JJC Blog

1. Find a Study Buddy

Just like hitting the gym, you’re more likely to actually go if you have a buddy pushing you to do it. Find your study P.I.C. and designate a time and place to meet every week – like the library, Starbucks or your house/apartment.

2. Treat Yo Self

Studying can be tedious, so reward yourself for the work you’re doing. Set mini-goals to break up your study sesh. For example, “After I [finish reading this chapter], I’ll [go grab that cookie I’ve been eyeing]. Looking forward to a reward is a great motivator, and it's been proven that regular breaks can boost productivity and improve your ability to focus on a single task.

Homework…it’s a never ending cycle. Although it’s not cracking anyone’s ‘Top 5 Favorite Pastimes’ lists, it IS important for helping you retain and apply what you’ve learned in the classroom.
 
Next time you’re in a homework rut, try these tips to get back on track:

1. Unplug

Let’s face it, there's about a million other things you’d rather be doing than homework – whether it’s texting friends, snapchatting or creeping on Facebook. And when given the choice between homework or procrastinating via social media, social media's always going to win. So instead of bouncing back and forth, put aside a set amount of time to unplug – even if it’s just for 30 mins. By physically logging off of all social media accounts on your computer and switching your phone to airplane mode, you’ll be surprised how much you can get done.

Everyone makes mistakes, but here are a few to avoid your first semester. If you’re already doing some of these, 'tisk-tisk,' -  BUT there’s still time to turn it around!

Assuming you’re the smartest person in the class:

Maybe you earned straight A’s or took honors classes in high school (Kudos), but college is a completely different beast. Don’t make the mistake of coming to class expecting to coast because, “it’s only community college.” Community college classes are no easier than 4-year university classes. (That's why the credits transfer) Sloppily pulling together a paper the day it's due, or blowing off studying for even just one test can mean you working double time to make up for it the rest of the semester.
 

Skipping class:

Come ooon, where else can you learn from an actual instructor, ask questions on-the-spot or even get the inside scoop on test questions. Plus you’ll be putting in valuable face-time with your instructors, which may come in handy if you need extra help down the line. At the very least, think of your classes like a gym membership – you’re paying for it anyway, so you might as well go!

These 7 celebrities prove it’s not where you start, but where you end up.

Tom Hanks: Prior to becoming an Oscar-winning actor (and the only man who can make you emotional over a volleyball), Hanks attended Chabot College, a community college in Hayward, CA. A big proponent of community colleges, he's even credited his tremendous success to his time at Chabot.

Walt Disney: Before Cinderella found her glass kicks or Snow White befriended 7 questionable characters, the ‘original mouseketeer’ attended Metropolitan Junior College in Missouri.

Clint Eastwood: Eastwood knew he didn’t have to pay a "Million Dollars Baby" to get a good education. The award-winning actor, film maker, composer and politician attended Los Angeles City College to study business administration.

There’s always more to learn at JJC. Check out the infographic below to learn a few lesser-known facts about the college.

Striving to be the first is nothing new for JJC. Since becoming the nation’s first public community college in 1901, JJC has extended its offerings to 180+ degree and certificate programs, 30 clubs and six campus locations. Aside from servicing students, JJC is a resource to the community, offering theatre productions, a student-run restaurant, planetarium shows, concerts, art exhibits and more!

1. Tour the Campus

Take a walk and familiarize yourself with your new home for the next two years. Did you know JJC has a specialty coffee shop, a fitness center with Xbox compatible stationary bikes, or a full-functioning planetarium? If you’re pressed for time while on-campus, take the Google virtual tour, and ‘walk’ the building from the comfort of your home.

2. Find your "Study Spot"

We get it. You walk through the door after a day of classes and Netflix, Facebook or video games are literally call your name. Instead, try finding a quiet spot on campus where you can do your work BEFORE you head home - like the library, U-building corridor or patio area. You’ll minimize your distractions and eliminate that ‘I really should be doing my homework’ feeling when you leave.

3. Get a Feel For Your Classes

Feel it out to see if you selected the right classes for you. Courses like math, English and science are taught at many different levels. Make sure you haven’t signed up for a class that’s too hard (or too easy) based on your prior level of education. If you're feeling unsure about any course selections, make an appointment with the counseling department by calling (815) 280-2673 or visit room A-1155 on Main Campus.