As you begin your first semester, there are steps you can take to set yourself up for success. Make time to get organized, try different study strategies and find support to jump-start your academic year.
Get organized
During your first week of classes, you’ll get a syllabus for each one of your courses. This document has expectations, required readings, project deadlines and exam dates. Review each syllabus to help you get organized for the semester.
Attend office hours
Faculty members make time to be available for students outside the classroom. This is known as “office hours.” Office hours allow you to meet one-on-one with your professors to ask questions or find support. For example, if you had a question about an upcoming assignment, you could attend office hours to get clarification.
Even if you don’t have an academic reason to attend office hours, stop by to introduce yourself to your professors. Meeting your professors now can make it easier to go later in the semester if you need help. Get more tips for attending office hours.
Figure out what works for you
Take time this week to try different study techniques and environments to determine what's best for you:
Try making flashcards, re-writing your notes or color-coding key concepts. You can also explore study spots on campus.
Find support
You don’t have to wait until your first exam to ask for help. Visit your professor during office hours to ask questions and check out campus resources.
Academic Success and Achievement Program (ASAP)
ASAP offers free peer tutoring to all first-year students and any student living on campus, including new transfer students and Bear Creek residents.
Tutoring resources
CU Boulder offers tutoring and learning resources to support you and your academic success. Some are specific to certain classes, departments or groups of students. Most are free, while some require a fee.
Writing Center
The Writing Center is a service that offers students from all academic disciplines and skill levels the opportunity to work one-on-one with professionally trained writing consultants.
University Libraries
University Libraries offer a massive collection of academic resources. Services include Ask a Librarian, where you can chat, text, email or schedule a consultation to get help with your research and course assignments.
Peer Wellness Coaching
Peer wellness coaches are trained students who can help you create study plans, practice self-care, set goals, make friends and more. Coaching sessions are free and open to all CU Boulder students.
The Honor Code
Students are expected to follow the Honor Code by not participating in academic dishonesty, including plagiarism, cheating or helping another student gain an unfair advantage.