After the summer break, some NIU students might find getting into the swing of things a bit difficult, especially when it comes to academics.

Going from no credit hours to 15 or 18 is a task not all students can master easily. However, with the proper guidance and planning, students might find getting good grades and achieving their goals is possible.

Students might not be aware NIU offers free-of-charge services to help with study and learning skills, in addition to offering both personal counseling and tutoring.

The Learning Assistance and Study Skills Lab, located at 140 Carroll Ave., is open to all NIU students Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

LASSL Graduate Assistant Mark Ludden said the lab works in two ways: individual counseling and group workshops.

“Students shouldn’t look at LASSL as a remedial program. It’s a preventive program,” he said.

“Any student who is truly interested in maximizing his experience on campus should treat college endeavors with the same intensity and foresight as would a military strategist planning an assault,” Ludden said.

Weekly planning is necessary to make sure enough time is allotted for each class, he said. “The average undergraduate course requires two hours of studying for each hour in class, and one should not plan to do the two hour minimum at one sitting,” Ludden said.

Often students ask for advice on how to study, and LASSL has three general tips, Ludden said. “One, students need to limit external distractions such as visits from friends, the TV, radio and refrigerator. Two, they need to limit internal distractions, which are small errands or tasks that might take their minds off studying.”

The last point of advice is to find a suitable place to study. The most common, yet least suitable place to study, is the dorm room. “Though they might not like the idea, the best place to study is the library or a quiet study room,” Ludden said.

If a student has a particular problem which interferes with practicing good study habits, LASSL can refer the student to the Counseling and Student Development Center. The center offers no-cost personal counseling from professional psychiatrists.

LASSL can also refer students who need tutoring to the ACCESS Peer Assisted Learning center. Tutorial Coordinator Victoria Wohlt said the center offers personal tutoring and workshops.

“The tutoring service is free, but you need to apply and qualify for it. Most students who use our service are from low income families and receive financial aid,” Wohlt said.

She said if a student needs tutoring but doesn’t qualify for the ACCESS PAL service, then she can refer them to other tutors. “Our main concern is overall student retention,” Wohlt said.

Another service available is the College Reading and Learning classes. Program Director Norman Stahl said, “CIRE 190 College Reading and Study Skills should be a requirement for all NIU students.”

The class, which will be offered in the spring, teaches study strategies and tactics, so students can teach themselves how to study and improve their GPAs.