For many, this fall semester is about to look a whole lot different. With most universities across the country relying on remote learning to fulfill student's educational needs, bustling campuses may look a whole lot quieter come mid-August. So what does this mean for students? Routines we've grown to rely on will be altered and we'll have to get comfortable with a new normal. Here are 5 ways I am preparing for this upcoming semester to remain successful, motivated, and school-oriented at home.
1. Utilize An Hourly Planner
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Hourly planners truly saved my life my freshman year of college. Instead of quickly writing down everything you need to do for each day, setting specific times for each activity or class will do wonders for your productiveness. Ultimately, you'll end up saving time when you realize that that your three homework assignments of the day can be completed within the first 6 hours of your day. And that's a great feeling.
2. Get Active
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Going to the gym every single day sounds pretty rewarding, but for many people it's just not realistic. As someone who has never consistently worked out until very recently, I encourage you to simply find an activity you enjoy to get your blood pumping. For me, hot yoga has done wonders for my physical and mental health and isn't so exhausting that I lose all my stamina for the day. When you allocate time for some physical exercise, your mind will say thank you.
3. Early To Bed, Early To Rise
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As easy as it is to stay on your phone until 3 in the morning each night, going to bed at a decent time will save your life the next day. Instead of waking up groggy and sleep-deprived for your 10 AM Zoom meeting, you'll be able to focus in a lot better than usual without nodding off. If your classes start later in the day, I would still encourage you to try waking up early enough to plan out your day.
5. Breakfast Matters
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I know it's tempting to skip that first meal of the day, but you'll be glad you didn't. After years of not really eating breakfast in high school, I was shocked to see how differently I felt after grabbing a snack before my day really began. Go to the grocery store and find the easiest thing you can make for yourself that you know you enjoy and stick to making it each day. Your mid-class cravings will stop and you won't be needing that afternoon nap as often as you used to.
5. Make Time For Your Social Life
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When I really get into my study grind, I can let my classes completely overwhelm my life. Although it is important that students take their classes seriously, making time for your friends and family is just as valuable. Try to schedule a time once a week where you can have dinner with friends or go on a short beach trip to clear your mind. College is definitely not easy, so having a solid support system of people behind you is vital.
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