Do not overload yourself

When selecting your classes for the upcoming semester, try not to bite off more than you can chew. While it might seem tempting to get 18-20 hours out of the way, it is important to factor in the various commitments you will also be involved with throughout the semester. It also will be more beneficial to your future to earn higher grades while taking fewer hours than finishing an extra semester or two early.

Study with friends

Studying can be a drag. When it becomes a productive hangout activity with an old friend or potential new friend, it is suddenly more appealing. A study partner may also have creative memory tactics you may not have thought of that will help you on the big test day.

Check your grades consistently

Instead of frantically begging your professor for your updated grade the week before finals, consistently check your grades on Blackboard. If your teacher does not update their Blackboard and more importantly, your grades, you have every right to ask them at any point in the year. You may have to wait to receive your grade, but your professor will know you are serious about earning a high grade in the class.

Talk to your teachers one on one early in the semester

Develop a relationship with your professors early in the semester. If you are comfortable talking to your instructors it will be easier to speak up during class time if you do not understand something, if you need help with a project or if there are any extra credit projects or papers available.

Put in the work

There are really no short cuts to making good grades, you have to put in the work and complete the projects and papers you are assigned. However, taking a reasonable number of classes, studying with friends, checking your grades consistently, and talking to your teachers are all ways you can start putting in the work this upcoming semester.