The Peer Academic Leader (PAL), Fraternity and UMKC (FSA) Program held their first joint Academic Success Workshop on Wednesday afternoon at the Students’ Union.
The workshop leaders called “Your GPA Is Bad But You Don’t,” which focused on providing study tips and suggestions for prioritizing assignments while also reminding students that GPAs do not equal self-esteem.
“You are so much more than your grades and GPA,” said Riley Jamison, one of the workshop leaders and chair of the Panhellenic Collegiate Council. “One exam, one semester, one semester doesn’t define you in any way.”
While Jamieson and her crew directed the workshop towards the students who participated in Greek life, everyone was welcome to attend.
“This is the first time we are having a workshop of this kind based on some conversations about what will best benefit the Greek community,” said Susi Krulewicz, PAL Program Director.
Jamison, who is also a member of the Delta Zeta sorority, said past issues with the organization’s academics are why the workshop is important to her.
“Our organization’s overall GPA is down from last semester,” Jamison said. We want to prioritize [academics] in our community because that’s something we really advocate for.”
Last week’s workshop leaders also discussed how to get the most out of a study session, how to prioritize tasks and guidelines on time management.
Calvin Flemons, a first-year pharmacy student and member of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, also attended the workshop.
“I learned to write everything,” Philemons said. “I can do a brain drain so I don’t have to keep everything in there. And I learned study tips and time management tips that I can apply to the class and to myself.”
Workshop leaders also provided handouts on self-care practices and constantly reminded students that their GPA is not determined by them.
“Once I got into college, I realized it was tough,” Jamison said. “When I failed my first exam, I thought the world would end when it really wasn’t.”
The PAL, Sibling Affairs and Children’s Club plan to continue their partnership and host more academic workshops throughout the semester.
For more information on upcoming workshops and events, visit the Panhellenic Council’s PAL, Instagramsumkcpalprogram and umkcpanhellenic.
lbb5ky@mail.umkc.edu