What is in it for you?

Students often earn a higher course grade if they attend SI sessions regularly, and SI results from previous semesters show the difference between students who attend SI and those who do not.  By attending SI sessions, students develop a better understanding of the course content and develop more effective ways of studying. The skills and techniques learned in SI will help students in future semesters and other courses as well.

Here's what one student had to say in an email to her SI leader this semester:

"I just took the first General Psychology test. I cannot tell you how much your study guides helped me!! I had to e-mail you right away to tell you because they were extremely useful. Thank you so much!"

What are the Academic Benefits of SI?

• Better course grade and a higher GPA.
• The material you master is valuable in other courses.
• Learn the language (jargon) of the the course by talking with other students.
• Encourages understanding of the course material through multiple student perspectives.
• Learn to study more effectively and efficiently to increase free time.
• Veteran student perspective gives students insight into questions the professor may ask.
• Learn study skills to help with current and future courses.
• Knowledge stays fresh in your mind, and review of information is ongoing.
• Able to ask questions about course material to a small group of peers instead of the large lecture hall of students.
• Learning and studying with others helps you recognize and learn important information that you may have missed or not understood before you take an exam.
• Being in a relaxed environment where the information is discussed in a different way.

What are the Personal Benefits of SI?

• Opportunity to meet other student in class, form study groups, and possibly make life-long friends.
• Meet students to sit by in class that provide motivation to go to class.
• Opportunity to talk with SI leaders, who are successful students, about how to be a successful student.
• Meet students with who you can form study groups.
• Improve communication skills.
• Talking with other students and the SI leader about majors, what to expect, classes to take, and other advice.
• Get motivated to take responsibility for your own learning and personal development.
• Increase your self-confidence in academic and social interactions.

What are the Cognitive Benefits of SI?

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• Greater understanding of the course material.
• Develop higher-level thinking skills.
• Test your knowledge of the material before class quizzes and exams.
• Increase awareness of and tolerance for ambiguity or complexity.
• Gain understanding of multiple perspectives by working with a diverse group of students.
• Practice critical thinking skills in the context of the course material.

What are the Career Benefits of SI?

• The ability to learn collaboratively is a vital skill that employers look for in employees.
• Learn how work in an integrated team environment.
• Interaction with SI leader and other students can help you learn about possible internships, research opportunities, scholarships, and graduate school.