Off to a Good Start: Helpful Tips for the Start of Term

As we head into the first few weeks here in the College of Nursing, we want to make sure that you are doing what you can to be a successful student. Starting the semester off right is essential to finishing the term strong and earning good marks.

It's tough to come to terms with the long, luxurious summer being over. Blue, sunny skies have been replaced with changing leaves and gray clouds; lazy beach Sundays are now there-isn't-enough-time-for-all-this-work library days. To help ease the transition from summer to schoolwork, here are a few tips to help you start off another (or maybe your first!) semester at NYU.

1. Read your syllabi! It may sound obvious, but make sure you attend the first day of class and go over your syllabi. Everything you need to know will be somewhere in this important document, so make sure to spend some time reading it over and learning about the layout (scheduling, attendance, grading) of your classes.

2. Get organized! Buy a planner or update your Google Calendar with your NetID. Whatever you prefer to use, just make sure you use something! Update your planner with all the assignment and test dates in your classes. Being organized makes for more efficient time use and less unwanted surprises.

3. Go to class! This one is simple. Just because you can miss class doesn’t mean you should. It may be tempting to get an extra hour of sleep, but skipping class is the easiest way to fall behind. You pay tuition, so get your money’s worth!

4. Talk to your Professors! Whether it is after class or during office hours, professors at NYU love to talk to their students. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re falling behind, as many professors are willing to spend extra time with you to help get you where you need to be.

5. Get involved! NYU has hundreds of clubs and activities for you to get involved in. Whatever your interests are, there is sure to be a group of students that are interested in the same thing. Joining clubs is a great way to meet new people and to simply unwind from the stress of schoolwork.

6. Explore the City! NYU students have the unique opportunity to be in and of New York City, one of the greatest places in the world. There is always something to do in the city no matter what you are interested in. There are concerts, museums, zoos—and discount deals on all of the above for those who know where to look. Make sure to check out and sign up for NYU TicketCentral’s mailing list for tickets to exclusive shows and events.