3 answers
Lauren
Student
Attleboro, Massachusetts
1
Question
Updated
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What is the best way to stay on top of assignments and motivated in college? #Fall25
I'm senior who has just finished applying to colleges and have heard back from four. I am interested in animal science, specifically nutrition. It's my ultimate goal to earn a masters degree in the field, and I want to set myself up for success as an incoming freshman!
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3 answers
Jerrica Krzywicki
Services Business Manager
4
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Jerrica’s Answer
Congrats on your upcoming graduation and big decisions! Going into college can be a big change, but remember that you've gotten yourself to this point, so take a breath and appreciate that!
What has worked for you in High School and during your admissions process? Remember that what works for one person might not work for another, so think about your own experience. Is there anything that you found yourself doing that you "know" could be done better?
For me, I have always been a physical planner person; I need to write down due dates, and to-do lists, and that helps me organize my time better than just with a digital list (though my digital calendar is absolutely essential, too!).
I've also found that rituals are helpful-- When studying, working, or getting into deep focus, I have my playlists that I've found to help me stay in the zone (non-vocal across genres: Trip-hop, electronic, some jazz, some classical), I treat myself to tea to have while I'm working, and I make sure to set mental checkpoints to give myself breaks. Sometimes I will use an actual timer to make sure I have a set break that I can use if I need to, but often it will be an acheivement based break (i.e. after I finish this section, I will take a walk). This is a great article on Focus and Concentration: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/pay-attention-to-concentration
Remember that it is a marathon, and not a sprint-- build healthy habits (which includes socialization and rest!), eat well, and learn ways to manage your stress (I do love using Headspace to practice meditation duirng stressful times, and at night to help sleep better), and take it one day or class at a time. You've got this!
What has worked for you in High School and during your admissions process? Remember that what works for one person might not work for another, so think about your own experience. Is there anything that you found yourself doing that you "know" could be done better?
For me, I have always been a physical planner person; I need to write down due dates, and to-do lists, and that helps me organize my time better than just with a digital list (though my digital calendar is absolutely essential, too!).
I've also found that rituals are helpful-- When studying, working, or getting into deep focus, I have my playlists that I've found to help me stay in the zone (non-vocal across genres: Trip-hop, electronic, some jazz, some classical), I treat myself to tea to have while I'm working, and I make sure to set mental checkpoints to give myself breaks. Sometimes I will use an actual timer to make sure I have a set break that I can use if I need to, but often it will be an acheivement based break (i.e. after I finish this section, I will take a walk). This is a great article on Focus and Concentration: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/pay-attention-to-concentration
Remember that it is a marathon, and not a sprint-- build healthy habits (which includes socialization and rest!), eat well, and learn ways to manage your stress (I do love using Headspace to practice meditation duirng stressful times, and at night to help sleep better), and take it one day or class at a time. You've got this!
Davielle Panzullo, M.A., PMP
Business Transformation Sr. Manager
50
Answers
Irvine, California
Updated
Davielle’s Answer
It sounds like you are going into a very competitive program, so it is good you are thinking ahead.
Find a way to gamify your task list - treats at end of list of things, points and rewards. Really helps to get things done right the first time.
Use an app to manage your tasts, maybe one with a push function with reminders.
Have fun in school! Have your eye on the prize - set measurable goals. Have rewards.
Surround yourself with people who are motivated and have drive so you don't develop bad habits.
Minimize distractions.
Use tools - apps, calendars, don't rely on your memory.
Stay balanced, take care of your mental health, exercise.
Find a way to gamify your task list - treats at end of list of things, points and rewards. Really helps to get things done right the first time.
Use an app to manage your tasts, maybe one with a push function with reminders.
Have fun in school! Have your eye on the prize - set measurable goals. Have rewards.
Surround yourself with people who are motivated and have drive so you don't develop bad habits.
Minimize distractions.
Use tools - apps, calendars, don't rely on your memory.
Stay balanced, take care of your mental health, exercise.
Audrey Scribner
Solution Technologist
3
Answers
Tiburon, California
Updated
Audrey’s Answer
Lauren, Congratulations on your college acceptances. You have come so far already, and it's likely you have routines that will serve you well in college. College may present new challenges for keeping up with assignments and staying motivated, consider using the methods you have now (examples: planners, desk setup, daily routines) and keep an open mind to new approaches. Something that has always helped me with motivation was writing down my "why" and taping it to the bathroom mirror. Second, consider which experiences in college are important to you. For example, you wont spend 100% of your time on assignments, so how can your routines and habits help you create the best focused environment for staying on top of assignments and other priorities (ie. making new friends, joining a club etc).