Join or Organize a Study Group

Research shows that students who study together not only get better grades but also have more fun!

Establish and maintain relationships with your instructors

Knowing you personally will help instructors assist you with any learning problems you may have. Later these instructors may be more willing and able to provide you with recommendations for graduate school or employment.

• Have a long-term plan for getting to know instructors. For example, take several classes from the same instructor; ask instructors to help you plan your major or graduate study; take smaller classes so you'll have more direct contact with your instructors; get on the departmental list serve so you'll know about lectures given by specific instructors, and attend these lectures; get involved in undergraduate research; do an independent study course and/or a senior thesis.
• Attend each instructor's office hours: not just once, but several times per semester. You can drop by just to introduce yourself and discuss the class in general, or you can raise a specific topic for discussion. If you are worried about not having anything to say, bring something in writing: for example, written questions or the draft of an essay.
• Get yourself noticed in class. Contribute meaningfully to class discussions. Raise your hand to make comments or ask questions.

Check out the resources of the Student Learning Center (SLC)

Web site: slc.berkeley.edu
The SLC which offers credit-bearing classes linked to lecture courses, as well as tutoring, study groups, problem sessions, exam reviews, and mini-lectures—all designed to improve students' mastery of course material.

Explore the Academic Centers in the Residence Halls

Web site: housing.berkeley.edu/student/academic
These five centers offer tutoring, study groups, learning skills courses and workshops, and computer facilities.

Step by Step web site

Web site: ls.berkeley.edu/stepbystep
This web site provides a guide to getting ready for graduate school in the arts, humanities, and social sciences.

Undergraduate Research Apprentice Program (URAP)

Web site: research.berkeley.edu/urap
This program permits you to earn credits for working one-on-one with faculty members on cutting-edge research projects.

Haas Scholars Workshop

Web site: research.berkeley.edu/haas_scholars
Provides assistance in finding a research mentor and in learning how to write a research proposal.

Spend a semester studying away from campus

Web site: ias.berkeley.edu/bpsa/
Discuss this possibility with your academic advisor and with your DSP Specialist.

Internships are a valuable complement to your educational experience

Web site: resource.berkeley.edu/r_html/r07_06.html
You can apply knowledge acquired in the classroom to work situations, reality-test career options, develop skills, and gain experience unavailable through coursework alone.

Use the Cal libraries

Web site: www.lib.berkeley.edu/AboutLibrary/Staff/PSM/lol59.html
Library staff will furnish special assistance to students with disabilities. For advice or information about using the libraries, contact the Disabled Users' Library Network representative in the Main Library, Moffitt, or any of the branch libraries on campus.