5 Reasons Not to Attend a Lecture

It's 6 AM already and you're in the middle of a dream. You have a lecture to attend in three hours. Can your body make the adjustment? Will you be able to focus during that time?

It was hard to imagine the university without the lecture in the old days. Then again, no one envisioned the future with gadgets and Wi-Fi. Many students have alternatives if they don't want to listen to a lecture. And they have reasons. Let's look at some of them:

You drift off after hearing the professor's voice. Your professors have feelings, as they would do their best to prepare for the lecture. Theories, even the basics, may not be appealing. Sitting for an hour or so can be excruciating. Nonetheless, it will be better to be taught such things in the lecture room. You can ask a question or two. You will learn something from your coursemates. Make sure you have a good meal before attending a lecture.

You can count on YouTube. This might be a good excuse not to leave your room. As a matter of fact, some students opt for it if they get tired of traveling from home to the university. (They don't live near the university, which is another matter.) There's a good chance that the speaker (in YouTube) is better. You might check out the latest music videos during your break. (Don't you like Adele's recent appearance in "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon"? ) But clarification is out of the question. It's true you can replay his lecture, but you might remember it and ask your professor (or coursemate) later.

You want to earn a little by the side. You happen to be one of those students whose parents can't afford a European holiday. (And your last trip happened many moons ago.) But you don't feel sorry for yourself. Tutoring helps you, but managing your time can be challenging. So you think your professor can understand your decision to skip a lecture, but it can be costly on your part. Think of the examination.

You don't want to sit. There's a huge difference between sitting inside a lecture room and in your room, with your housemates. It comes down to listening, not to mention the time of the day. (You forgot a beer or two.) Maybe exercising will help. (How about a walk? Don't forget your warm clothing.) Not everyone has the chance to attend the university, so don't take it for granted.

You're a special case. You might be a visual type of learner, where you don't understand everything at once. Trial and error may be required. (Better let your professors know about it. They don't have hearts of stone.) Disability can affect your concentration. It's fine, as long as you show your eagerness. Enthusiasm and dedication are included as well.