First Year Students | Student Learning Services

tips for success

Navigating first year can be challenging. There are so many things to do, so much to learn, and it can become overwhelming.

1) Attending class

You can decide whether or not to attend class, but anything covered in class can be on the test and exam
Take notes in class (Tips for Success - Notetaking)
For Online courses or using your course's online platform visit Humber OLC for Blackboard tutorials

2) Read and understand your course outline/ syllabus

Refer to your course outline/ syllabus for all due dates, guidelines, and expectations
Make a note of all due dates and exam dates on your schedule
Look through your course critical path before coming to class and have an idea of what topics will be covered

3) Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek assistance when needed

Sometimes instructors do not have office hours or do not have time after class to answer your questions. Ask your peers in your class if something was not clear or send the instructor a polite email to clarify questions you may have.
Use resources available to you:
- Consider making a study group sessions
- Attend a PASS session if your course has one
- Get free peer tutoring for your courses
- Drop in math help at the Math and Writing Centre
- Drop in writing help at the Math and Writing Centre
- Research Help (Library Services)
- Attend one of our learning skills workshops

Quick tips for getting better sleep

Evaluate your room

Get rid of lights in your room- blue light (like your phone) causes you to stay awake, sleep mask
Reduce disruptive noises, remove loud clocks, try a “white noise” machine, fans ear plugs

Your phone

Set your phone and screens to the “night” setting a few hours before bed. It reduces the blue light that keeps you awake
Avoid using your phone before bed.
Avoid checking your phone at night.

Running thoughts in your mind

Keep a notepad by your bed. If you have thoughts rushing through your mind, write them down to get them out of your head and read it in the morning
Avoid doing homework or studying in your bed, this makes you associate anxiety with your bed

Follow a regular sleep schedule

Make small adjustments, try to sleep 15 min earlier each night
Once you adjust your time, be consistent
Practice a bedtime routine- e.g. breathing exercise
When it’s time to wake up, open your curtains and let the light in- this will help you wake up