The importance of attendance
One of the most difficult things about the winter semester is dealing with the cold. Harsh, long, dark, and relentless, the windy Guelph mornings often make you not want to leave your warm bed. For students living on residence and off-campus, braving the cold and going to class becomes increasingly difficult. However, as hard as it may be, immersing yourself within campus while attending your classes regularly is a crucial component of university life.
Attending classes should not be looked at as a chore. At university, we are given the opportunity to study a subject we are passionate about. Although all classes are not the most interesting or awe-inspiring, students often fall into the trap of skipping when they are bored. Even if you dislike all of your classes, the act of getting up and physically being present in class can help keep you on track. When a class is insanely boring, and the mid-term is months away, it is easy to convince yourself that skipping is okay. However, there are numerous benefits that arise when looking at attendance and the effect it has on your studies.
Even though the professor has posted all of the class notes on CourseLink, being present for lectures is absolutely crucial for maximizing your ability to perform well on tests, assignments, and exams. By showing up to class, you can follow along and understand exactly what the professors expect of you. Perhaps more importantly, going to class can help you find out what you don’t need to know. Professors often give crucial information regarding tests and assignments in class, and when students show professors that they are dedicated and involved, it becomes increasingly more beneficial to attend class.
As the semester progresses, it is undoubtedly harder to become motivated to get out of bed and go to class. While attending lectures can help you academically, it is also important for your mindset and overall confidence. Going to class is a lot like going to the gym. If you skip and don’t go, you’ll feel terrible about yourself. If you do manage to rise from your cocoon of warmth, you will feel a sense of accomplishment, and your confidence to learn and do well will increase.
The benefits of going to class far outweigh the temporary exposure to cold weather. By regularly attending classes, you are making an effort not only to better yourself academically, but to further enrich your university experience entirely.