Leaves are changing colors, there’s a nice crisp to the air in the mornings, and Starbucks has come out with all of our fall favorites. It is hard to believe that we are already in autumn. Yet, with all the lovely colors of fall come not-so-colorful papers, tests, quizzes, exams, and assignments. When all we want to do is just curl up and rest, the ever-pressing load of schoolwork keeps us bent over our laptops, tablets, and books. While study and classwork are essential, life is much more than tests and essays. No one wants to spend their college days in perpetual study. (And if you do, then good for you?) So how can we manage? Here are a few tips to help you handle school and life balance better.
Tip number one: plan out your day. You have probably heard this a million times, but get a planner and use it to write what you must do that day. Create a schedule to prioritize what you will be doing that specific day. For myself, I use my planner to write a To-Do List of what assignments I need to complete and for which class. Prioritize! You cannot expect to accomplish everything all the time, so pick what items must be done and which can wait. (But only put some of them on the waiting list!) And set aside specific time to work on those things. You are more likely to commit to it if it is scheduled.
Tip number two: figure out how you study best. For me, I learn best when in a quiet environment. I typically read the material for the class. I also actively read it by filling out the study guide or doing the assignment while reading, forcing myself to engage with the material. I also pause and quiz myself over what I learned so far to make sure I understand. This makes your study time more effective, so you will not have to study as long or hard.
Tip number three: include breaks and rest times in your schedule. Studying for long periods can actually hinder the quality of your study time. So, give yourself a brain break. Go for a walk. Listen to music while you tidy up your room. Go grab some food and socialize with friends. Give your brain time to process and retain the information.
Tip number four: choose and develop an activity or hobby you enjoy. Try drawing, playing an instrument, or volunteering in your desired organization. For myself, I take two hours every week to teach at my local Pathfinder club, Niles Four Flags, as it provides me with motivation and meaningful purpose outside of school.
Tip number five: get out there. You have developed an excellent study routine and a working schedule that helps you get things done. But pay attention to the social aspect of college! Go out and socialize with your peers at events and during meals. You never know who you might meet.
Tip number six: learn to make healthy choices. It might be tempting to skip sleep for study or fun, but sleep is crucial to your well-being. Healthful and wholesome eating, staying hydrated, and exercising are some other ways you can take care of your body and mind.
Tip number seven: learn to say no. There are only so many hours in a day, and you cannot possibly expect to do everything. So pick and choose what you want to do and what you can do.
In summary, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for creating a study-life balance. Some guidelines can help you determine what that would mean for you, but ultimately, it is up to you to figure out what works best for you. And remember, it is for you alone, so do not base your decisions on the actions of others.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.