Undergraduate Programs

So you’ve found yourself in a group project. You may be thinking: ‘Why do teachers do this to students? It’s really unfair to make us work together and be graded for it! …that’s so not how the real world works.’ Hate to break it to you, but in a business career, you usually have to collaborate with your colleagues.  Group projects are a way to simulate a work place problem and give you a chance to develop your teamwork skills. It may be a tough few weeks (especially if you have some slackers in your group), but remember you are refining your communication skills, time management ability, etc. that will make you successful later on in life.  Plus, Albers loves group project so one is in your future.   So here are some tips for getting through a group project: Take a deep breath. Usually group projects seem overwhelming/ a TON of work when you first get the prompt. Remember you are going to have a team to help you get it all done. You are not alone. Define roles within your group. This helps make sure things get done and tends to make people act more responsibly because they know what they are supposed to do. This could also just be allocating tasks or making someone a contact person. Create a timeline and goals!! Your teachers might do this for you in many projects, but if not, go ahead and figure out when you want everything to be done at the beginning of the project. Set goals so that you have something to strive toward! Communication is soooo valuable! When you are having trouble finishing your part or help thinking of ideas, talk to your team! Respond to emails from your project! If you have a member who is being a free rider, talk to him/her. They might be unaware they are not contributing. These are just a few tips. There are many other ways to successfully navigate your way through a group project. Group projects always seem daunting, but the best way to get through it is to be positive and try to work as a team! -Aimee, NSM