Noel D'Angelo

Here are some reasons why I think I have done well at Mudd. Bear in mind that while these study tips may work for me, they may not work for other people.

First, once my schedule for the semester is set, I plan when I am going to do homework for all of my classes. For example, suppose that I have Statistical Thermo. homework due Monday, Music Theory homework due Monday, Accounting homework due Tuesday, and Philosophy reading due Monday. I will usually do the Music Theory on the previous Thursday, the Philosophy Reading on Friday, the accounting homework on Saturday, and the Statistical Thermo. homework on Sunday. So, if I have three assignments due on a given day, I will commence them in advance so that I don't have to work on all the assignments the day before they're due. This helps avoid all-nighters.
Second, know when to get help. I've discovered that getting help from other students and faculty helps me understand the problem and alleviates a great deal of frustration. This brings up another good reason for starting homework early. If a problem comes up that is not understandable, one can see the professor about it before the problem is due.
As for exams, I've found that if weekly reading and homework is done consistently, the best way for preparing for an exam is by reviewing the material intensively the day before the test. So, if questions arise about the course material, then the professor should be seen immidiately, not the day before the exam. If a review session is available (as is often the case with freshman division courses), attend it. Previewing copies of previous exams certainly helps as well. Prayer doesn't hurt either.

Well, that's about all I can think of for now. Basically, organization and non-procrastination are among the two main habits that can lead to sucess at, or at least survival of, Harvey Mudd.