Workshop Descriptions

Workshop 1: Study Like a Boss
 

What is “studying”? What do successful students do when they study? When should you be studying, and how often? And should you study the same way and in the same amount for every class? Learn the basics of 'active learning' and how to use it to your advantage! You’ve mastered active learning, now see how the most effective form of active learning -- self-testing -- can be used with spaced repetition to build retention. Workshop topics include:

​

​* Curating Your Study Plan

*9 Research-based effective active learning habits and study techniques

*How to create a study plan based on Ebbinghaus' Curve of Forgetting

* Spaced Repetition and Self-Testing: The Two Pillars of Memory and Retention

* The Tech Effect: Educational Tools for Studying

Workshop 2: Ace Your Exams
 

Do you feel like you’re a bad test taker? You’re not alone. Learn research-based strategies to help you build your confidence and improve outcomes on exams! Students will:

​

​* Understand the best strategies for tackling different question types, including multiple-choice, true/false, short answer and essays

* Develop effective time management strategies to ensure completion of all sections within the exam's time limits without rushing

* Learn how to analyze questions carefully, eliminate incorrect options, and prioritize key information for more accurate responses.

* Learn how to make educated guesses on difficult questions to maximize points even when unsure of the answer

* Learn mental strategies to overcome test anxiety and how to stay calm, focused, and confident throughout the exam

Workshop 3: Using Artificial Intelligence to Help You Study

​

In today’s digital age, artificial intelligence (AI) tools can be game-changers for college students. This workshop is designed to help new students harness the power of AI apps to study smarter, stay organized, and excel in their courses. Students will:

​

* Explore a variety of AI tools that can help you manage your time, take better notes, and even improve your study habits

* Learn about AI-powered planners that track deadlines and assignments to smart note-taking apps that organize your class material

* Learn how to integrate these tools into your daily routine

* Learn about AI apps that help with writing, such as grammar checkers, citation generators, and tools for brainstorming ideas

* How AI can create personalized study schedules, break down complex topics, and even generate practice quizzes for exam prep

* How to stay organized with AI-driven task managers, which can help you juggle assignments, exams, and personal commitments without feeling overwhelmed.

​

By the end of the workshop, you’ll feel empowered to use AI as a resource to streamline your college experience, improve your productivity, and ultimately achieve academic success. Join us and discover how technology can work for you!

Workshop 4: Mastering Your College Syllabus For Success

Starting college can be a lot to handle, and figuring out how to make sense of your syllabus might feel like a challenge. But don’t worry—this workshop is here to help! We’ll walk you through how to read and understand your syllabus, turning it into your go-to guide for staying on top of your classes. In this workshop, you will learn:

* How to identify the important parts of a syllabus such as grading policies, exam dates, and assignment deadlines—and use this info to stay organized and ahead of the game.

* How to plan your semester by breaking down weekly schedules and reading lists. 

*Students will learn strategies to manage their time effectively by understanding assignment deadlines, exam schedules, and course milestones

*Tips on staying organized, setting academic goals, and creating a personalized study plan based on syllabus details

​

Whether you’re struggling to understand how to use the syllabus or simply want to become a more organized and proactive student, this workshop will equip you with the tools you need to excel. By the end, you'll walk away with the confidence to navigate your coursework and set yourself up for success throughout the semester. Join us and unlock the key to thriving in college!

Workshop 5: Communicating & Self-Advocacy With Professors 

​

Navigating college means learning how to communicate effectively with your professors and teaching assistants (TAs)—key people who can help you succeed. This workshop is designed to give new college students the tools and confidence to communicate clearly, ask for help, and advocate for themselves in their courses.

​

We’ll cover the basics of professional communication including:

* Professional email etiquette

* Why it's important to speak up in class

* How to approach professors and TAs with confidence, whether you need clarification on an assignment, are struggling with course material, or want to discuss your academic progress.

* How to advocate for your needs and rights in an academic setting including how to ask for accommodations, request extensions when necessary, and approach difficult conversations in a respectful, proactive way.

* Tips on building positive relationships with your professors and TAs, making it easier to ask questions and seek support throughout the semester.

​

By the end of the session, you’ll feel more confident in your ability to reach out for help, express your needs, and take charge of your academic experience. Join us to learn how to make the most of your college relationships and set yourself up for success!