Trial & Error (Posted by Jessica)

Last year I was so blessed by the mentor program and all the mentors that provided encouragement and answers as I went through the Paralegal course. It is very special to be involved now as a mentor myself. I look forward to connecting with you throughout the year.

In this posting are some study tips that I acquired through trial and error last year.

1. At the end of each week take 10 minutes to familiarize yourself with the coming week’s assignments. Any extra time should be utilized to get ahead.
2. Each week start with the most challenging or time-consuming class first.
3. Read the syllabus, listen to the lecture, read the text, then do the assignment, in that order whenever possible.
4. Read for one hour then stand and stretch before reading some more. Never do one subject for more then 2 hours at a time…change subjects
5. Take THOROUGH notes, and type them up afterwards; an outline form was great for reviewing before tests.
6. MEMORIZE DEFINITIONS
7. Read the scenarios and additional cases, and seek to recognize the elements of definitions and application.
8. Use an MS Word doc or an Excel spreadsheet to record your hours. Input the times as you go through the day, but definitely before going to bed. :)
9. Memorize and meditate on a Bible verse per week.
10. Write down all the OBCL deadlines (proctor forms, etc) on every calendar you use!
11. Email your fellow classmates: encourage each other, find out if your question has already been answered, find info, and prepare together for tests.

12. Buy the CLA exam manual NOW. Read a little bit at a time through the year.
13. When preparing for tests, re-read your notes, and go through them marking important things with a highlighter. Then have someone quiz you on definitions and the highlighted sections. Also think through possible scenarios to which concepts may be applied.

14. PROOF-READ, PROOF-READ, AND PROOF-READ AGAIN. Always try to have another pair of eyes look over a paper before you send it in. Your own brain will put in what you meant to say versus what is actually there. :)
15. During Break Weeks:
Do NOT study AT ALL the first day.
Read the CLA exam manual sections that pertain to the classes you just finished.
Read the OBCL syllabus for the coming week and start working on the assignments to get ahead. This will create a valuable buffer zone of extra time to work on challenging writing assignments or if you need to take time off later in the quarter.

God bless you as you press on in your studies. Contact me if there is any way I can be of assistance, or if you ever need a prayer partner.