Attendance
In some countries, all that matters in university courses is passing the exams at the end of the semester and you may skip as many classes as you want. In the U.S., the process of learning is valued as highly as the outcomes, so some professors may consider your class attendance in your grade. Most professors will have an attendance policy outlined in their syllabus.
Assignments
You will have homework. Some will be reading and preparing for discussion, some will be written assignments you turn in at certain deadlines. Expect homework!
Plagiarism
In the United States, plagiarism is taken very seriously, especially in academic and professional settings. It involves using someone else’s work, ideas, or expressions without proper acknowledgement, which can be considered a form of intellectual theft. Even unintentional failure to cite sources correctly can be seen as plagiarism. This is why it’s crucial to understand the nuances of quoting, paraphrasing, and citing sources to avoid any form of plagiarism.
In academic writing, plagiarism can include:
- Copying text word-for-word without quotation marks and citation.
- Paraphrasing without proper acknowledgment.
- Providing incorrect citation details.
- Overusing quotations even with citations.
- Submitting work previously presented for another assignment without citation.
- Using a paper written by someone else
While plagiarism is not illegal under federal law, it is considered an ethical violation and can lead to serious consequences such as disciplinary action from educational institutions or workplaces.
Studying Effectively
To maintain a high-grade point average, you must study effectively. This does not mean you must spend every waking moment bent over a desk; it means you must make the most of the time you set aside for study. Use the syllabus you receive from each professor to plan your study time. Most of your study will be reading assignments from the textbook for the next day’s lecture. Do not wait until the last minute or fall behind! Remember, it’s not just about the hours you put in, but how effectively you use them.
It’s all about quality over quantity. Here are some tips to enhance your study sessions:
- Plan Ahead: Use your syllabus to create a study schedule, allocating specific times for each subject.
- Active Reading: Engage with the material by taking notes, highlighting key points, and summarizing sections in your own words.
- Regular Review: Regularly go over your notes to reinforce the material and aid retention.
- Study Groups: Join or form study groups to discuss concepts and learn from peers.
- Healthy Balance: Ensure you take breaks, exercise, and get enough sleep to keep your mind fresh.
Taking Notes
Most professors use the lecture form of instruction. You need to learn to take notes effectively. As the professor speaks on a topic, write down the important points he or she makes. If you have a professor who talks too fast, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification! Professors want you to succeed in their courses.
Here are some tips to enhance your note-taking abilities:
- Listen actively and identify the main ideas and supporting details.
- Develop a shorthand system to keep up with fast speakers.
- Use visual aids like diagrams or concept maps to capture complex information.
- Review and revise your notes soon after the lecture to reinforce learning.
- Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you need clarification.
Remember, professors appreciate engaged and proactive students, so never shy away from seeking a better understanding of the material.
Testing
Exams are much more frequent in the U.S. than in many universities around the world. You may have classes which give an exam every week. Most of the tests you take and virtually all the quizzes are “objective.” They measure your knowledge of a topic by asking questions which have specific answers.
Many of you will also face “subjective” tests. These exams provide you a question (or choice of questions) to which you respond with a short answer or an essay.
Textbooks
When you arrive at NMJC and enroll in classes, you will need to get books for your classes. Your textbooks can be purchased at the Bookstore found in the Ben Alexander Center (BAC).
Tutoring
If you feel like you are not understanding or falling behind in classes, don’t wait too long before you go to tutoring. The sooner you get help with your studies, the faster you can get back on track. Tutoring can be found in the Academic Success Center in Mansur Hall Room 124 for FREE!
Talking to Your Professors
In many educational systems around the world, the role of the student is simple: memorize the information given by the teacher. Your professors will expect you to attend class, ask questions, and be an active participant inside and outside of the classroom.
Some intercultural students come from educational systems where speaking to the professor during or after class is not acceptable. In the U.S., most professors want you to talk. There is more interaction in classrooms in the U.S. than in most classrooms worldwide. Many instructors include class participation when determining grades and will reduce your grade if you do not participate in class. Ask questions and participate in class discussions. Professors often think silence from a student means that she is not interested or does not care about the course.
Professors also have “office hours,” a regular time when they are available in their offices to talk with students. You should take advantage of these times to visit your professors even if you are doing well in class. Most teachers enjoy talking with students in a relaxed atmosphere, and they will know from your visit that you are interested in their course. If you are having trouble in a class, talk with the professor; most are willing to help you in any way they can.
