So, we’ve reached the middle of the semester and, for the most part, you probably have settled in to your weekly routine with classes. This can be a good time to take a deep breath and assess your progress as well as think about your future plans. Below are some things to expect and some suggestions for this midway point in the semester:

• Mid-Semester Reports: If you receive a mid-semester report, please don’t be alarmed. These reports were designed as a communication tool for you and your professors about your progress in your courses. These reports also serve as a “prompt” to encourage you to seek assistance. Follow the instructions the instructor sent to you and meet with the faculty member to assess what you need to do to succeed in the course. Try not to view Mid-Semester Reports negatively; they can provide significant insight at a critical point in the semester.

• Study Skills and Self-Reflection:  The first rounds of exams, papers, and quizzes in any course are often like experiments:  you’re still learning about the instructor’s expectations and standards. If you want to improve your performance on the 2nd and 3rd tests and assignments, it’s important to examine how you prepared for the 1st round. Some students simply say, “I’ll study more” when asked what they will do differently the next time. And “studying more” might seem very clear, but you’ll do yourself a favor if you spend some time analyzing how, where, when and how far in advance you studied the first time. And then think about what kinds of adjustments you can make now.  Penn State Learning offers some valuable information about study tips. 

• Office Hours: All instructors must hold office hours–and many would tell you that students under-utilize them. Plan to visit one of your professors, even if you are not having any particular trouble in the class. You can talk about something that was discussed in class or about a question you might have from the course readings. Remember that it’s important to become known in your classes whenever you can. Students who feel connected in their classes tend to perform better and they develop a stronger sense of community at the University. Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone and make a connection with your instructors.

• Career Services and the Liberal Arts Career Enrichment Network: Career Development is a process–it’s not something to suddenly attend to when you’re approaching graduation.  The more you explore the resources provided by Career Services and the Liberal Arts Career Enrichment Network, the better!  Mid-semester is a good time to make a visit to both offices. Career Services is located behind Eisenhower Auditorium and the Liberal Arts Career Enrichment Network Office is located in 5 Sparks. 

• Education Abroad Office: Thinking about studying abroad? You can start investigating your options online. The general application deadlines are: Fall programs:  January 20, Spring programs: April 1, Summer programs: beginning February 1.  But pay attention to the deadlines listed for each program you research.

• Your Academic Adviser: Most students meet with their adviser at least once or twice a semester to discuss course selection for the upcoming semester and to discuss long-term goals. Don’t wait until it’s time for you to register for courses! Please keep in mind that your adviser’s calendar may fill quickly, so schedule an appointment well in advance of your scheduling date. You can use this website to do so: http://www.la.psu.edu/advising-appt/.  If you’ve received a Mid-Semester Report, your adviser can talk to you about utilizing additional PSU resources.

• Campus Happenings: Take advantage of the opportunities that Penn State has to offer outside of the classroom. Listen to a guest speaker, attend a performing arts show, participate in a political event, see a free movie on campus or support student athletes by going to a fall sporting event–volleyball, soccer, or field hockey. The possibilities are endless.

• Local Community: State College and the surrounding areas are home to you while you are a Penn State student, and there are plenty of ways for you to become part of the community.  Pay attention to what’s happening downtown from the weekly Farmer’s Market to Pumpkin Carving at Shaver’s Creek to Dark in the Park Stories Around the Campfire at Sunset Park to the Ski Swap Sale at Tussey Mountain, there are so many ways to take part in the local community.  Check www.statecollege.com to find out what’s happening throughout the semester.