What is a good structured way of balancing my studying and college life so that I am not creating bad habits early in my college life?
I am going to play football for Texas Lutheran University, and I am very excited for the college life ahead. When I exert more thought into the whole process, I begin to think about having to balance my studying and college social/athletic life, and I want to be able to thrive in the classroom for the sake of my future. #college-advice
4 answers
Richard’s Answer
Go to class. Plan to spend 2-3 hours studying for every hour of lecture. Attend your professor's office hours and any TA review sessions. If there is a test bank, use that as a study tool to understand what your professor wants you to focus on for the test.
Rachel’s Answer
Glenn’s Answer
Great that you are mature enough to think about this ahead of time. Too many young adults start college without focus. I like to have lists. What is on the critical path and what would I like to do? Critical is to get an education in an area that you can use when you graduate, then football. On the like to have list is girl/boy friend and parties. Reassess this at least at the start of every semester and make adjustments.
The old story is about filling a jar half way with sand, then put in pebble and then but in rocks and you cannot close the lid. If you start with the rocks, then the pebbles, and then the sand, it all fits. it is about making sure that the more important things are done first and you can fill in the gaps with the smaller and less important items. Or homework and studying for a test is more important than a social life.
Glenn recommends the following next steps:
Kim’s Answer
Vincent,
You've already received some excellent pointers. To that, I would like to add:
I found the time during the day, when I did not have classes scheduled, was the best time for studying and working on assignments. So, if you have two classes back to back, and then a two class break, you have time to grab a bite to eat, and then find a secluded spot to work on school work. Otherwise, this time is spent socializing, and you end up having to do too much on evenings and weekends.
You really want to stay caught up on everything. Read lessons before class so the lectures make more sense. And whatever subjects are more difficult for you, make sure to hit them when you are most alert. Take advantage of any tutoring or resource lab assistance if you need help!
Enjoy TLU - it's a beautiful campus!!!
Kim