By Hannah Botjer —
Being a freshman in your first semester can be difficult for many students. College is a different world and some students seem to have trouble juggling schoolwork and social life. Whereas for others, it’s a walk in the park and for them managing a college schedule is slightly easier. However, many students aren’t used to a typical college schedule.
Juggling schoolwork and a social life can be very difficult. During the first semester students have to learn to say no to peer pressure, to resist temptations, and to learn to manage their time effectively to get their schoolwork done. It’s when students learn that it’s better to hit the books than to hit the parties. Here are a few suggestions:
First, study in the library not your dorm. “It helps drive you to stay on top of things. Schedule one day of straight studying or catch up work and find hobbies, not just straight partying and have a day of just you so you don’t burn out,” said Brianna Gipe, 18, Math major from Shippensberg, PA .There are fewer interruptions in the library than in the dorm. It’s quieter and your friends, or other students, aren’t likely to disrupt you. In addition to that, the library also has more resources than can assist you in your studying. Teachers often give their textbooks to the libraries so students can access them more easily. The library’s resources are beneficial for students who are struggling in their studies.
Another great idea is to join various clubs and organizations. A social life doesn’t always mean sex, drugs and rock and roll. These organizations offer students a great opportunity to bond with students and staffers that share the same interests. NJCU offers a wide variety of clubs, organizations, fraternities, and sororities. In addition, have many social events that students can get involved in. Many of these groups can also help with school studies.
You can also get outside help.
“If you’re really struggling to keep your focus on your academic commitments, you might want to talk to either your faculty advisor or a member of the college counseling staff,” suggests College Confidential.
Sometimes bringing your homework or a past failed test to the tutoring and writing centers could help you understand what you did wrong and make a world of difference in your class.
Lastly, try to take classes you know you’ll be interested in, besides the ones for your major. By taking classes you know you will enjoy, it will make the class fun and easier. Also try to organize the class times around your life. If you are not a morning person it wouldn’t be a good idea to schedule classes during the early morning. Try scheduling your classes in the afternoon or at night.
“Try to take classes you can enjoy but balance those out with the ones you may not really like,” said Zayvier Maitin, 18, film major from Union. You should also take classes at a specific time of the day (either morning or evening), so that you have the rest of the day to do as you please. Make sure to create a cycle and do your work/ study around the same time each day…consistently,” suggested Maitin.
All students want to make the most out of their college years and not spend money and time frivolously on something that’s not going to work. It is possible to manage and balance an academic and social life. With the right amount of determination and using what is available to you, it is possible to have your grades thrive.