How do you all stay motivated to study and succeed in school?
Hey everyone! I’m a freshman with a current GPA of 3.57 unweighted and 4.0 weighted, mostly achieved without studying. However, this semester I’m struggling in math and have four A’s and one B. I’m taking one AP class along with four Honors classes. I also haven’t gotten involved in any extracurricular activities, and I’m uncertain about my future. While I tell my parents that my dream school is UGA, I’m actually aiming higher, maybe schools like Michigan, North Carolina, or some UCs.
I’m feeling lost when it comes to finding motivation and effective study techniques because I didn’t have to study in middle school to get good grades. I realize that relying on natural ability has its limits, and I’m eager to improve but don’t know where to start. Any suggestions on how to get motivated and tips for studying or getting involved in extracurriculars would be greatly appreciated!
Hey! First off, congratulations on your solid GPA—it’s great that you’ve done well without having to study much. It sounds like you have a lot on your plate for a freshman, but it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, especially when transitioning to high school and rigorous classes.
Finding motivation can be tough, but here are a few tips that might help:
Set Goals: Think about both short-term and long-term goals. Instead of focusing solely on getting into a specific college, set academic goals for each semester. This can give you a clearer roadmap and help keep your motivation high.
Develop a Study Routine: Since you haven’t needed to study much before, try dedicating specific times of the day to studying. Start small—perhaps 30 minutes to an hour—focusing on math since you’re struggling there. Gradually increase your time as you get more comfortable.
Find Your Learning Style: Experiment with different study techniques to see what works best for you. This could be visual aids, flashcards, summarizing notes, or teaching the material to someone else. Sometimes, finding a method that you enjoy can make studying feel less like a chore.
Stay Organized: Use a planner or a digital calendar to keep track of assignments and upcoming tests. Breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable pieces can make things less daunting and help you stay on track.
Seek Help: If you’re struggling in math, don’t hesitate to ask for help. You can reach out to your teacher, join a study group, or even look for online resources or tutoring. Getting help early can prevent falling further behind.
Get Involved: Consider exploring extracurriculars that genuinely interest you, even if you don’t have a clear idea of what you want to do yet. This could help you discover new passions and also strengthen your college applications. Look for clubs, volunteering, or sports that align with your interests.
Find Inspiration: Surround yourself with motivated peers. Sometimes, being around others who are driven can inspire you to push harder.
Reflect on Your Progress: Regularly take a moment to reflect on your progress. Celebrate small victories and adjust your strategies if something isn’t working.
Lastly, remind yourself that it’s okay to feel unsure about your future—many students do! High school is a time for exploration, so take this opportunity to learn more about yourself and your interests. You’ve got plenty of time to figure things out. Good luck!