Welcome to college! You could be feeling excited or nervous – or both! You may find yourself thinking “I’ve made it here but what are my next steps supposed to be?”
Enter the Where Do I Begin hub! This hub is just the first in a series of supportive modules found within The Learning Portal; an amazing resource that offers shared access to resources from all Ontario Colleges. The Where Do I Begin hub will familiarize you with some of the most important things you need to know when starting out in college.
Getting Started
Follow the 7 steps to success found within the Getting Started module of the Where Do I Begin hub and discover more services that will help you along the way!
- Get connected to online tools – register for a free workshop and learn to navigate key technology used regularly at Algonquin College, such as Zoom, Brightspace, email, Microsoft 365, and more!
- Learn how to get things done – Resist the temptation to put things off and get started on your assignments sooner! Explore these Time Management modules to gain simple techniques to plan your time more effectively and get into a routine that works for you.
- Start planning your schedule early – Many students don’t plan to fail; they just fail to plan. Learn how to make a semester plan and create a weekly schedule to ensure that you start and stay on the right track.
- Learn how to take study-worthy notes – Do you find it difficult to listen, take notes and absorb everything all at the same time? You’re not alone! Even if you are attending class online and can access a recorded version of a lecture, it’s still important to take efficient notes that you can use for studying. Visit the Taking Notes in Class module to learn how to balance tasks more efficiently and in a style that works for the way you learn.
- Learn to understand what you read – The Reading with Purpose module will help you develop key strategies and techniques to better absorb information you have read.
- Learn about available services – There are many college services available to help you! The Library and Student Learning Centre (SLC) offer support in areas such as research, citing, study skills, math, presentations skills, Coaching, Peer Tutoring, and more. Visit the Services webpage to discover how we can support you throughout the school year.
- Ask questions – Don’t be afraid to reach out! Visit your campus Library or use our online Library Live Chat service to connect quickly with library staff who are available to help you in real time.
Whether you’re attending classes on-campus or online, start your college journey on the right path by following these steps and seek help when you need it – the key to success lies within you!
Best of luck with your first week of classes!
