[F1] LOOKING FOR THE HELP DESK

 By: Dr. Armãndo R. Tolliver | MENTOR | December 17, 2012
               It is Winter Break, time to chill out and warm up to your next semester. Whether you are on your way to a favorite vacation spot or embarking on what is left of holiday break excitement. Make sure school and next semester's classes are on your agenda. It is always good to know how to make your next semester a success.

First thing first, as a high school or college student it is imperative to choose classes that suit you, and find out about those mandatory classes that you need to graduate. Make sure that you start of right your very first day of school. BE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN LEARNING. Pay attention and participate in class. Ask your teacher for help if you do not understand something. Go and get help with your homework. Keep track of due dates and study until “you know it”. The worst thing is not knowing and being behind. It is always good to challenge yourself; you should not ever take things below your level. If you have problems speak with your counselor or advisor about choosing the right classes.

Next, arrive to class prepared. Going to your locker or running to your car for forgotten things means you MISS OUT on explanations, directions, and MUCH MORE while you are gone. Also, remember to always be on time, consequences come from being late. Speaking of time, complete all homework correctly and on time. Points on completed homework assignments can balance a lower test score, PLUS doing homework is a way to practice with the information you need to know. You will do better on the test. Additionally, put all assignments and handouts INTO a binder. Keeping organized will make it so you can complete assignments on time, have the information you need to study, and have the resources you will need for the semester.


          As a study tip, write out your vocabulary definitions or math formulas. Writing these out ahead of time will help you begin to learn what the words or equations mean, leading to an “easy A” for every chapter. Answering study guide or review questions at the end of a section is a way to practice what you need to know for the test. REALLY STUDY FOR TESTS. Study a little each night. Do not wait until the night before the test to start.  Do not just read your book over and over. You need to work with the information and practice answering questions, PRACTICE UNTIL YOU KNOW IT!

Another good tip is to develop a relationship with your teachers. Often times we do not feel like we have to speak to one another, but “Good morning” and “Thank you” go a long way. A decent relationship allows you to be more one on one with your instructors, and if you have a problem they are more willing to help you.

Throughout life there will be many obstacles that you will go through, do not allow your personal or at home problems interfere with your education. You should try speaking with friends about your situations, maybe even a school administrator or counselor. Do not focus on what others think of you, you must only be yourself. Never, ever, solve anything with violence it only makes matters more complicated, often times worsening the situation. Look at it this way, "homicide"= killing someone else, "suicide"= killing yourself, "decide"= killing future decisions. One mistake can send you behind the others, and those ugly skeletons in your closet can haunt you in the future.

It is always a good idea to get involved within your school and participate in after school activities or school clubs. Great clubs and organizations are everywhere; it is just a matter of becoming a part of them. Being an active member of a club or organization helps to show your commitment to your school or community by displaying leadership skills, character, and service. A significant club is one that has an objective that suits your desire and can be enjoyed.

Above all else, you should have a commitment to learning and becoming a part of the best of this nation’s future. Have the drive to continue your academic achievement and motivation to serve and succeed. Education is an instructive or enlightening experience that prepares us for the future. It is one of the most prominent aspects of life. Incorporated within life is the ability to take risk. In the beginning, they are our instinct. We learn to crawl despite the bruises on our knees and elbows. We learn to walk despite the many falls we endure, as we get older and gain a greater consciousness of the world around us. Somewhere along the way we are presented with failure, at that point, many people try to eliminate most risk from their lift. Where would we be without our sense of exploration, our willingness to try new things despite the pitfalls that await us? That attitude is characteristic of all great things and innovators in our nation.

Suggested Citation
Tolliver, Armãndo. (2012). [F1] Looking for the help desk. [Education Project Online]. Retrieved online at http://www.educationprojectonline.com/2012/12/f1-looking-for-help-desk.html