You have more time than you think.
School is often just a fraction of what students have to juggle in daily life.
While concentrating on classes and schoolwork is a high priority, many students also have a job, participate in clubs or other school activities, while still try to make time for friends and family.
As the semester gets into full swing, most students have a hard time prioritizing and organizing their schedules to make the most of their time.
Ellen Perricone, a 54-year-old licensed social worker with a psychotherapy practice in Denver suggests that students look at their obligations objectively.
“Step back, take a deep breath and attempt to get some perspective on what’s really going on,” Perricone said.
Here are some tips on prioritizing that can save some time in the future.
Determine priorities
Perricone recommends that students ask themselves a few questions. What is important to you as a person? How do all of the things you identify yourself by fit into your life? How will managing your short term responsibilities reflect on your long term goals?
Maggie Tillquist, 21, a senior integrative physiology major, says she knows about figuring out what is most important this semester. Tillquist splits her time between upper-division classes and working at a health and rehabilitation center. She also serves as an officer in Psi Chi National Honor Society and is studying for her MCAT in April.
“Right now with the MCAT’s coming up, class takes a back burner,” Tillquist said.
Perricone also said it’s important for students to be self-aware. Even though many people are demanding attention, it’s best to determine who is most important. It is also vital to keep in mind what should be accomplished before college ends and what goals should be placed for when the college years are over.
Organize obligations
Once priorities have been determined, Perricone suggests making a list of how much time each obligation demands. This should give an idea of how much free time each day allows.
If there is not enough time to finish planed activities, it may be time to cut back. Conversely, when rich in spare time, it may be a good idea to join a club or take up a sport or hobby.
David Humphreys, a 20-year-old junior philosophy major, works 25-30 hours a week at Walnut Brewery and takes a 17 credit hour course load. Humphreys says he knows that school comes first, but he admits he also makes time to paint and play guitar.
“You have to be willing to sacrifice,” Humphreys said. “But the time off I get, I do more with.”
Keep a balanced perspective
While the college years may seem chaotic, Perricone says students should keep certain things in mind.
“Remember that you are more than a student. You are the totality of many aspects. Attempt to look at the big picture as well as the immediate view of your life,” Perricone said.
You can contact Campus Press Staff Writer Morgan Keys at morgan.keys@colorado.edu
