Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Genre Reflection #2: "How To"

How (Not) To Be An Exemplary Student



  1. Tire of the routine of the semester a third of the way through.
  2. Put off assignments and readings until the last possible minute.
  3. Complain about not having enough time to complete previously mentioned assignments and readings.
  4. Realize your predicament is no one’s fault but your own and promptly shut up.
  5. Come to class unprepared to listen or learn.
  6. Daydream while your professor is giving instruction, only catching part of what she says.
  7. Sit with a puzzled look on your face when asked to participate in an activity you missed the directions for.
  8. Leave campus and immediately forget about your academic responsibilities until you step foot back on said campus.
  9. Continue with your disorganized habits because they have gotten you this far, right?
  10. Get the mediocre grade that you so deserve at the conclusion of finals.
  11. Commence complaining, AGAIN, but not vow to change any of your habits that put you in this predicament.



How To Be An Exemplary Student (from an over, then underachiever)



  1. Face every day with a fresh perspective to break up the monotony of each week.
  2. Be proactive about starting assignments early to alleviate frustration and panic later.
  3. Cease complaining about behaviors you refuse to change.
  4. Vow to not put yourself in precarious situations with your grades; start strong and finish strong.
  5. Utilize those beautiful lists of tasks that you so painstakingly compile in order to stay on track and come to class prepared to listen and learn.
  6. Approach every class meeting with intention, as you wouldn’t be there if there wasn’t anything valuable to learn.
  7. Listen attentively as your knowledgable professor imparts her wisdom onto you.
  8. Rely on your school and home families for support when you need it and engage in self care to maintain your mental faculties.
  9. Engage in regular reflection regarding performance and adherence to your personal goals you’ve set for yourself.
  10. Strive to be better than you were yesterday EVERY DAMN DAY.
  11. When everything is said and done, look back at your achievements and say “Hey, I did good.”