Top 5 Mistakes Students Make in Large Lecture Hall Classes

Don't think you can get away with these common missteps.

1. Not going to class: The class is so huge that the professor doesn’t know anyone’s name. Is it really important to go to class if no one is taking attendance? The answer is yes, absolutely. Attending class and paying attention to the lecture is the most efficient way for you to learn the material.

2. Sitting in the back: Sure, it’s comfortable back there and you can chat with your friends. But paying attention in a large lecture class is hard enough already. Do you really want to make it any harder?

3. Not buying the textbook: True, textbooks are incredibly expensive. It can be so easy to convince yourself that you won’t really need the book as long as you pay attention in class and take good notes. Or you might try to save money by sharing a book with your friend. Unfortunately, these money-saving schemes will cost you in the long run. Buy the book, and make sure you put in the time and effort to get the most out of it. Your transcript will thank you!

4. Enjoying the anonymity: The class may be enormous, but you should still make it a goal to become acquainted with the professor. Say hello before or after class, or go to office hours. You will still be a face in the crowd, but you can become a familiar face.

5. Eating in class: Don’t be the person disturbing everyone else with loud chewing noises, slurps, and the crackle of plastic takeout containers. You want your professor and classmates to think of you as “the one with the good ideas,” not “the one with the nachos.”