One of the most difficult degrees to pursue is an engineering degree.It can be very rewarding if you prepare well and learn how to succeed, at times it can seem almost impossible.You can use these tips and tricks to become a successful student.
Step 1: You should go to class.
Yes, every class.Don't miss class unless you absolutely have to because falling behind in engineering school is almost impossible to recover from.If you have to go to an event or are sick, try to never miss a class.Tailoring your class schedule is a top priority.Don't schedule a lecture at 8 am if you are not a morning person.This is the first step to success in engineering.
Step 2: Be attentive in class.
Don't mess around with your laptop if you use your phone to take notes.Paying attention to the flow of a lecture allows you to have a good understanding of the course material.Losing focus in a fast-paced class can leave you completely lost.If you want to relax when the class ends, make it a priority to focus for the entire period.It's easy to get distracted from lecture classes when you're tired and they last a long time.If you can, try to get to class on time.
Step 3: Take good notes.
It can all become a blur after a few lectures, but it might seem like you'll remember everything later.Good notes can help refresh your memory and study for exams.If the professor writes in your textbook, don't waste time copying it.You stop following the lecture if you become so focused on writing equations.Capture the professor's insights and examples that you can't find anywhere else.Depending on the class, take notes on a laptop or notebook.A laptop can be much faster when most of your notes are words.A good old fashioned notebook and pencil may be easiest when notes are mostly equations and drawings.Some people use tablets to make drawings.Try different options to see what works for you.
Step 4: Before class, read the material.
Most people need to see something several times to learn it, so give yourself a head start.It's a good idea to read the material in the day before the lecture.This will give you a foundation for what you'll hear in class and will help you feel more confident during a fast-paced lecture, so you can focus on deeper understanding instead of trying to keep up with the basics.Questions should be prepared in advance for parts that are confusing.Ask your questions during class if the lecture doesn't clarify the concepts for you.
Step 5: Ask questions.
Every student learns differently and professors are not perfect.Asking questions is one way to take charge of your own learning and ensure you get the information you need to succeed.When you interact with your professors, you get personalized assistance when you need it.Students in most cultures ask questions by raising their hand and asking the professor directly in class.Asking questions in class can be intimidating, but don't be afraid!If you are confused by something in the class, you will be doing others a favor by asking about it.You have the right to ask all the questions you need in order to learn the material.You can get one on one help if you missed the chance to speak with your professor during class.Teaching assistants may hold problem sessions in larger classes.It's a great way to get extra help and learn from other students.
Step 6: Outside of class is where you should study.
A good rule of thumb is to spend the same amount of time studying outside of class as you do in class.If you are taking a four credit class, you should spend at least four hours per week doing homework, reviewing material, and re-writing notes.You should adjust based on how long you need to learn the material.If you space out your study sessions you can be more effective.
Step 7: You can surround yourself with other engineering students.
Don't be afraid to ask for help, as collaboration is a key part of being an engineer.Get involved in the community of engineering students.You can join an engineering association in your school or community.A study group is a good place to find a study buddy.Studying with others is very valuable, whether you are quizzing each other, going over homework, or discussing questions about the lecture.Even one person can make a huge difference in a study group.Explaining your own thoughts to others will solidify your understanding, and you will learn from seeing how other students approach problems.Work in teams.A lot of the work you do as an engineer will be team oriented.The sooner you can learn to work in a team, the better.Being an engineer is difficult.The easier it will be if you have more people in your support network.Networking opportunities can be found in the relationships you form.
Step 8: Don't be stressed out.
In engineering school there will be times when you have a lot of exams in a single week.Stress reduces the effectiveness of your study time so prepare yourself ahead of time.Engineering students are going to be put in a lot of stress.Taking study breaks will help you relax and give you more time to study.One exam is not going to define you as an engineer.