School is officially back in session, and fall programming at the TGR Learning Lab has begun. As students step back into the classroom, it is beneficial to set new goals and practice new habits for a brighter school year.
The educators at the TGR Learning Lab are a reliable resource and took the time to share insightful advice to help students optimize opportunities and enhance their educational experience.
1. Build effective study habits.
Test different study habits to help you understand and retain information. According to Madison McCarthy, studying by pretending to teach is a useful practice. When studying as if teaching someone else, it encourages you to own the information, understand how to convey it as a teacher and comprehend it as a student. It is also helpful to ask and answer questions to push the boundaries of critical thinking and curiosity.
2. Stay curious.
Keep asking questions. Engage your curiosity and reach out to those around you, whether teachers or classmates; it is crucial to continue honing your cognitive and communication skills.
For McCarthy, communication and collaboration with peers for group projects was a helpful skill during her time as a student.
3. Connect with your classmates.
Building connections enriches the student experience. As Daniel Rayo reflected on his days as a student, he realized it would have been advantageous for him to put more effort into getting to know others better.
“In order to create new connections and experiences, it requires you to put yourself out there with confidence,” said Rayo.
4. Try new things.
Make the most out of opportunities available to you on campus, such as joining clubs or supporting the Associated Student Body (ASB) or participating in after-school or weekend programming at the TGR Learning Lab. Ashley Cortez, volunteer coordinator, encourages students to embrace their interests.
“Whatever you might be interested in, give it your best shot, and run with it in full swing,” she said.
“Say yes to more,” added program coordinator Andres Cuamani. You may just discover a new passion.”
Discovery does not have to end at school. There are plenty of resources in your local community to address your needs and enrich your learning experience.
5. Take advantage of resources.
It is advantageous to be knowledgeable about what resources are available to you as a student. A lack of access to resources should never deter a student from learning more.
Manuel Bahena recommends accessing the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) for reliable transportation or visiting the Anaheim Public Library for free tutoring. McCarthy adds that the library can provide valuable services, offering a variety of supplies for free such as printers and cameras.
Bonus: Join the TGR Learning Lab.
Instructors equally express that they wish they had a place like the Learning Lab after school as a student. The Lab gives access to resources that their schools did not have, such as 3D printers, woodworking workshops and golf with equipment already provided. It is also an opportunity to discover and explore a passion while meeting new friends.
There are no barriers for students at the TGR Learning Lab; members are encouraged to explore subjects that they may have never encountered before. Whether learning a skill, building a project or pursuing a passion, the Lab is a great place to discover new paths together.
There’s still space in our after-school classes and weekend programming for new and returning members. Registration is free and open to 7th– through 12th– grade students. For more information, view our catalog or visit Anaheim.TGRLearningLab.org.
