Balancing work and study is essential in education, but how can you achieve this? Here are 10 tips to help you achieve a better balance and succeed at Ohio Business College (OBC).

10 Tips for Succeeding in Trade School at OBC

Here are 10 tips to help you succeed and get the most out of your time at OBC.

Tip #1: Set Clear Goals

Know why you are attending trade school. Whether you want to become a certified electrician, HVAC technician, a licensed practical nurse, or a professional truck driver, setting clear goals gives you direction. Write your goals down and review them on a regular basis.

Tip #2: Show Up Every Day

At OBC, attendance matters. Missing a class means missing out on learning something important, so make being present a habit. For instance, missing a truck driving simulation could mean you miss learning how to handle tough road conditions.

Tip #3: Stay Organized

Trade school moves fast so keep a notebook for each class. Use a calendar to track deadlines, study groups, tests, and labs. Good organization makes it easier to study and reduces stress. To stay organized, create a checklist for each week so you can track your progress on assignments, like completing wiring diagrams or preparing for patient care labs.

Tip #4: Practice Hands-On Skills

At OBC, you don’t just sit in a classroom, you learn by doing. Take every lab and practice session seriously. The more you practice, the stronger your skills will get. For example, if you are in the Nursing program, practice taking vital signs until you can do it quickly and correctly every time. Your future patients will be happy you did.

Tip #5: Ask Questions

If you don’t understand something, speak up. Your instructors are here to help. Asking questions shows you care about learning and want to get it right. For example, if you are unsure about how to wire a circuit safely, asking now can prevent mistakes later on the job.

Tip #6: Build Relationships with Your Instructors

Your instructors have real-world experience and know what employers are looking for in a job candidate. They can give you tips that you won’t find in a textbook. Stay connected, listen to their advice, and learn from their experience.

Tip #7: Create Study Groups

Learning with others makes a big difference. Find classmates who want to succeed and create a study group. Study together, practice skills, and help each other stay on track. If you are studying for your CDL license, meeting with classmates can help you review rules and practice map reading.

Tip #8: Manage Your Time Well

Balancing school, work, and life can be tough. Set a schedule and stick to it. Give yourself enough time for classes, studying, sleeping, and resting. Use your smartphone alarm or calendar to block time off. For example, you might reserve Saturdays for catching up on assignments and Monday evenings for review sessions.

Tip #9: Stay Positive During Challenges

There will be hard days, and you might get frustrated. You might make a mistake on a weld or a wiring job. Don’t let it stop you. Now is the time to learn your trade under the close supervision of an instructor with industry experience.

Tip #10: Keep Your Eye on the Future

Trade school is a step toward your future career. Think about where you want to be after graduation. Do you picture yourself fixing air conditioners, assisting in a hospital, or driving across the country? Stay focused on the bigger picture. Write down the kind of job you want and the career you are working toward and remind yourself of it often.

Want to Learn More?

Ohio Business College offers stellar career education programs for Ohioans. The quality instruction is affordable and comprehensive, giving students the best education for their money with the added convenience of living at home. Apply today and be ready to seize the opportunities waiting for you in Ohio’s job market.

If you are interested in trade and healthcare programs, let OBC answer any questions. Contact us today to learn more about our programs.