The Mid-Term Check
Mid-terms are right around the corner. Is your student ready? Here are some questions you can ask your student to help ensure she is on the right track:

• How do you like your classes? Which one is your favorite and why? Which one is your least favorite and why?
  
• Have you found a comfortable place to study and learn?
  
• What kinds of things distract you when studying? What kinds of things can you do to limit your distraction?
  
• How are you keeping yourself motivated and inspired?
  
• Have you been able to get into a comfortable sleep routine?
  
• What study, writing and test-taking tips have you found to be helpful to you?
  
• Are you able to get work done in your room or is the hallway too loud? If it's too loud, have you talked with a residence life staff member about your concerns?
  
• Are you keeping a calendar of important academic dates such as pre-registration and registration, majors fairs, assignment due dates, and mid-terms and finals?

Be sure to ask these questions from a caring place, so your student doesn't feel like she is being judged. But, it's important to ask. Sometimes, asking these types of questions can help students make the changes necessary to get into a better academic groove. If you do believe your student could benefit from taking advantage of campus services to help her better manage her academic pursuits, don't be afraid to make this suggestion. Students are likely being reminded of the services that are available on campus as they prepare for mid-terms, so it won't be the first time she's heard it.