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Friday, Mar 29, 2024
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The key to sucess: time management



Mercer students are known for their extracurricular involvement. Unfortunately, too much of a good thing can leave students feeling over-committed and stressed out. Time management is an important asset to master in college, so homework can get done while still leaving time for organizations/clubs and socializing.

Remember these tips when college life seems overwhelming.
The first and most important thing to remember is that even though you may want to join five different organizations or clubs, it probably isn’t a good idea. Remember why you are in college: to get an education, not to be president of every club on campus.
Pick a couple organizations to invest time in. Not only will it reduce stress, but you will also be able to get more deeply involved in those few clubs rather than being semi-involved in 7.
As far as academics go, procrastinating is your worst enemy. It is important to stay on top of assignments. Class syllabi are a great way to do this.
Read over the syllabus for each class. If your professor has provided you with a schedule outlining what assignments are expected in class, look at it carefully. Refer to this schedule often, noting which assignments are due immediately and which assignments are due later.
Writing assignments down in a planner or on a calendar will help you visualize when each one is due. It is also an easy way to stay organized and keep track of assignments.
Your syllabus schedule will also help show how quickly you will be learning material. In a class where you struggle, it may be a good idea to look over the next section of lessons before that class. Familiarizing yourself with the content makes it easier to absorb, and gives you more time to focus on homework rather than relearning what was taught in class.
When it’s time to study, creating your own schedule will help you stay on task. Decide which assignments are most important, and tackle those first.
Study your material for a set time, then move onto the next thing. Avoid cramming sessions and all-nighters. These typically do more harm than good.
Remember to take a break and reward yourself. If you have studied and worked hard all afternoon, go out with friends that night, read a book or just watch TV.
However, studying for ten minutes and then spending 30 minutes on Facebook does not count as a break. It will just leave you more distracted and unmotivated.
Find a study space free of distractions and use it. If your roommate always has friends over, your room may not be the best place to study. The library is a perfect, quiet place to study. Many students use the old co-op in the student center as a spot for group study sessions. And if it isn’t too hot, studying outside can make homework seem a little more fun.
Figure out what works for you and stick to it. If you need music to study, create a playlist to keep you motivated. If working in a group leads to distractions, try and study on your own.
Above all, remember that you still need sleep. Getting rest every night is important for staying healthy and on task. It will also keep you from falling asleep while doing an assignment!


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