Learning Strategies Reflection Paper

As a college student here at the University of Southern Mississippi, I realized that in high school, I did not have to study as hard as I do now that I am in college. Usually, I would be able to study the day before the test and score a hundred percent. Although, occasionally, I would be able to skip a few classes and get the notes from a classmate or of course, resort to guessing. However, now that I am in college, the lectures require much more attentiveness and are more complex. Composing more information, meaning that one has to proportion time more responsibly and take an advantage of good study habits. My learning skills have made a complete transformation since I have been in college. I learned new things and I actually enjoy learning new things. Nevertheless, these changes required a lot of self-control and practice. Going through these experiences have changed my entire persona about learning such as study habits, being more attentive during classes, and going through greater extents to succeed in certain classes. Starting college has affected many of my habits, mainly study habits. The first couple months of classes has went by so smoothly and I felt like I was adjusting fine. I attended class regularly and took notes from the lectures. I knew that college was different than high school but I continued with the norm. Now, that its time for mid-term grades to be posted, I have realized that College required more time management and consistency within the study habits. Thinking about my mid-term grades has changed my mind set. I need to designate certain days of the week for “study time” for each class hoping for improvement. Another area that high school and college contrast in is my attentiveness during classes. In high school, the teachers were strict about different classroom policies, but mainly about cell phones. It was prohibited for students to have phones in class due to all the distractions it may cause. I would text in class and drift from the lesson. In College, even though it’s more laid back it requires more attentiveness. I try not to text from time to time. I understand now that this may take part in the down fall of my grades. Eventually, being more attentive in class, and remaining consist with the “study time” days will help improve my grades for the most part.
Finally the biggest difference between high school and college is aid toward becoming better prepared for the new material. My high school did not have free tutoring, though the teachers sometime would offer to help. Even though I was the type to work independently on my work, I was extremely hesitant about letting a person know that I needed help. Since College requires critical thinking and the material can be difficult, I have stepped out of my comfort zone and began to seek for help. For example, I use the Writing Center for my English class material. I have grown too asked for help when it is needed. This is another way I am improving.