Be Your Own Hero in Learning: Taking Charge of Your Academic Success and Demonstrating Agency

By: Chimeremeze Chinyere, EC Oakland Cohort 5 Fellow

As someone who demonstrates agency daily in my educational journey, I’m eager to impart some insights and practical tips drawn from my personal experiences in navigating the academic terrain, particularly when confronted with less-than-ideal teaching situations. I empathize with the frustrations that can arise but rest assured, there are strategies to optimize your learning journey. First, take a moment to analyze this data to realize the urgency around taking things into your own hands as a student.

Take Initiative

To kick things off, let’s emphasize the importance of taking initiative. As a student, proactively seek out knowledge beyond the confines of the classroom. While lectures provide a foundation, don’t limit yourself to that alone. Explore additional resources such as books, online tutorials, or educational videos. The wealth of information available outside traditional lectures is truly remarkable, and going that extra mile can significantly enrich your educational experience.

Now, here’s a piece of advice for you: pretend to be your teacher! Seriously, take the initiative to learn more about the topics that interest you most, for example, I love and study business and law. Go the extra mile to apply what you’re learning in real-world settings. This strategy transforms you into a self-motivated learner, and believe me, it’s a game changer.

Network With Peers

Developing relationships with your classmates is another critical component of academic success. Consider forming study groups or building online forums to enable conversations and the exchange of ideas. Collaborating with peers not only makes the learning experience more enjoyable but also allows you to get new views, resulting in a deeper and more complex comprehension of the subject.

Utilize Resources

Being resourceful is also important. If you’re having trouble with a specific issue, feel free to seek assistance from other educated persons. It might be a tutor, a mentor, or even an online community. Asking questions and seeking assistance demonstrates strength, not weakness. Accept the learning path, and remember that it is acceptable to seek help along the road.

So, my friends, let us embrace our curiosity, take responsibility for our education, and never stop learning. We can thrive as scholars even when confronted with inadequate teaching. Let us make the most of our educational opportunities and aim for the stars!