Research tells us that brain connections increase as we interact with our environment. That makes sense. Our environment influences us. The more involved we are with events, activities and people around us the more we learn and the more intelligent we become.

Here is a think-and-do-list to help you interact with your college environment and grow neurological connections.

One – Class time

• Think this: Everything I hear or see in class will be on the exam.
• Do this: Go to class.

Two – Professor

• Think this: My professor is human being who knows things I need to know and actually wants to help me learn.
• Do this: Visit the professor in their office. Talk with professor before or after class.

Three – classmate

• Think this: This classmate looks like they really care. Two are better than one. Together we will get more accomplished.
• Do this: Get their contact information. Make a study appointment. Meet with the classmate once a week or every other week and discuss the concepts addressed this week in the readings and lectures. Study together at least three days before an exam.

Four – textbook

• Think this: real human beings wrote my  textbook. They are experts in this field. This book is a treasure of knowledge and information that can make a difference in my thinking.
• Now do this: Find the readings assigned for this week. Read the table of contents for the assigned readings. Read the main headings. Read the summary. Read the entire reading word for word.

Ruth’s tip for today.

• Think this: My brain connections will increase as I interact with the environment.
• Do these routines this semester to interact with your environment.

1. Go to class.
2. Talk with your professor.
3. Study with a classmate.
4. Read your textbooks.

Interacting with your environment will definitely improve your grades.

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