Just Around The Corner

Each graduation ceremony, as I listen to Pomp and Circumstance, I think of some of the challenges students encountered during their matriculation. Knowing that each student marching in the graduation processional overcame those challenges is a source of pride. It is another piece of evidence that despite the challenges faced in college these graduates will persist in achieving their goals. What are the challenges you are experiencing today? How may TAN help you to achieve your goals? Drop us a line. The end of the semester is just around the corner.

Textbook Reading Strategies

When reading your textbooks, begin with the end in mind. Here are six steps.

 Step 1:

Answer the following questions:
  1.      Why are you reading this information?
  2.      What grade do you intend to make in this course?
  3.      What guidelines regarding this information were provided by your syllabus and instructor?
  4.      What do you hope to achieve?
  5.      Do you know any information about the subject matter?
  6.      How much time did you schedule to read the information and take notes?

 Step 2:

Take a few minutes to scan the assigned chapter(s). Be sure to:

a.       View chapter titles, paragraph titles, and chapter summaries to obtain an overview of the information you will cover in your reading;

b.      Turn your titles/headings into questions and record these questions;

c.       Seek to find the answers to your questions;

d.      Examine charts, tables or other tools which simplify the information being presented; and

5. Identify words which are bold, italicized, or underlined.

Step 3:

Read to answer the questions you wrote and to obtain a better understanding of the information.

Step 4:

Next, try to answer the questions you wrote while scanning and reading the chapter to identify how much information you remember.

Step 5:

Spend time reviewing your notes and creating simple ways to remember the important information identified.

Step 6:

Test your knowledge on the information read.

Wants vs Needs

Do not let the cold temperatures interrupt achieving your goals. Yes, sometimes outside is so cold that you want to snuggle up in bed. However, keep your true goals ahead of you and remember that your wants do not always help you to fulfill your needs. So...
...keep attending classes;
...keep attending tutorial sessions;
...keep your designated study times; and
...dress warmly so that you are not distracted by the low temperatures.

Keep focused on your success. Your life goals are worth it!

Spring 2012

Recently, one of the TAN tutors visited the office to share a few words of encouragement with me. We chatted for a few minutes, focusing on the importance of attitude. During our conversation, we agreed that a positive attitude is one of the contributing factors to achieving your goals. This semester, evaluate how you have achieved true success in the past and identify the people who are able to serve as your success partners. The TAN team is ready to assist you. Our team members want to be your success partners. Call us today at 256-372-5487.

TAN looks forward to a great semester with you! Be sure to read our Tip of The Day and Student Reflections.

Education

Working on a University campus is a very rewarding experience. Each day I have opportunities to converse with students regarding their plans for the future and to hear about different experiences which have shaped their lives. I gain a better understanding of how I may be of assistance when students share their motivations for attending college, why they chose their majors, and the challenges they are experiencing. Many students describe their goals with passion and have outlined a clear map on how to achieve their goals. Others need someone to listen for a while so that they may share some of the challenges they are facing and design a plan to accomplish their goals. The common denominator is the willingness to listen. I must listen to what the students share they need, and identify the role(s) students envision I will take in helping them succeed. In turn, I benefit. I am able to assist by matching students with tutors, directing them to applicable resources, sharing information which may help in the decision making process, and clarifying misconceptions. The reward--empowered students who see that their goals and dreams are possible; and students who recognize the power of their voice and the power of a solid education.

One of my favorite authors wrote, "True education is the preparation of the physical, mental, and moral powers for the performance of every duty; it is the training of body, mind, and soul for divine service.” Every student has been called to perform a special work in this world. Today, I celebrate Alabama A & M University students, their dedication to facing the challenges of achieving a true education, and the work they will accomplish across the globe.

Are You Missing Out?

Too often I speak with students who share that they meant to attend tutoring or SI sessions, but never got around to actually attending. Sadly, their comments are shared when we discuss poor course performance or last minute attempts to help them pass a course. Today, I want to encourage everyone to consider obtaining a tutor, establishing a study group, or attending an SI session. You do not have to wait until you are in trouble. If you lack understanding of a concept, have a C or below in any of your courses, feel completely lost, or realize that you need to brush up on your study, time management or test-taking skills seek help now. Mid-terms are over.... Finals are coming.... Positive course and academic outcomes are within your grasp. Take the first step--NOW!

It's Homecoming. Chart a path to bring "home" the best grades! I am available to chat via telephone (256-372-5487) or email (linda.skeete@aamu.edu). Your success is my top priority. Tell me how I may help you.

Appointment Tutoring

Sometimes it helps to review course material with someone who has already taken the course. With busy schedules, it also helps to have a time set aside to do this which is consistent from week to week. This is called appointment tutoring. By calling the TAN office, you are able to reserve time with a tutor to work on concepts which are unclear or which need practice.

TAN currently provides consistent appointment tutoring for ACC 203, ECO 200, 231 and 232, HIS 101-102, ENG 100-204, MTH 100-126, PHY 101, CHE 101-102, BIO 100, 101 and 103, MIS 213 and 315, EDU 150, FRE 101-202, SPA 101-202. We have weekly SI sessions available for CHE 101, MTH 112, MTH 113, MTH 125, PHY 105 and PHY 106.Select the SI schedule on the FA '11 SI schedule tab for details. Also, we will soon have tutoring available for MTH 227-238, BIO 102L, ECO 271; and Computer Science, Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering courses. Do you need help with a particular course? Call TAN today at 256-372-5487 and give us the opportunity to assist you. Our team would love to work with you.