27 Aug Advice for starting a new school year: what Educators have to say

10 pieces of advice for starting a new school year: what Educators have to say

A new school year brings new teachers, professors, classmates, and tons of new opportunities to get involved. Feeling excited? Maybe a little overwhelmed? Not sure what to expect?

Don’t worry – we’ve got your back! Shireen Jaffer, Founder at Skillify talked to educators who have seen new students come and go year after year, and asked them what piece of advice they have to share with students starting at a new school, or simply starting a new school year.

Jody Tolan, Professor of Business at USC shares:

“Don’t be afraid to go sit with your professor even just for 15 minutes at the beginning of the semester.  Come with 1-2 questions, then let the conversation flow onto other topics of interest.  Both student and professor will discover that each is simply a human being trying to do their best in this world – to be good learners, good friends, good citizens.  Don’t be afraid to ask the question “How can I be successful in your class?” with genuine interest.  Then listen for those usually unstated expectations and tips for success that will help you stay engaged and a step ahead in your work.  Visit more than once.  

As a professor of hundreds of undergrads, yes I am busy but I always enjoy checking in with students and leave these exchanges energized to continue good work.  I hope that you’d feel that way too! Ultimately, I believe these tips will reduce a student’s stress and performance anxiety.  Two performance killers!”

Kassandra B., Head of Upper School at Santa Catalina School shares:

“The most important thing for new students is to take a few moments whenever possible to introduce themselves to the teacher. Making eye contact and saying hello when they cross paths at school helps build that relationship quickly. At Catalina, it’s our culture for students to meet with teachers during open office hours. Doing this from ‘the get go’ is key. Sometimes students are nervous to do this at first.  But once they meet with a teacher–even if it’s just for 5 minutes–the ice is broken and they’re on the road to building a meaningful teacher-student relationship.”

Gary Clark, Director of Admissions at UCLA says:

“A big part of the college experience will be what you choose to put into it! Even if the campus offers a wide variety of extraordinary opportunities, you can’t expect someone to come knocking on your door to lay them at your footstep. Ask questions, take advantage of upper class mentors and tutors, go visit the career center early and often…these are the kinds of connections that will not only prepare you for undergraduate experience and beyond, but they make the journey much more enjoyable! Never be afraid to knock on a door or ask a question!”

Darlene Dang, Student Success Manager at Skillify shares:

“Reach out to the teachers/professors BEFORE the school year starts. They’ll be busy learning new faces and new names when school begins.  To prepare for your new classes, reach out to the teachers/professors via email. Introduce yourself, let them know you’re looking forward to meeting them, and ask for their advice on how to prepare for their specific class.”

Carl Martellino, Executive Director at USC Career Center shares:

“Spend your first semester learning about your new environment – make new friends, learn about ways to get involved – clubs, organizations, volunteer work, perhaps an on-campus job. After you are settled, start to think about what classes and fields interest you the most – try something outside your comfort zone. Start to talk with alumni working in fields that interest you – investigate, explore, and start to consider broad areas of career interest. You are setting the foundation now for your future.”

Anitha Cadambi, Adjunct Professor of Law at USC shares:

“I am always so humbled by my students’ interest in my professional background, their interest in learning about the struggles and accomplishments along the way, and simply put, ‘why I became a professor.’ For students, there’s always a benefit in understanding the professional background of each educator because those experiences helped shape said educator.”

Jennifer Tang, 12th grade teacher at Alliance College-Ready Public Schools shares:

“Go ask your teacher what they envision for the school year and what a successful student looks like to them. And for your English teachers, ask them what their favorite books are!”

Jakita Morgan, Office Manager for Campus Activities at USC shares:

“Scheduling a one on one with the counselor or activities director is super important. You learn more about each other and set the proper expectations together. And this will also help the counselor know how to help you utilize important resources.”

Dana B., Health Academy Teacher at Westminster High School shares:

“Start off making a good impression. Complete your work and turn it in on time. That way, if something happens and you need extra time on another assignment, your teachers will remember the first impression and may be more generous. Also, let us know if you have stuff going on in your life that can interfere with school. There is a good chance we can help you figure out a plan.  Or put you in contact with professionals that can help.”

Jeff G., Director of Alumni Relations at Windward School shares:

“Do not be afraid to approach us at the beginning of the year to introduce yourself. Also, make it a habit to communicate with educators.  Visit their office outside of class for anything you don’t understand. By creating open lines of communication and taking the initiative to meet with teachers outside of class hours, it will only serve to benefit you throughout the year. In addition, once you are accustomed to meeting with teachers outside of class for extra support, you will be able to take that mindset to college, giving you one leg up amongst your peers who have not honed this skill.”