Be present to the right location a little early.\u00a0 Plan to head to the location early, just\u00a0in case clocks vary or unexpected delays pop up.<\/p>\n
Know the instructor’s name.\u00a0 Have whatever books or materials ready and with you.\u00a0 Have needed tools for taking notes.\u00a0 Turn your phone off when you enter the room.<\/p>\n
Be rested if at all possible.\u00a0 Look rested and attentive no matter how you feel.\u00a0 Seriously, take time to wash your face, brush your teeth, comb your hair (not a time to have fashionable bed-head) and put on appropriate, comfortable, clean and unwrinkled clothing and shoes.\u00a0 This is one time you should let your clothing and grooming serve you by providing comfort and by presenting a first impression of dependability to your instructor and classmates.\u00a0 Avoid bold, flashy or distracting clothing and be very cautious in using products with perfumes that may be a problem for your classmates.<\/p>\n
Once in the room, set the stage for your best advantage.\u00a0 If you truly want to seek success, be bold enough to select a chair near the front of the classroom.\u00a0 Personally, I always selected the seat at the front far right on day one.\u00a0 You are not right under the instructor’s nose and won’t appear to be seeking pet status so obviously.\u00a0\u00a0This vantage point allows you proximity to the instructor and a point from which you can turn in your seat to view the entire room comfortably.\u00a0 Since many classrooms still feature chairs that open to the left side, the far right seat actually gives you the flexibility to turn around easily.\u00a0 This is a small thing, but you’ll find a few advantages that will combine with others for big advances.<\/p>\n
Finally, once you are in place, just relax, or look like you are relaxed and comfortable in your own skin.\u00a0 Make eye contact with your classmates and instructor and share a greeting.\u00a0 Comfortable conversation initiated by you will open doors immediately and favorably, with a few exceptions of grumpy people.\u00a0 Be that positive person who takes the first step.\u00a0 Do not overdo this.\u00a0 Be simply polite and keep the conversation light.\u00a0 Do not use profanity – no exceptions, even in general expresson.\u00a0 Don’t comment on other classmates unfavorably or make remarks about the instructor.\u00a0 Keep the attitude positive and very light.\u00a0 You are setting yourself up to be approachable and safe, not too bold and not the class clown right off the start.\u00a0 Most of your classmates are apprehensive coming into the new setting.\u00a0 Even if you have to pretend to be at ease in the new situation, you will instantly break the ice and help everyone to relax.\u00a0 For this act, you will hold an initial role of leadership in the dynamic of the group.<\/p>\n
Before the class even begins, you are already levels ahead of the rest of the class. Simple steps, completed consistently will lead you to success to the best of your intellectual abilities.\u00a0 When the class is beginning, leave all the world behind for that brief period.\u00a0 You may have to work at that, but plan ahead to focus on the instruction.<\/p>\n
With a few days into January as this entry is posted, some classes have already had their first day.\u00a0 It is completely fine to re-read this at the beginning of Fall classes, Spring classes, Summer, etc.\u00a0 The principles will be the same.\u00a0 Any day is a good day to start successful habits.\u00a0 This is just a start.<\/p>\n