Studying. It’s often paired with tears, Tumblr, dozens of Jimmy Kimmel and Ellen YouTube videos, and self-loathing. I start off with good intentions; I really do. It’s just that I suddenly realize how much Netflix I haven’t been watching when I’m within the company of Mary Wollstonecraft and Robert Burns. I get hungry. I get tired. I get uncomfortable. I get cranky. I essentially transform into an infant.
The big idea here, is how to overcome this requirement for hourly feedings and wardrobe changes. Now if anyone were to Google or Pinterest ideas on how to study, he or she will be bombarded with a plethora of information. This is simply, my personal take on academic success. That will first, require less studying in the first place and second, make studying easier. Oh, and yes. I am composing this list while avoiding responsibilities. Thank you for noticing.
1. Go to class.
Now this one may come to a shocker to you, seeing as how your classes are being paid for by someone, but you should both physically and mentally show up to class. I don’t just mean syllabus day. EVERY DAY. Yep, that 8 a.m. I know, I know. It’s literally (or not so literally) torture. Actually no. Don’t even sign up for an 8 a.m. What’s wrong with you? You’re basically asking for a challenge. If you stay up even semi-late, this is not the class for you. You’re brain isn’t even functioning yet. Take 9 a.m. or later classes and show up. Drink something and eat something (pretty much anything) before you go. Being fed and hydrated, like the infants we are, helps maintain our attentiveness, thus retaining more information.
2. Dedicate your time.
The word “dedicate” made you throw up a little didn’t it? It’s okay. It’s not that bed. All you have to do is dedicate one day of the week (you can switch it up every week who cares). Just dedicate that day to one or two hours of library time. Go to a quiet spot and switch your phone on airplane mode. Rewrite notes. Read the chapter (you paid for the book, might as well use it). Go over a PowerPoint. Sometimes I make myself a study guide that looks neat and official so I will be motivated to finish it. Whatever works. Avoid internet and socializing. These will be the death of you.
3. Use color!
With a short attention span, I have a hard time staying on track with super boring worksheets or excruciatingly long passages in a book. So to keep myself focused, I have a plethora of multi-colored high-lighters. I highlight as I read and switch the color every two or three lines. It sounds simple, but it really does make a world of difference. I have always had the mindset that organized and attractive study guides will be remembered.
4. Back study.
This means don’t cram. PLAN. Get a stinking planner. This will SAVE YOUR ENTIRE LIFE. Take it with you everywhere. The only thing that will surprise you is class being canceled and free food. All good things. College is really just a matter of putting the right thing on the back burner at the right times. Study for days in advance. Your brain retains information more efficiently and you won’t feel like a vegetable, walking out of the library wondering what day it is or why you’re wearing flip flops in December.
5. Take care of yourself.
Sounds lame? It’s not.Just take a break while you’re cramming. I know you’ll forget to back study more than a few times. So make sure you take a break and do something physical. Even if it’s just walking from one study location to another (which is actually very helpful for your mind), moving around helps. Take a shower. You probably needed one anyway. Check Instagram. Go to the park and walk around barefoot. Clean your room. Progress feeds progress.
6. Sleep.
This is my favorite part about studying. It has been proven time and time again that getting those 5-7 hours is way more effective than pulling an all-nighter. If you’ve studied, let your brain retain the information and reboot for the next day. Allowing your mind and body to relax, actually helps. When you wake up, go over a few flash cards, eat something, and pray as you’re walking to class.
I made it through freshman year with a 4.0 and plenty of memories. Just remember that it is possible and you can do it.
