Getting back on track – Your guide to academic success #HereAtSAIT

A student in a wood working lab

Whether you are new to SAIT or a returning student, achieve academic success by unlocking the resources and services available at the Lamb Learner Success Centre.

The beginning of a new semester is an opportunity to recalibrate your academic compass and set your heading toward success. Your guiding light? The LAMB Learner Success Centre. Located in MC221, Stan Grad Centre, the Lamb Learner Success Centre is designed to provide you with personalized guidance, interactive workshops and tailored resources to help you stay on top of your coursework. Thanks to SAIT's Learning Strategists, we have five tips to get you started, and don’t forget to book an appointment with a Learning Strategist for one-on-one support.

Tip for success #1: Learn how to master your time.

Start the term off right by mastering the art of time management, the key to levelling up your semester. Take charge by creating a calendar system tailored to your preference, whether that’s a physical paper planner or digital platform. Using this calendar system, take notes for each course’s key dates including class times, assignment due dates, quizzes and exams. After this, mark down when you’ll need start working on each assignment or preparing for each test or exam. This approach will help you stay organized and easily see when you need to start working on each task. Good time management skills are crucial to avoid procrastination, boost confidence and always feel on the ball.

Pro tip -> Remember to purchase your books early and save your course schedules for a comprehensive overview of each class.

Tip for success #2: Don’t wait, ask for help!

If you find yourself grappling with assignments or landing a grade that falls below your expectations, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance pronto. Whether it’s through a Learning Strategist or accessing online resources, help is available. By keeping tabs on your marks, you can determine how you're doing throughout the semester, address challenges early on and seek support if necessary. Regularly assess your performance with SAIT's grade tracker to help you set realistic goals, identify trends and stay on top of your academic game!

Tip for success #3: Use your course outline and learning objectives as a guide.

Just like a map, your course outlines and learning objectives are there to guide you through the topics and expectations within each class. Peek at what's ahead by reviewing your course outline and learning objectives, and you'll be ready for whatever comes your way.

Tip: use your learning objectives as a study guide to prepare for an upcoming exam or quiz. This way, you know your efforts are focused on the key concepts and skills essential for assessments.

Tip for success #4: Go through your notes after each class.

Level up your understanding by reviewing your notes after each class. This process includes cleaning up and reorganizing your notes, ensuring they remain clear and concise and filling in any gaps in understanding. Going through this process after each class allows you to revisit the material, refine your understanding and stay on top of your classes.

Tip for success #5: Study a little bit each day.

Consistent and regular study habits promote long-term memory retention, which is important for recalling information successfully on exams. If this isn't possible, remember to start preparing at least one week in advance rather than cramming for a test the day before. Remember, we want to encourage long-term information storage, so you'll remember the content during exams and throughout your academic journey.

Explore the academic supports available by checking out the Back on Track workshop, academic success seminars or booking an appointment with a Learning Strategist.