Directions: Complete the following activity, setting a goal for school for the semester.
| S.M.A.R.T. | Questions… |
| Specific | Does your goal clearly and specifically state what you are trying to achieve?
If your goal is particularly large or lofty, try breaking it down into smaller, specific SMART goals. |
| Measurable | How will you (and others) know if progress is being made on achieving your goal? Can you quantify or put numbers to your outcome? |
| Attainable | Is achieving your goal dependent on anyone else? Is it possible to reframe your goal so it only depends on you and not others? What factors may prevent you from accomplishing your goal? |
| Relevant | Why is achieving this goal important to you? What values in your life does this goal reflect?
What effect will achieving your goal have on your life or on others? |
| Time-bound | When will you reach your goal?
Again, if your goal is particularly large, try breaking it down into smaller goals with appropriate incremental deadlines. |
Today’s Date:
Date by which you plan to achieve your goal:
What is your goal in one sentence?
What are the benefits of achieving this goal?
Verify that your goal is SMART
Specific: What exactly will you accomplish?
Measurable: How will you (and others) know when you have reached your goal?
Attainable: Is attaining this goal realistic with effort and commitment? Do you have the resources to achieve this goal? If not, how will you get them?
Relevant: Why is this goal important to you? Why does it matter to you?
Time-Bound: When will you achieve this goal?
| Action Plan
What specific steps must you take to achieve your goal? This action plan may just get you started. Feel free to create a more detailed step-by-step plan. |
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| Task/To Do Item | Expected Completion Date | Date Actually Completed |
| Obstacles/Challenges
What obstacles stand in the way of you achieving your goal |
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| Obstacle | How will you address the challenge if/when it arises? |
Network of Support & Accountability
When working towards achieving a goal, it is helpful to have people whom support you and your efforts. Support looks like and sounds like listening to your goals, reminding you who you are and your values, challenging your decisions, and helping you make decisions that will make you the best version of yourself. Support does not look like or sound like telling you what to do, passing judgment, or giving ultimatums.
Deciding who you surround yourself in your journey to reach your goals is one of the most important decisions you will make in your life. “Your crew determines your view.”
Below make a list of people who support your efforts to reach your goal. Then, share with them what you hope to accomplish this semester and ask them to check in with you throughout the semester about your progress.
S.M.A.R.T. Goal Setting Activity
Today’s Date: January 13, 2026
Date by which you plan to achieve your goal: May 15, 2026
What is your goal in one sentence?
My goal is to successfully complete the semester with a GPA of 3.5 or higher by staying organized, completing assignments on time, and actively engaging in my courses.
What are the benefits of achieving this goal?
Achieving this goal will strengthen my academic confidence, improve my time-management skills, and position me for future academic and career opportunities. Maintaining a strong GPA will also reduce stress, support scholarship or program eligibility, and reinforce positive study habits that will benefit me beyond this semester.
Verify That Your Goal Is SMART
Specific: What exactly will you accomplish?
I will complete all coursework for the semester, submit assignments by their deadlines, study consistently for exams, and earn a final GPA of 3.5 or higher.
Measurable: How will you (and others) know when you have reached your goal?
Progress will be measured by:
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Assignment submission records
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Exam and quiz scores
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Midterm grades
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Final semester GPA of at least 3.5
Attainable: Is attaining this goal realistic with effort and commitment?
Yes, this goal is realistic with consistent effort. I have access to course syllabi, academic support services, online learning platforms, and instructors’ office hours. If challenges arise, I will seek tutoring, adjust my study schedule, and ask for clarification early.
Relevant: Why is this goal important to you? Why does it matter?
This goal is important because education is a key priority in my life. Achieving academic success this semester reflects my values of discipline, responsibility, and personal growth. Doing well academically will positively impact my future educational and career opportunities.
Time-Bound: When will you achieve this goal?
I will achieve this goal by the end of the semester on May 15, 2026.
Action Plan
| Task / To-Do Item | Expected Completion Date | Date Actually Completed |
|---|---|---|
| Review all course syllabi and deadlines | January 20, 2026 | |
| Create a weekly study schedule | January 22, 2026 | |
| Complete and submit assignments on time | Ongoing (weekly) | |
| Study at least 1–2 hours per course each week | Ongoing | |
| Attend office hours or tutoring if needed | As needed | |
| Review grades and adjust strategies | Mid-semester |
Obstacles / Challenges
| Obstacle | How will you address the challenge if/when it arises? |
|---|---|
| Procrastination | Break assignments into smaller tasks and set mini-deadlines |
| Time management | Use a planner or digital calendar to schedule study time |
| Stress or burnout | Take short breaks, prioritize sleep, and practice self-care |
| Difficult course content | Seek help early from instructors or tutoring services |
Network of Support & Accountability
The following individuals will support me in achieving my goal:
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Family members who encourage my education
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Friends or classmates who study with me
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An instructor, advisor, or mentor who can offer academic guidance
I will share my goal with them and ask them to check in with me periodically throughout the semester to help keep me accountable and motivated.
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