- Joined
- Sep 9, 2016
- Messages
- 21
- Reaction score
- 7
How do you guys get a GPA above 3.7? More specifically, how do you approach studying for midterms for Biology and Chem. There is so much material, how do you remember all of it?
To be more helpful, I have found having a study group really helps. Explaining things to one another has been more helpful to me insofar as understanding concepts is concerned than rereading notes or doing flash cards. I'm surprised seeing them recommended so much. Maybe it's because my major coursework has been closer to the physical sciences than biology but flash cards were helpful in OChem and the MCAT and that's about it.
For classes that rely heavily on math, what I do is try to make sure that I understand the physical consequence of every equation we see. It can be as simple as "The tangential slope of a point on a potential is the force experienced by a molecule on that potential". It could just be my learning style but I have always found verbal logic to "stick" better than staring at equations and memorizing them.
+1 on being mindful of how much "Fun" you have.Distractions are a big thing. I'm almost certain if I cut back on the amount of 'fun' I had, my GPA could have bumped + .1-.2. Smartly choose your classes as well - make sure you have reasonable classes/schedules where you'll do well. A couple of bad grades can sink your GPA quickly. Try to find out the right way to study; for example, at my school, reading from the Orgo textbook was useless, and doing the problem sets were all you needed.
College is a time of great personal growth for a lot of people (I changed a lot, as did many of my friends), and one of the most unique experiences you'll have in your life. Prioritize your academics foremost, but also take advantage of the opportunities (clubs, research, study abroad, etc) and potential lifelong bonds you can make during this time. I ended up in the 3.6s, but you can most definitely achieve a 3.7+ and all of that with proper time management and smart focus.
Generally speaking, If you have an exam monday, you should plan on staying in saturday night to study.
In addition to the obvious question/answer cards, here are examples of some cards I've made:
View attachment 217122 View attachment 217123 View attachment 217124 View attachment 217125