You’re Not Alone at ACE: How to Thrive in Your First Class

June 18, 2024

Dominick Martin

M.S. in Organizational Leadership

You’ve decided to earn a degree at American College of Education. That’s great! Now, it’s time for the first day of the next step in your educational journey and it can feel overwhelming. From determining what your schedule will look like to managing your personal responsibilities, you might wonder how it’s possible. At ACE, you’re not alone as you venture toward the next level of your education. I’m currently earning my second degree with the college, and from my experience, just a few simple habits can help you thrive in your first class.

Get organized.

To have a successful first class, you must get organized. As you prepare, create a study schedule that balances your coursework with your commitments. You can use a paper agenda or digital tools to keep track of assignment deadlines and even plan study sessions. Don’t forget to set aside time for breaks to avoid burnout. Organizing isn’t just about fitting everything into one day – it’s about establishing a routine that nurtures continuous learning and personal development. I’m in my 23rd class with ACE and staying ahead of the weekly schedule turns the learning journey into an enjoyable and fulfilling experience!

Not sure where to start with creating your schedule? Here’s mine that you can use as a sample:

Ask for help.

Reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness but a testament to your commitment to your education. ACE has a robust support system in place for you. From academic advisors to dedicated faculty members, everyone is here to support you on your journey. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, seek clarification or request additional resources. Utilizing the resources available to you will help you to confidently complete your program.

Engage.

Participate actively in online discussions and engage with your peers. Remember, every question you ask is a step forward in your academic journey. After your classes, stay connected with your peers. Their experiences and insights can provide invaluable guidance and foster a powerful community. If possible, join study groups and attend virtual meetups – connecting faces to names. These interactions enrich your learning experience, build a network and provide diverse perspectives. At ACE, you are part of a network of lifelong learners, all striving towards a common goal.

In conclusion, your journey at ACE is a shared experience. From getting organized to reaching out for help and finally getting into a groove, every step brings you closer to your academic goals. This is a process that requires patience, persistence and a positive mindset. Embrace the challenges as opportunities for growth. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Take a deep breath, dive in and remember, you’re not alone.

Ready to thrive in your educational journey? Check out the programs at American College of Education to learn more.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of American College of Education.
Dominick Martin
Dominick Martin, M.S. in Organizational Leadership

Dominick Martin recently earned a B.S. in Applied Management and Leadership at American College of Education and will complete his M.S. in Organizational Leadership in 2024. He retired from the U.S. Army in 2022 after serving in various roles across Colorado, South Carolina and Washington D.C. Originally from New York, Martin now lives in South Carolina with his wife, and his three sons live nearby. He's passionate about Lean Six Sigma, SAFe 6 Agilist and the Palmetto Project Management Institute.

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