotes to help YOU, the nontraditional student, as you wind up a long, hard week. Because you CAN do it, but sometimes it helps to hear some positive messages to help you along your educational journey.

These quotes are from some websites I have used before on the Nontrad Twitter site,  The Quotations Page (Q) and ThinkExist.com. (TE)

#1.  "Age wrinkles the body. Quitting wrinkles the soul." - Gen. Douglas MacArthur (TE)

#2. “Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough.” - Og Mandino (TE)

#3. “Make the most of yourself, for that is all there is of you.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson (TE)

#4. "The aim of life is self-development. To realize one's nature perfectly - that is what each of us is here for." - Oscar Wilde (Q)

#5. "Know how to listen, and you will profit even from those who talk badly." -Plutarch

#6.  "If I had my life to live over... I'd dare to make more mistakes next time." - Nadine Stair


And here is another inspirational site you may like. It's my Autumn Inspiration Page on Squidoo.
Let me know what you think.

What things do YOU find inspiring and help you keep focused? List them after here in a comment.

Nontraditionally Yours,
-Betsyanne
 
Some Nontrad links: The Nontrad site and blog Join Nontrads on Facebook Nontrads on Yahoo Nontrads on Twitter

The Road Less Taken

Tweet

 The Road Not Taken
 I really like this poem "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost.

Here is the whole thing (from Wikipedia)

The Road Not Taken

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.
 
I didn't know about student loans when I was a student. I simply didn't go to see my advisor, because I thought I knew it all about school and the classes I wanted to take. Plus, I took some classes just because I wanted to.

Then I needed to graduate, and I had to see what I could do about that. So I graduated with a degree in English, and a minor in Art. This was not exactly what I wanted... I wanted to teach. But a teaching certificate was out of the question, because it was time to find a full-time job. Which I did.

Printing and newspaper work was really interesting, but I always wondered what teaching would have been like. So... MUCH later on, I actually took those teaching classes and tried it out.
I didn't want to be even older and say to myself, "why didn't I try that while I could?"

So I DID try it. It was not like I thought it would be, but I am so glad I did it. I learned so much, about teaching and the state of teaching today, AND about myself. I did it! And that felt so good.

Do you have a story like that? Have you stepped up and tried something out that used to only be a dream? Or maybe you have been on another road, and want to try The Road Not Taken, and now is the time you can finally do it, or have learned enough to help yourself actually DO it.

If you are trying something out and you have had a break from school, you CAN go back. Just listen to other people who have done it, and get some inspiration from that. You can also start a group at school and make friends there. Or join a Nontrad group. There are several listed at the end of this blog posting.

As Dr. Wayne Dyer says, "The Sky's The Limit." What's your story? Are you back in school, helping those who are, or thinking about going back?

Leave a comment!

Later,
-Betsyanne

Here are some Nontrad links: The Nontrad site and blog Join Nontrads on Facebook Nontrads on Yahoo Nontrads on Twitter 
Want to find out more about Dr. Wayne Dyer? Here is his website: http://www.drwaynedyer.com/
This beautiful photo is from Mimiliz at Morguefile: http://www.morguefile.com/creative/mimiliz. It does not look like this where I live... but some of the leaves are gently turning now, after a long Indian Summer.