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What are the best study tips and schedules for balancing self-care, social life, and academics in STEM? #Spring25
I am a senior in highschool who plans to major in Neuroscience. I took rigorous STEM classes before, like Anatomy and Psychology, but it was difficult balancing everything, and it took a major toll on my mental and physical health. Detailed flashcards on Quizlet are my main way to study, but I was wondering if there were better alternatives.
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Tom’s Answer
This might not be the exact advice you're seeking, but I was once a pre-med student and took many tough classes in college. To balance things out, I decided to take some Art and photography classes. These gave me a break from the stress and let me enjoy something fun and easy. You might be surprised at how much employers appreciate this kind of balance. Instead of just focusing on study methods, think about what non-STEM activities you can do for self-care!
I promise that once you start college, your study habits will grow with you, and you'll discover what works best. Talking openly with your professors is my top tip. If you're feeling stressed or behind, they can offer support and it shows you're more engaged than most students. The fact that you're already asking these questions means you're ahead of many others!
I promise that once you start college, your study habits will grow with you, and you'll discover what works best. Talking openly with your professors is my top tip. If you're feeling stressed or behind, they can offer support and it shows you're more engaged than most students. The fact that you're already asking these questions means you're ahead of many others!
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Nadine’s Answer
1. Blurting Technique
After reading or watching a video, close the material and write everything you remember on a blank page. Then check what you missed. Super effective for content-heavy subjects like Psychology and Neuroanatomy.
2. Interleaved Practice
Mix subjects in one study session. Instead of doing all Anatomy then all Psychology, do 30 mins of each. It improves memory retention and mimics how your brain retrieves info in real-life situations.
3. Teach Back or “Feynman Technique”
Explain topics to a friend, your pet, or even a plant. If you get stuck or overly technical, it shows where you need review.
After reading or watching a video, close the material and write everything you remember on a blank page. Then check what you missed. Super effective for content-heavy subjects like Psychology and Neuroanatomy.
2. Interleaved Practice
Mix subjects in one study session. Instead of doing all Anatomy then all Psychology, do 30 mins of each. It improves memory retention and mimics how your brain retrieves info in real-life situations.
3. Teach Back or “Feynman Technique”
Explain topics to a friend, your pet, or even a plant. If you get stuck or overly technical, it shows where you need review.