Whether you are the freshman setting foot on campus for the first time, or the battle-worn senior setting foot for some of the last times, time management is an essential part of college life. Between classes, studying, that part-time job, and campus activities, it can sometimes seem like there is too much to do and not enough you. Time management is a difficult craft to master, so here are some tips to help along the way.
1. Plan to use a Planner
Freshman, prepare. This is the first of many times you will hear this statement. Even when taking the minimum of 12 hours of classes, the assignments will be almost guaranteed to be at random days and times. There is no better way to keep track of the many due dates and events in your life than a planner. Write down everything, I promise you will not remember the due date of that essay that is half your grade, but your planner will!
Color coding is optional, but always helpful!
2. Prioritize
Whether you actually write this step down as a list, or you just mentally go through the steps, prioritizing is the only way to keep sane amid the insanity. You may very well have two things on the same day and will have to choose. Do not be afraid to miss some social events to get work done, sometimes it becomes a necessity.
3. Stock up on the Post-it Notes
Although you already have written down all the important dates in your planner, it never hurts to have daily reminders where you see them each morning. Post-it Notes can be used for the little things like remembering any medications or appointments. But they are also great for little motivational quotes to jump-start your day!
4. Know Your Limits
Even the best students have to take breaks away from their studies sometimes. Know that you are going to have to go on that jog, or binge watch a "few" episodes on Netflix, and plan for it. You can guess how much time an assignment will take and can plan for it. Likewise, you will know how much time your brain needs to take a break for a while.
