Homework in the absence of homework

One of the hardest things for me is remembering that just because I don't have any homework due tomorrow, that doesn't mean I have no homework.

I know; it depresses me too sometimes. But that's part of growing up, right? I still remember the feeling of freedom when I got home and I had NO HOMEWORK! It was kind of like a snow day, only better in some ways because they happened in all kinds of weather, and we don't get that much snow here in Texas.

But the truth is that I pretty much always have homework these days. Something is due soon, even if it's not tomorrow, and chances are that it's going to require more work or time than just one pass at it. There's always a test lurking out there in the near future somewhere.

Reading textbooks, reviewing notes, outlining chapters.

It never ends. Best to get a jump on it, because it's not going away, and WILL bite you eventually.

Got to go. There must be something I need to be doing.

Assignments 101

If the assignments are posted in your classroom, take a photo.

But don't forget to plug in the due dates etc. to whatever app you're using to stay on top of them. I put mine on a big wall calendar that lets me plan ahead.

When you're in a hurry and/or doing something else in class, why waste your time writing the information?

Makes you wonder why more teachers don't get this. Also makes you appreciate the ones who post the information online.

Because if you've ever had a teacher who passed out a calendar while saying it was already out of date, you know what I'm talking about.

Quizlet

No doubt there are other versions available, but my personal preference for online flashcards is Quizlet.

You can make your own, or use the auto-fill feature for vocabulary words, terms, even names and dates.

Then you can study, test or play games. You can even use them for translations between languages, or have the audio pronunciation.

Pay $10 and get the premium version, and create study group collections with password protection. Very efficient, easy, and if you download an app you can even access it from your iPhone.

Here is the link.

Engineering summer programs

I've spent three weeks this summer exploring college engineering programs, living in dorms, eating in cafeterias, doing my own laundry, living with a roommate I've never met before. I had the opportunity to actually do some field and lab work in the areas of environmental engineering and hydrology, and spent some time learning about materials engineering - all pretty interesting.

If you get a chance, go somewhere for what's called a pre-college summer camp or program. Some cost money, but some - like mine this summer - are competitive for a scholarship to attend. All I had to do was get myself there and bring my sheets, towels and clothes.

Start looking early, as soon as February or even December. It's worth it just to experience life as a (sort of) college student, away from your family and out on your own.

Cars change everything

Clever, right?

But I mean having backup stuff, things that if you need them you REALLY need them. Think about it. Water, snacks, money, phone charger, a jacket. In the trunk, just a trip to the parking lot away.

Pockets for all

Basketball shorts are great for comfort but terrible for phones, wallets and keys. Let's hear it for pockets.

Cargo pockets down low on the side of your legs with Velcro are my favorites, or zippers. Not buttons; who has time to button a pocket? Snaps never work for long.

Back pockets are good, and deep side pockets are the best.

Mostly, the more the better.

Yea for duvets

Looking for a shortcut? Get a duvet. It's like a pillowcase for a fluffy blanket. Make your bed in 10 seconds. Bonus is that it's harder to lose socks and stuff. I can see the need for one in my dorm room.

Here, go crazy at Ikea