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Post #3 - After my first week of classes

I love studying at BYU, it is so much different - more diverse and interesting - than studying in my country. Now I now where are the buildings that I need pretty well. The most surprising for me probably is the work load of homework - but I like it. It is also one of the things that I am struggling right now - I barely finish my homework and assignments right before the classes start. As the semester progresses I will try to manage my time better so I would be ahead of my readings and homework rather than behind. And I also plan to make an exercise plan for myself so I could keep myself in shape. But I know this is going to be one of the greatest experiences of my life!

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Post #3--After my first week of classes

Well, after my first week of classes, I'm feeling pretty good. A little overwhelmed with classes, but I'm learning how to balance my time between classes and organize my day so I can study more effectively. The biggest challenge I think I will face now, is keeping that schedule. Being able to keep up with the workload. For the rest of the semester, I'm pretty sure that I just need to keep going. Put school first. There are a lot of things that a new student needs to get used to, and it may take a while, probably more than one semester, but it's worth it.

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Post #3--After my first week of classes


Wow it is already my second week in BYU. I have to admit that college life is really exciting and fun. Meeting different people in different classes. I am surprised by how attentive and diligent everyone is. It helped to create a really good learning environment.

My biggest challenge so far is to remember where my classes are, and how to get there. I always carry a little note with me so that I will know where the next stop is. Hopefully it will get better as time goes on.

In order to be successful, I need to plan ahead. I am grateful for the classes that have their syllabus and calendar on blackboard (still waiting for some classes), so that I can put the important dates down in my calendar. On the other hand, I also need to make new friends to make my college life wonderful.

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Post #3--After my first week of classes

What has surprised you?

Even though the campus is huge, I keep seeing familiar faces. Is that normal?

What has been the biggest challenge so far?

The biggest challenge for me so far has been trying to get funds to survive while I attend BYU. So, the ultimate challenge is finding a job that will allow me to provide for my family.

What are you planning on doing for the rest of the semester in order to be successful?

I will designate the required time needed for my studies, and get help from the available resources if needed.

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Post #3: After My First Week of Classes

My first week at BYU has been a great experience! I love the teachers, all my classes, and the level of learning we are required to achieve.

The most surprising thing has been how fast I am getting to know the campus. The first couple days of classes were so intimidating, and I always had to stop and ask for directions. I wondered if I would ever learn where all my classes were....but here I am in my second week of classes, not having to get my schedule out between every class!

My biggest challenge so far has been being able to find the right classes to add or drop. There was a class that I wanted to drop and, because there are so many teachers and classes, it took a while for me to organize my schedule and get to be familiar with each of my courses' outlines and syllabuses.

In order to be successful, I am going to read all of the assigned reading. I need to read each chapter before the class that will cover that chapter. I plan on getting involved so that I don't get homesick also. This will help me stay focused of school. I'm going to be responsible and study when I need to be studying.

I am REALLY excited for this semester and future semesters here at BYU!

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Post #3 After First Week of Classes

Well, most people who are expecting a rigorous college experience would probably be jumping ahead like I did. It was surprising for me that everything is starting out slowly- probably because I'm in mostly introductory level classes, and even though BYU is considered hard, anyone with time and work ethic can get ahead apparently. I'm just surprised by how easygoing things have been- but then again, it's a pleasant surprise.
My biggest challenge so far has been finding parking and figuring out sure places to sit my car down. It's annoying when I assume a lot will be open because it was open the previous day, only to find that all the spaces are full in 4 different lots. I guess I have to carefully calculate my time and get there just before a cycle of classes begins- (sinister laugh while putting tips of the fingers together)- yes, carefully planning is key.
In order to be successful I plan on staying at least one class period ahead of the lecture in my reading and homework. I figure that if I can manage to stay ahead while I'm here without a job, keeping up with my reading and homework won't be so difficult once I get into a job and a legitimate schedule. Also, things just feel easier if I stay ahead, and I feel better about myself- like I'm actually a smart kid.


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Post #3 After My First Week of Classes

What has surprised you?

How little work I actually have to do. I thought that I would get out of my first class with tons of homework but I didn’t. I know I’ll get more homework as the semester goes on, but I guess I just assumed that I would start out with a lot.

What has been the biggest challenge so far?

Getting used to the fact that I’m finally a BYU student. Its been a little weird actually really going to classes and digesting the fact that I no longer have to pretend I belong on campus.

What are you planning on doing for the rest of the semester in order to be successful?

Keep a schedule so I know when to turn assignments in. Be friendly and make lots of friends. Keep a positive attitude. Audition for everything I can. Get decent hours of sleep… I’m sure I’ll think of more later (Of course, actually doing all these things is different from actually doing them so I’m going to have to try extra hard).


Crysta