IU freshmen strategy guide

It might be enjoyable to spend the day sleeping in your room, but you will eventually need to visit this place called class. After all, it's why you're here, right? \nRegardless of your answer, I would like to share with you some of my class tips; a "Tao of Higher Education" if you will. This column is aimed toward the rookie students, but I'm sure a few of us seasoned veterans could use a refresher.\nLet me start off by introducing myself. My name is Rory Starks and I am a junior. Although I should have some inkling of what I'd like to do in the future, I don't. I do know, however, that whatever I want to do, I still have class Monday. What's gotten me to where I am now is the following advice.\nThe most important thing you need to know here at campus is, well, campus. Familiarize yourself with as many buildings as possible. Of course, the most important buildings will be where your classes are. If you don't know where a certain building is, don't be afraid to ask an upperclassman. They will gladly point out that Ballantine Hall is at the far upper-northeast corner of campus. Okay, so it isn't there, but just learn the map.\nWhile going to class is important, it's what you take from class that counts. Taking notes is a good idea. So is reading them once in a while.\nDeveloping good study habits doesn't come easy for everybody, believe me. One thing I find helpful is group studying. For instance, you may have slept through a discussion on figuring anti-derivatives while one of your peers has a difficult time plotting graphs. If you are having a problem, hunt down students who possess the information you seek. It's almost like Highlander! There can only be one!\nSeriously, group studying is a great way to meet people, and you can also raise your grade point average in the process.\nI keep putting it off, but you knew I would mention it sooner or later. Procrastination. Yes, the bane of teenage existence will come back in full force during your college days. \nThere's nothing like the rush you get after staying up until 4 a.m. to finish a paper. Being charged up with enough caffeine to make a cow's heart explode has helped me through many a paper. I'd have to say Mountain Dew is my drink of choice. Dangerous drinks like Amp or Red Bull are used only in dire circumstances. Steer clear of these beverages unless you really need them. You can easily avoid this by managing your time better, just like I plan on doing…eventually.\nCommon sense can generally prepare you for anything you will encounter in class. If you feel bogged down by homework, talk to your instructor, but do so after class. If you have a cell phone, turn it off during class. I can't find any reason why a 17-minute ringtone of "In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida" would be appropriate in class. The Princeton Review might consider us the No. 1 party school, but we are a school nonetheless. Good luck in class next week newbies and have fun.