26 Working in Groups Group assignments or projects may be part of the class. When working in groups, it is important that each student works on the project. Do not let one person do the entire assignment or project. Study groups created by members of a class can be helpful. However, remember to do your own work and do not use work from another student just to get an assignment done. You must also know how to do the assignment for tests and quizzes. Reading Assignments • The number of reading assignments can be overwhelming. It is for U.S. students as well. • Not all readings are equally important. Learn which readings are most important and skim the less important readings. • It will take a little time to learn which readings are most important and which ones to skim. • It may be helpful to work with other students in a study group and divide the readings and share notes about the readings. Taking Notes • Taking good notes means being selective and not trying to write down everything the author or professor says. • Focus on what is important when taking notes from a lecture or reading. • It might be helpful to compare notes with another student. • It will take time to learn how to take good notes. Earning Grades • In the U.S., grades are earned. • In many countries, it is acceptable to negotiate your grade with a professor. In the U.S., it is considered to be disrespectful to the professor. • It is not disrespectful when a student asks for help on something that he/she does not understand on an assignment, quiz or test after the student has received a grade. Attendance • Attendance is important to learning the material for your classes and being successful. • Part of maintaining your F-1 or J-1 status is attending class. At Trine University, professors send notices when students have missed classes and are earning poor grades. International Services receives these notices and will follow up with you. • If a student has missed nine hours of a class, the student will be asked to meet with the Registrar and/or International Services. The student is considered to be “failing to maintain his or her status” and might be asked to leave the university and have his/her immigration record terminated. After the immigration record is terminated, the student must leave the United States. Trine University promotes intellectual and personal development through professionally focused and formative learning opportunities, preparing students to succeed, lead and serve.
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