mesa legend - NEWS - Time’s running out to suck up to teachers

December 6, 2005
NEWS

Time’s running out to suck up to teachers

Kim Meurer
Mesa Legend

As the fall semester at Mesa Community College comes to an end, students are buckling down for yet another finals week. However, there are programs on campus that provide information on improving study habits and managing stress.
“One thing I really believe in is practice tests,” said David John, a math professor at Red Mountain and panelist at a Phi Beta hosted lecture titled “Surviving College.”
Each panelist at the “Surviving College” discussion agreed anxiety about tests can be reduced by getting to know the professor.
“You need to have a one-on-one dialogue with your instructor,” said panelist Derek Borman, a psychology professor at Red Mountain, “not only to get a better score but to know the teacher is not out to get you.”
“Knowing what your learning style is will help you prepare for a test,” said panelist Kelley Stewart.
While some students memorize the class material by reading the text, others need visuals such as pictures and graphs. Stewart said students must find what works for them.
All of the panelists agreed the amount of time students study is crucial to their success. Stewart suggested no more than 30 minutes at a time with 10 minute breaks. A student who studies for hours at a time will begin to pass over important information because the text becomes monotonous.
The panelists advised students to never study in bed or in a slouched position because it promotes laziness. Students should study in a manner that is right for them, the manner that yields the best results.
“I’m in my room with music, very loud, in comfortable clothes. It can’t be quiet at all or I can’t think,” MCC student, Kaeli Czarnota said.
“Take notes in your book. I see few students develop a relationship with their book,” said psychology teacher, Derek Borman. During finals week, students have experienced elevated stress levels. On Nov. 17, the Student Opportunities for Success Workshop series hosted a lecture entitled “Taking Care of Yourself: Managing Your Stressors” for both students and teachers at the Southern and Dobson campus.
Dan White was the speaker at this lecture and his advice can be applied to surviving finals week.
“The stress goes away when you realize you are not here to compete against others but here to compete against your self,” White said.
White advised his audience to prioritize their tasks and have a plan when facing stressful times. Students often feel pressure from friends, family and work to spend time with them.
“Have the ability to say no, I can’t do that,” White said.
Students building up their stress about finals and studying at the last minute will experience the wrong results.
White explained stress is also a physical issue, causing sleep deprivation, headaches, change in appetite, and ulcers.
White suggests relaxation and deep breathing to remedy stress.