A Compilation of "Helpful Hints" from 

Former CHEM I Students

The following are responses to the question "What recommendation would you give to an incoming freshman regarding CHEM I that would ensure greater success in grasping the concepts in this class" 

"Always do your homework and make sure you understand it as you go along, that way when a test comes, the study load is a lot easier because you already know what you're doing and understand it.  Pay attention in class, that way when reading the chapter, you can breeze through most of the material that you already went over in class"

"...really pay attention and take your time in lab because that is where the chemistry becomes real"

"..don't miss class even if you're half-dying...drag yourself out of bed and go because missing one lecture could ruin your understanding of an entire chapter"

"Don't give up...be consistent with your effort...study just as hard on the final as you did on the first quiz...don't slack off"

"Read the chapters over and over and also do the problems assigned plus more to be sure you know how to do it"

"You have to read the chapters.  Unlike in high school, everything isn't spoon fed to you.  The amount of effort you put in to classes must be, at least, doubled"

"...get help when you need it...don't wait until the last minute"

"...go to tutoring and do so many sample problems until you can't look at another one because it's making you sick!"

"...go to the Learning Center, go to the office hours, and also work out problems in a group setting"

"Never lose your periodic table and do lots of stoichiometry problems because they never leave you alone"

"...refer to books other than the text used in class...review lessons daily, do not pile up work"

"...this isn't high school anymore!"