Applications of Learning Theory

Kayla Benitez-Alvarez, MCAS '22

 "As a first-generation college student, I felt that I lacked the skills to be academically successful at Boston College. My orientation advisor recommended that I take Applications of Learning Theory to learn strategies for successful learning. Taking the course my first semester of college was extremely beneficial as I was able to apply course concepts and skills to my very first midterm exams and papers. I believe in the course so much that I eventually became a TA where I work with fellow TAs and first and second-year students who had similar fears and goals when they entered BC. I'm extremely grateful for the course and continue to use the material I learned in ALT now as a senior, and will take these skills into graduate school as well."

Katie Hanrahan, MCAS '22

 "I signed up to take Applications of Learning Theory as a second semester freshman. My first semester at BC proved more challenging than I was expecting it to be, and my previous ways of studying and managing my time that used to work in high school were no longer working in the college setting. I was really struggling to adapt to the workload and way that professors were presenting material. The class, and my 1:1 sessions with my TA, allowed me to develop new ways of taking notes, studying for exams, and managing my time that overall assisted in my growth as a student. By the end of the semester, I had regained the confidence in my ability to do well in classes that I had initially lost after that first semester. I wanted to help other students have the same kind of experience that I did, so I applied to work as a TA for the course. The past 3 years working as a TA have been so rewarding; I have loved getting to help other students find confidence in their ability to excel at BC. The relationships I have developed with my fellow TAs and the staff at Learning to Learn are ones that I hope to continue well after graduation."

Elaine Keleta, MCAS '24

 "Applications of Learning Theory is the perfect course for first-gen students, and students who just need guidance when it comes to college, because it can be intimidating. Academics, social life, extracurricular activities, and work study, all aspects of college life are highlighted in this course, to help you succeed and have support throughout college. I had a huge turnaround academically when I took this course because it was holistic and impacted every other aspect of my college life."

Jared Waite, MCAS '24

"College presented me with many new challenges, compared to high school that I was not necessarily prepared for. I lacked experience in time and task management resulting in lots of unproductive hours in the library, so I took Applications of Learning Theory in the second semester of my freshman year looking for a change. This course presented me with the tools I needed to increase my work efficiency, productivity, and organization, allowing me to actually spend less time studying while still performing well. I am very appreciative of the connections I have made during my time as an Applications of Learning Theory student and as a TA for the course this past year. The Learning to Learn staff have truly been some of the kindest, most selfless people I have met here at Boston College and have made me feel so welcomed as a TA. I will close by saying that my experience with Learning to Learn has taught me that effort and dedication are paramount both in academics and in one’s personal life, so no matter what gets thrown your way, keep trying and don’t give up!"