MGA Staff Q&A: Getting Your Semester Off To A Strong Start

Author: Sheron Smith
Posted: Tuesday, August 6, 2024 12:00 AM
Categories: School of Aviation | Faculty/Staff | School of Health and Natural Sciences | School of Business | Students | School of Computing | School of Education and Behavioral Sciences | School of Arts and Letters | Pressroom

Cochran, GA

Heads up, Middle Georgia State University students! Fall semester 2024 classes begin on August 14! Want some advice on getting off to a strong academic start and finishing the semester well? Here to provide some tips on that and related topics is Brock Giddens, director of the University’s Student Success Center.  

What are some key strategies students can use to start the semester strong academically?

Starting the semester strong is crucial for academic success, and there are strategies that students can use to set themselves up for a productive and rewarding term. Here are five key strategies that students can use to start off the semester successfully and build a solid foundation for academic achievement.

1. Attend Class: Class attendance is a great predictor of college grades. Students who do not attend class miss vital information taught by professors, which can hurt their performance on homework, exams, and projects. Further, students cannot always rely on other students because the person they ask for notes might omit or misinterpret essential information. By attending class, you will gain a better understanding of the content and can clarify questions that you have right away.
2. Establish Effective Time Management: Implement time management techniques to balance academic responsibilities with other activities. Prioritize tasks and allocate specific time slots for studying, attending classes, and personal activities. Employ techniques such as the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. Use time-blocking or the Pomodoro Technique to stay focused and productive.
3. Meet Your Professors: Try to meet your professors early in the semester, during office hours or after class, to build a rapport and clarify any questions you might have about the course.
4. Utilize Academic Resources: Take advantage of campus resources such as libraries, academic resource centers, and academic advising. These resources can provide additional support and help you succeed in your courses.
5. Prioritize Self-Care: Balance your academic responsibilities with self-care. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat healthily, and engage in physical activity. Managing stress and maintaining your well-being are essential for academic success. Visit  MGA’s Recreation and Wellness  facilities for ways to keep up your physical wellness.

What resources does MGA offer to help students who might be struggling in their classes?

Middle Georgia State University (MGA) provides a range of resources to support students who might need additional support both in and outside of the classroom. Do not hesitate to ask for help if you are struggling with a topic or need additional support. Reach out to professors, academic advisors, or counseling services if you need assistance. Students are encouraged to take advantage of these services as soon as they identify any difficulties in their classes and beyond. Here are key resources offered by MGA.

1. Student Success Center : The Student Success Center (SSC) offers various resources to help students succeed academically, including Academic Success Coaching, tutoring in various subjects, workshops, and individualized support. Students can receive one-on-one or group tutoring, which can help clarify course material and improve understanding. Services offered by the SSC are available both face to face and online.
2. Writing Center : The Writing Center offers help with writing assignments across all disciplines. Students can get assistance with brainstorming, drafting, and revising papers, as well as help with grammar, style, and citation.
3. Math Academic Resource Center (MARC) : The MARC offers support for students taking math courses. It provides tutoring and resources to help students grasp mathematical concepts and solve problems.
4. Academic Advising : Academic advisors assist students with course selection, degree planning, and academic challenges. They can provide guidance on how to address specific academic issues and help students develop strategies for improvement.
5. Peer Mentoring : The Roundtable Peer Mentoring program assists students with their academic and personal acclimation to Middle Georgia State University. The primary areas of focus are connecting students with resources for success, connecting students to the MGA community to foster a sense of belonging and to model and teach good study habits, creating a positive growth mindset.
6. Library Services : University libraries offer research assistance, study spaces, and access to academic resources that can aid students in their coursework and research projects.
7. Counseling Services : Counseling services are available for students who may be experiencing emotional or psychological difficulties. These services can help students manage stress, anxiety, and other issues that might impact their academic performance. Additional information can also be found on MGA’s BeWell webpage.
8. Accessibility Services : For students with documented disabilities, the Office of Accessibility Services provides accommodation and support to ensure equal access to educational opportunities.
9. Online Resources : MGA provides access to a range of online learning tools and resources through its learning management system, D2L, which includes access to course materials, supplemental learning resources, and communication tools for students to interact with their instructors and peers.

How can students maintain a healthy work-life balance, especially during the busy start of the semester?

Managing both personal life and academic responsibilities are familiar challenges for most college students. Finding a healthy work-life balance is crucial for achieving success in college and in your well-being. These tips offer advice for students to balance these areas effectively.

1. Set Clear Boundaries: Establish distinct boundaries between academic work and personal life. Designate specific times and spaces for studying and relaxation and avoid letting academic tasks interfere with your personal time. By maintaining a sustainable workload, you will enhance your focus and productivity while preventing burnout caused by excessive stress.
2. Create a Balanced Schedule: Design a weekly plan that includes class times, study sessions, personal activities, and downtime. Use a planner or digital calendar to allocate time for both academic and personal commitments, ensuring a structured yet flexible routine.
3. Prioritize Self-Care: Incorporate regular self-care practices into your routine, such as getting adequate sleep, eating healthy, and engaging in physical activity. Allocate time for relaxation and hobbies to maintain your overall well-being. By practicing good self-care, you can help manage the inevitable challenges of life, including the academic, social, and financial stress you’ll likely experience during college. 
4. Utilize Campus Resources: Take advantage of academic support services and counseling offered by MGA. Reach out to our academic success coaches, academic advisors, or mental health services to help manage stress and academic pressures effectively.

What advice do you have for students to build a supportive social network on campus?

Developing relationships and building a support network is an important aspect of the college experience. Building relationships and spending face-to-face time with other students, staff, and faculty, can help students find balance and can aid in academic success. Here are tips on building a supportive network on campus.

1. Join Clubs and Organizations: Participate in clubs, societies, or organizations that align with your interests. This is a fantastic way to meet like-minded people. MGA offers over 140 clubs and organizations to choose from. A full listing of clubs and organizations can be found HERE.
2. Attend Campus Events: Go to events, workshops, and social gatherings organized by your college. These events provide opportunities to meet new people in a relaxed setting. MGA event listings can be found HERE.
3. Use social media and Campus Apps: Engage with your peers on social media platforms or campus-specific apps. These can help you stay informed about events and activities and find study groups or social circles. For more information regarding campus safety, you may also download the Rave Guardian Mobile Safety App HERE.
4. Take Advantage of Dorm Activities: If you live in a dorm, participate in dorm activities and programs. These activities are designed to foster a sense of community among residents.
5. Be Yourself: Authenticity is key to building meaningful relationships. Be yourself and seek out friends who appreciate you for who you are.

Brock Giddens is the director of the Student Success Center for Middle Georgia State University. In this role, he oversees the Student Success Centers (SSC) across all five campuses, which provide essential support and resources to enhance students' academic achievements, retention, and progression.

The SSCs offer a variety of services including Academic Success Coaching, Supplemental Instruction, Embedded tutoring, Peer tutoring and in-person and online academic skills workshops. The centers feature professional and peer tutors who are trained and certified by the College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA), ensuring high-quality assistance for students.