By Matthew Berger/reporter
NE Campus students were shown four keys to motivation at the How to Stay Motivated seminar Oct. 8.
“Motivation is a process, a state of mind and something you work at everyday,” NE academic advisor Masika Smith said.
Students should take ownership of their schooling and ask themselves why they’re there, Smith said. Students are not forced to attend school. They have the choice to take other career paths.
“Use your voice,” she said. ”Talk to your teachers and counselors. They’re here to help.”
There is no such thing as a dumb question, Smith said.
Another way to stay focused and motivated, Smith said, is to hang out with other college students. It will help them stay focused because they can study and do homework together.
“Find a role model, a person whom you strive to be,” she said.
Role models help students see who they can become if they work hard at their schoolwork and stay motivated, Smith said.
“There are enemies of motivation as well,” she said. “Do not procrastinate. Be a hard worker.”
When assignments are given, students should try their hardest to finish their work as soon as possible, Smith said. For example, not following the class syllabus or reading the books will hurt students with due dates and class assignments, she said.
“Missing class is the biggest downfall to most students,” she said. “Why sign up for a class and not attend it?”
If students do not show up for class, they will miss vital parts of lessons and information about upcoming tests, Smith said.
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Four keys to staying motivated:
1. Take ownership of your schooling.
2. Use your voice — talk to teachers and counselors.
3. Hang out with other college students. They will help you stay motivated.
4. Find a role model.