Resources for Getting Organized for Success at the Start of the Semester

Looking to have a strong start of the semester? Check out these resources to get organized and mapped out for the semester.

1. Get the most out of your syllabi. Read through each syllabus, make note of how to best contact your instructors, where and when their office hours are, and look at the all the important dates in the course schedule. Consider printing or saving a copy of each of your syllabi in a centralized spot so you can easily reference them throughout the term.

 2. Map out the semester. Many students listed time management as one of their top 3 strategies in having a success semester. AND many people, not just students, mention that managing their time is something they are working on improving. It’s important to find a way of managing your time and tasks that works for you – it may take some trial and error. But here’s some ideas to get you started:

• Try out tools like the Shovel App. Not sure where to get started or looking for an app over a paper planner? Try out the Shovel App – now free for Purdue students! This tool is best used when you set it up at the beginning of the semester. It can help you identify when different school tasks can fit into you day and commitments, and it gives you feedback to help you improve your plan moving forward.
• Attend a workshop offered by the ASC to get some ideas and start taking action in a casual group environment.  "Plan Your Successful Semester" (Aug. 26 at 6 PM), "Resource Roadmap" (Sept. 3), and are the first two offered in the ASC (Wiley C215). Learn more about the workshops, our general workshop schedule, and register here. You can also keep up to date with ASC workshops and events by following us on Instagram @purdueasc.

3. Not sure where to start and want some support thinking through time management and organization options? You can meet 1-on-1 with an ASC staff member for a Study Skills Consultation. Whether it is getting support in setting up the Shovel app, learning about handouts and strategies, or thinking through what has and hasn’t worked in the past, the ASC consultants can help you find a starting point. Learn more and schedule a consultation here.

Check out Part 2 (coming week 2) that features more resources you can utilize throughout the semester!

Are there resources or organizational tips that really work for you? What’s one way you can set your future self up for success by planning out the semester during week 1?