#gomaynooth

So, semester two has officially started. Where did the first semester go, am I right? Here are just a few of my top tips that I have learned from my time in college.

The first thing that I recommend to do is to look at the past exam papers. It may seem weird to think about doing this at the start of the semester, but it can be a life saver. Take a note of the topics that come up regularly and when you get to that topic in the semester go and do an exam question on it. This cuts down the work you have to do during the exam time and will leave you feeling less stressed.

If you are a language student (like myself), be sure to practise speaking the language as often as possible, no matter how confident you feel in the language. Most language subjects have an oral at the end of this semester so it’s no use in practising at the end. If you study Irish be sure to head to the seomra na Gaeilge as often as possible to get some practise in, and even if you don’t study Irish pop in some time and learn some new phrases!

Make sure to mind your mental and physical health. Try to avoid drinking too much alcohol, no matter how tempting it may be. If the hustle and bustle of college life becomes too much take twenty minutes out and go and relax in the silence of the quiet room, located in the arts building. If you’re feeling like you need someone to talk to take advantage of the numerous free services available to all Maynooth students, such as the budgeting service, the writing centre, the career development centre, the Student’s Union, the math’s support centre and many, many more.

Get organised and avoid procrastination. I know this is easier said than done but leaving an assignment to the night before- or even the day of- is never a good idea. It only causes unnecessary stress. As well as this, try to keep on top of your notes, even if it means taking some time after each lecture and looking over your notes and making sure they’re in order, you will thank yourself when it comes to exam season.

Use the office hours/know your class rep. If you’re struggling with an issue, or there’s a certain thing that you’re unclear of within a module then go and use the lecturer’s office hours. If you’re having a bigger academic issue then contact your class rep who will (hopefully) resolve the issue for you.

I have left the most important tip until last, and that is to attend class. This may seem obvious but it’s something that is often neglected. If you do nothing else but attend class you’re doing well! Drag yourself out of bed for that 9am, go to that lecture you hate, attend the tutorial you find pointless. At the end of the day, there’s likely to be at least one class that you don’t like, which is inevitable but attendance is key and can make or break your grades.

These are just some of my top tips for a successful semester. Let me know if you have any other tips!

Grá mór,