This blog may be about college styles and fashion but I feel it’s also important to contribute a few tips for the REAL reason why we’re all where we are: our classes!
01. Don’t let your reading assignments pile up.
Try to finish your required assignments on time and follow the schedule on the syllabus for each class. Readings are spaced out that way for a reason and it’s a bad idea to skip even once because you’ll end up falling more behind when it turns into a habit. You may not feel it at first but it’s really going to hurt once you’re scrambling to get everything done before a midterm or final. Stay away from the “I can catch up later” mentality!
02. Keep a daily planner and schedule study times.
Allotting time for each class is a perfect way to keep on task and do well in your classes. It’s also important to write down your assignments once they’re assigned because it’s more reliable than making a mental note. Check out the organizers community on livejournal! It’s easier to keep up when you’re organized!
03. Stay away from your computer and the internet.
Try to limit the amount of time you spend online. I’m not saying you should avoid it completely but when classes and work start to kick in, the internet can turn into a pretty nasty distraction. (it’s okay to go on Chictopia though, ahahaha!) Everything is good in moderation!
04. Study in another setting like a cafe or library.
The worst distractions can be found at home (especially the one mentioned above) and if you find yourself procrastinating too much, try changing the setting. Cafes are everywhere in college towns and are usually within walking distance. It’s easy to order a drink and get your stuff done! If you’re more into a quiet study setting, try the library! You’ll be completely free from all distractions and forced to finish your work.
05. Study in groups.
When midterms roll around, study groups are perfect for comprehending the material and making sure you’re on the right page. When you’re in class try to bond with the people around you! It’s a little awkward at first but it really helps to know someone in the class in case you miss anything.
06. Take breaks and don’t overwork yourself.
Studying and getting stuff done is important but you also need to be aware of what your limits are. Space things out as much as you can and take occasional breaks! Don’t let them become too long or else you’ll be thrown off your schedule.
07. Get enough sleep.
I cannot begin to emphasize how crucial it is to get enough sleep every night! My freshman year, I went a little overboard and thought I could get away with only 5 or so hours of sleep a night. NOT A VERY GOOD IDEA! When I started getting 8 hours of sleep a night, I felt so much better throughout the day. DON’T FALL ASLEEP DURING CLASS! I’m not going to lie, I think it’s stupid when people show up to class just to fall asleep. You’ll miss out on all the juicy stuff! It’s not only disrespectful but it will also hurt you in the long run.
08. Tired? Drink coffee, tea, or anything caffeinated!
Ideally you want to aim for those 8 hours a night but sometimes situations are out of your control and things may not work out that way. If you’re tired and unable to concentrate try a cup of coffee! If coffee’s not your thing, tea is also a good alternative. I’d stay away from energy drinks but if that’s your preference, go right on ahead. However, once again, this only works in moderation. Don’t overdo it!
09. Go to office hours.
If there’s something you don’t understand, go to your instructors’ office hours. Those times are scheduled for a reason! It’s a good idea to bring up any doubts or problems you have so you’re prepared for class and exams. If the professor’s in your major department, it’s also not a bad idea to start up a conversation about your major!
10. Don’t put off your papers.
Okay, I’m a little guilty of this (I’m putting a short paper off right now!) but I’m trying to change that! Working on a paper for a span of time longer than one night is ideal because it allows you to fully test out and revise your work. Follow the tip above and go to office hours for help! The best way to get the result you want is to find out what the your grader expects from you and keep communication open. I also wouldn’t hurt to try out a rough draft!
And yes, I really am this nerdy! If anyone (especially freshmen) has any questions or wants more tips, message me! I’m more than willing to help everyone out. After I finish this two page paper, of course D:
xoxo,
annabel
ps.
It took 10+ tries to get this shot right! The final result is actually an accident because those two books fell right when self timer went off!! More proof that I am a really awkward person in real life.
