Time Management for College Students

Summary

The Eastern Kentucky University's Student Success Center introduces a time management guide for college students, emphasizing the shift from structured high school schedules to the self-directed college environment. The script advises students to categorize controllable and uncontrollable aspects of their day, use a planner to set priorities, and establish healthy routines including study times and self-care. It also suggests time-saving hacks like efficient study spaces, utilizing downtime for review, and minimizing distractions. The key takeaway is to approach time management positively, hold oneself accountable, and build sustainable habits for success.

Takeaways

• 😀 Time management in college is significantly different from high school, requiring students to be more self-directed and responsible for their schedules.
• 🕒 It's important to categorize your day into controllable and uncontrollable parts to better manage your time effectively.
• 📅 Keeping a planner is highly recommended to visualize your schedule and set priorities, including both fixed commitments and personal time.
• 🛏️ Incorporating a healthy sleep schedule and meal times into your planner is crucial for maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
• 📚 A detailed study plan should be established early in the day, as the brain is more effective for learning during these hours.
• 🧘‍♂️ Self-care time is essential and should be scheduled to allow the brain to relax without feeling guilty about not studying.
• 📚 Efficient use of study time includes preparing your study space and materials, and choosing an environment that promotes concentration.
• 🛌 Avoid studying in bed to prevent mixed messages to your brain about the purpose of the space.
• 🚶‍♂️ Utilize downtime, such as laundry time or walking between classes, for reviewing flashcards or mentally rehearsing key concepts.
• 🚫 Limit distractions during study time by using apps that can block distracting programs on your devices.
• 🏆 Approach your schedule with positivity, hold yourself accountable, and reward yourself for sticking to your plan.
• 🔄 Regularly assess and adjust your schedule after a few weeks to ensure it meets your needs and helps build sustainable habits.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the 'Time Management for College Students' video?

The main focus is to help college students understand the importance of time management, how to categorize controllable and uncontrollable parts of their day, and how to build good habits for effective time use.

Why is time management more challenging in college compared to high school?

In college, students face the challenge of self-regulation without the structured schedules and guidance provided in high school, such as bells signaling when to move to the next class or activities.

What is the significance of distinguishing between controllable and uncontrollable parts of the day in time management?

Distinguishing between these parts helps students to identify areas where they can exercise control and make intentional decisions to manage their time more effectively.

Why is keeping a planner recommended for effective time management?

A planner helps students visualize their schedule, set priorities, and organize their time for various activities, including study, work, socializing, and self-care.

What is the first step in using a planner according to the video script?

The first step is to write a detailed schedule that includes all elements of the day, starting with the uncontrollable parts such as class times and work schedule.

How should students approach their study plan according to the video?

Students should ensure their study plan is set for early in the day, as the brain is more effective at learning earlier rather than later at night.

Why is it important to include self-care time in a student's schedule?

Including self-care time is crucial for the brain to relax well, preventing feelings of guilt about not studying and allowing for better mental health and focus.

What are some time-saving hacks suggested in the video for college students?

Some hacks include making efficient use of study time, finding a good study space, using time for laundry to review flashcards or watch educational videos, and rehearsing key terms while walking between classes.

Why is it advised not to study in bed according to the video?

Studying in bed sends mixed messages to the brain about the purpose of the space, which can lead to ineffective studying and sleeping.

How can students limit distractions during their study time as suggested in the video?

Students can use apps recommended on the video's website to prevent distractions from programs on their computer and phone.

What is the final advice given in the video for students to stick to their study schedule?

The final advice is to approach time with positivity, hold oneself accountable, and reward oneself for sticking to the schedule, including scheduling reward time during the week.

How should students assess and adjust their time management strategy after a few weeks?

Students should evaluate how their current schedule is working, identify classes that may require more or less time, and adjust accordingly to build habits that work for them.