Finals are coming fast and I noticed me and a lot of my friends are stressed out. In these tough times I like to ask my more organized peers for advice on how to stay focused and get stuff done.
My friend Lauryn Rosinski has had a lot on her plate this year but she manages to stay on top of things and is a great student. I was able to interview her and get some ideas on how to survive the last few weeks of classes.
What year are you in school?
I am a junior in college.
What is your major?
I am a Public Relations major with a minor in Public Communication.
How many classes are you taking?
This semester, I had to take 6 college classes. Thankfully, I finished my 9 week online course.
How many projects are you working on?
I just finished my Communications project. I am now working on one other project for my PR Publications course, and I am writing a paper for my PR Case Studies class.
Do you have a job?
I have two jobs. I work as a campus tour guide, and I also work at the Kent State Call Center.
What extracurriculars do you participate in?
I wish I could be more involved on campus. I used to be in Phi Mu. However, due to the amount of stress from work and classes, I had to drop. I am a member of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), but again, I wish I could be a more active member. It just becomes difficult to juggle extracurricular activities with schoolwork and work.
Everyone's big question, do you have time for a social life?
I try to fit in a social life as much as I can. Sometimes it gets in the way. For example, at times I really should be focusing on writing a paper- however, at the same time, all I want to do is talk about life and the struggles of college with my friends. Thankfully we are all in this together.
How do you manage to balance everything?
When I have a lot of work to do, I make myself a schedule. I give myself fifteen minutes between every hour of studying and work to text, go on social media, or get food with friends. Sometimes I do not stick to the schedule, but I find it is the most effective way to get quality work done.
Do you have any studying tips?
My studying tip is to go to a quiet location that is not necessarily comfortable. The library is a perfect place to go. I always used to want to study in bed, but I always fell asleep.
I know a big concern with students is being able to graduate. Will you be graduating on time?
I will be graduating on time!
Are there any specific resources you use to make college life easier?
I really use the library's resources. I also ask my professors if I ever need any help.
What is your favorite part about college?
My favorite part of college is the amount of free time to be able to study, work, and see friends. In high school, I felt like I never had any free time. Now, if I need to squeeze in hours of studying or if I need to just sit and watch Netflix, I feel like I have the time to do so.
Any other advice about college in general?
My advice is to not let the man get you down. Just kidding. In all seriousness, put your mental and physical health before grades. Pulling all-nighters might seem like a great idea, but they can be detrimental to your overall well-being.
Chin up everyone! Start studying and staying focused. There's only a few more classes left and then we get a winter break. If you feel like you need help or are struggling, ask your friends and classmates. We're all in this together and you can always find someone willing to help out!
