Feeling Stuck in My 3rd Year—Looking for Advice!
Hi everyone! I’m currently in my second quarter as a computer science major in my third year, and I’m really struggling. Despite maintaining a 3.7 GPA and generally grasping class material while I’m enrolled, I find that I forget almost everything shortly after the course ends. When I try to apply what I’ve learned later on, it feels like starting from scratch, which is frustrating.
I’ve also relied on ChatGPT more than I’d like to admit, which I think has hindered my understanding of the material. Has anyone else faced a similar challenge and managed to turn things around? I’d love any tips on how to retain information better and truly master the content. Thank you!
TL;DR: I keep forgetting material soon after classes end and need advice on how to retain what I learn effectively.
It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed and like you’re not retaining information, especially in a challenging field like computer science. Here are some tips that might help you turn things around:
Active Learning: Instead of just passively studying, try engaging with the material more actively. This could include doing practice problems, building small projects, or explaining concepts to someone else. Teaching reinforces your understanding.
Spaced Repetition: Use tools like flashcards (Anki, Quizlet) spaced out over time to reinforce your memory. Revisiting concepts at intervals can greatly improve retention.
Projects: Apply what you learn in real-world projects. This could be anything from a personal project to contributing to open-source software. When you use skills in a practical setting, you’re more likely to remember them.
Study Groups: Form or join study groups. Discussing topics with peers or teaching one another can provide different perspectives and solidify understanding.
Document Your Learning: Keep a learning journal or a personal wiki. Write down key concepts, challenges you faced, and solutions you found. Revisiting these notes can help reinforce your learning.
Limit ChatGPT Use: While it’s an excellent resource, try to rely on it less for understanding concepts. Use it for clarification on things you already understand but need more context on, rather than as a primary source for answers.
Connect the Dots: Try to see how different concepts relate to each other. Understanding the bigger picture can make individual concepts easier to remember.
Mindfulness and Breaks: Don’t forget to take breaks and approach your studies with a clear mind.Stress and burnout can make retention significantly harder.
Seek Help: If you’re feeling consistently stuck, consider speaking with a faculty member, advisor, or counselor. They can provide guidance or support tailored to your situation.
Hands-On Experiences: If possible, try to get internships or co-op positions. Real-world experience helps solidify your knowledge and gives you practical skills.
Everyone learns differently, so it might take some experimentation to find what works best for you. Stick with it, and remember that learning is a process that takes time. Good luck!