In Nigerian tertiary institutions, achieving a first-class degree is a significant accomplishment.
It is determined by the Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA), a weighted scoring system with a maximum of 5.0. Earning a CGPA of 4.50 and above upon graduation qualifies a student for a first-class degree.
In this blog post, we will explore eight essential rules that, if followed diligently, can help students attain a first-class degree with ease.
Rule 1:
Understand Yourself: Many students make the mistake of trying to imitate the study habits of high performers without considering their own unique strengths and weaknesses.
It is crucial to adapt study methods that work best for you. Some students excel with just three hours of study per day, while others may require up to seven hours.
Successful first-class students have a deep understanding of themselves and their learning styles.
Reading and reviewing lecture notes promptly, rather than allowing them to accumulate, is a common practice among top performers.
Rule 2:
Understand Your Professors: Approaching examination questions effectively is an art.
It involves understanding what your professors expect from your answers. Different lecturers may prefer different writing styles—some may prefer detailed explanations, while others may prefer concise responses.
Seek insights from seniors who have taken the same courses to gain a better understanding of your professors’ preferences.
Paying attention during lectures can also provide valuable insights into their personalities. First-class students not only study the course material but also the instructors themselves.
Rule 3:
Begin with Dedication: It is common for students to get caught up in the excitement of starting university and overlook the importance of focusing on their academic goals from day one.
Building a strong foundation for your grade point average (GPA) right from the beginning is crucial to avoid playing catch-up later.
The first semester of the first year is usually academically easier, presenting an excellent opportunity to establish a solid academic start.
Rule 4:
Attend Lectures: While attending lectures may seem optional during the first year, it becomes a priority as you progress through your studies.
Attendance allows you to mark your presence, gather valuable insights, and receive important instructions and tips that may not be available in lecture handouts.
Lecturers often provide additional information during class, making attendance a differentiating factor between an A and a B grade.
Rule 5:
Start Early Exam Preparation: Balancing academics and social life can be challenging in university.
To ensure adequate preparation for exams, it is crucial to start studying early. Leaving all the studying for the night before a test or exam can lead to stress and lower performance.
By studying consistently throughout the semester, you not only become better prepared but also reduce the last-minute pressure.
Early preparation helps you identify and address areas of weakness, avoiding the risk of neglecting essential topics.
Rule 6:
Access Past Exam Papers and Assignments: Procuring past question papers from senior colleagues can provide valuable insights into the topics likely to be covered in exams.
While not all lecturers repeat past questions, many set similar ones. Working on previous exams or assignments serves as a test of your knowledge and helps you identify areas that require further study.
For laboratory classes, obtaining a graded laboratory notebook from a previous year can provide a valuable format to follow and avoid common mistakes.
Rule 7:
Foster a Positive Mindset: Pessimism can hinder your academic progress. Defy the negative voices that say achieving a first-class degree is impossible.
Many students have successfully graduated with first-class honors, even in so-called “difficult” departments.
First-class students maintain an optimistic and pragmatic mindset, believing in their ability to achieve their goals. Focus on success stories that motivate you and believe that you can break records too.
Rule 8:
Prioritize Spirituality: Ultimately, acknowledging the importance of spirituality is vital. Recognize that God is the source of all knowledge and seek His guidance before every lecture, test, or exam.
Putting God first in your academic journey brings a sense of peace and strength. While the above rules are essential human factors, remember that true success comes from a higher power.
Conclusion
Achieving a first-class degree requires a combination of self-awareness, effective study strategies, and a positive mindset.
By following these eight rules diligently, students can enhance their chances of attaining academic excellence.
Remember, this list only captures the most critical attributes of first-class students, and there are other factors to consider. With dedication, perseverance, and faith, you can strive for and achieve outstanding academic success in your university journey.