Eps. 9: Syllabus Secrets- Unlock College Success in Week 1

Summary:

I know those Syllabi can be boring- and yet... the syllabus is basically a type of agreement or contract that you agree to by staying in the class. Yup- no signature required. You can also use it as the cheat code to ensure you survive (and thrive ;) in the class.

I'm breaking down the parts of the syllabus I highly suggest you read and how to use it to your advantage. Spoiler: Not all classes are the same, and neither are the instructors. So, pick the ones that vibe with your priorities! And always keep an eye on those emails from your prof—they can override anything in the syllabus. 

Tune in, and let’s make this semester your best one yet! 🚀

 

Keywords:

syllabus, college, student success, student support, agreement, contract, rules, consequences, grades, financial aid,  understanding, instructors, grading, attendance policies, communication, emails, learning preferences, addendums

 

Takeaways:

• Syllabi function as a type of contract between students and instructors in college
• Staying in a class implies agreement to the terms outlined in the syllabus
• Changes or addendums to the syllabus communicated often supersede the original syllabus (even via email)
• Students should consider their learning preferences and priorities to make informed choices when selecting classes
• You have the option to choose classes and instructors that align with their learning preferences and needs

 

Sound Bites:

• "What people don't tell you about the syllabus is that it is basically a contract.
• "By you staying in the class, you are agreeing to the terms."
• "Differences in syllabi can be the difference in your grade, passing or failing, and getting financial aid."

 

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Syllabus as an Agreement
01:32 Sections of the Syllabus to Pay Attention to: Grading
05:30 Instructors often Determine How they Accommodate Absences
07:40 The Significance of School Emails 
12:15 Choosing Classes and Instructors Based on YOUR Priorities
18:00 Engage and Connect with the Podcast
19:22 Supporting the Podcast Community

 

Special Thank You: 

To my amazing partner, Brandon Ward, for the intro. AND to the amazing Miracle Laurie and Bobbo Byrnes for their tune Effin' Groovy in the outro.  So lucky!