Are you an average student wishing to be an academic superstar? You can be . . . by coping. No, not that kind. All you have to do is watch the super students you know and follow their lead.
Academic superstars go to class.
To imitate the pros, arrive in class on time, be alert and be ready to pay attention. If you know you’ll have to miss a class, get your assignments ahead of time and always make up missed work.
Academic superstars take notes sparingly.
If you spend every second writing, you’ll miss what the teacher says. Use abbreviations to make note-taking more efficient. For example, in a class on the Roman Empire, you might write R for Rome or Roman. After class, fill in details you don’t want to forget. Before your next class, look over your notes. This will remind you of what you already know and make new information easier to understand.
Academic superstars do their assignments.
Complete assignments in advance. To get the most out of class, complete reading assignments before the discussion of those pages. Also, ask questions in class. Get the answers and keep moving.
Academic superstars review before the test.
Whether you’re sitting on the bus, setting the table or waiting in the orthodontist’s office, use your brain to mentally review key facts. You can recite historical dates, rehearse a music score or go over complex equations, all without making a sound or moving a muscle. If you have imitated the traits of star students, you won’t ned to cram for the test. Review the information before you go to bed, get plenty of rest and eat a healthy breakfast. Look the part by arriving on time dressed in clothes that make you feel confident. Then do your best!
Study Help!
The Bible has a lot to say about what it takes to be an academic superstar. Take a look.
Academic success takes sacrifice.
“Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding” (Proverbs 4:7). A person who wants to gain knowledge may have to give up free time or fun activities, but the sacrifice is worth it.
Academic success takes discipline.
“Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge . . . One who is slack in his work is brother to one who destroys” (Proverbs 12:1, 18:9). Doing well in school requires hard work and commitment. If you become slack in your good habits, the Bible says you are destroying your hard work.
Academic success takes support.
“He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm” (Proverbs 13:20). To succeed in school, you must surround yourself with people who support your efforts, such as parents, teachers and godly friends. Stay away from slackers and kids who don’t care about their grades.
Academic success comes from God.
“For the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Proverbs 2:6). Your goal for academic success should always be a part of your greater goal to glorify God. Only He can grant you true success.
