Ally Romanes

It’s always hard to get back into school mode after a much-needed break. If you’re anything like me you might still be struggling with a little holiday-lag. Good news for you, it’s only the second week of the quarter and there’s still plenty of time to set some personal goals, form some positive habits, and make this your best year yet. 

Here are a few simple good habits that will help you achieve your academic goals.

Actually Go To Class (lol)

It might sound silly to say but, go to class and pay attention. Skipping class is a habit you really need to break! Not only will this cause you to fall behind, but you’re paying good money to learn! 

Side note, sometimes skipping class is inevitable. An emergency or sickness, things come up. If you’re going to miss class let your professor know and make sure you get lecture notes from a classmate.  

Take Notes 

Always take notes so you remember what happened in class. Taking notes is very helpful and useful throughout the quarter and will help you study for quizzes and tests. Studies show taking notes can also help ingrain the information into your brain! If you aren’t a regular note-taker, try it out. You would be surprised at how easy it is to take even a few points down and how organized it will make you feel. 

Do The Reading 

Assigned reading might seem boring, but it is something you just have to do. Not only is it required but beneficial to your learning. It allows you to be prepared for the next class so you’re not trying to play catch-up while you’re professor is lecturing.

Find A Good Study Spot

Get into the zone. Finding the right environment to study is so important. PUC is great because there are so many options. If you want a quiet library, or a busy campus center or something in between, figure out what works best for you.  

Track Your Goals

Think about the goals you want to achieve this quarter and write them down to keep yourself accountable. Having a written list of your goals will help you remember and keep track of what you want to get accomplished. Once you complete a goal, you can check it off and feel proud of yourself! 

Try to be as realistic as possible with your goals so that you don’t overwhelm yourself.

Get Enough Sleep 

You can’t work properly if you’re a zombie. If you didn’t get enough sleep last quarter, make it a goal to get more sleep. Make sure you get enough hours of sleep so you can feel refreshed to tackle a new day. 

Don’t Procrastinate

A lot of people struggle with procrastination, but it is possible to not procrastinate. Keep yourself accountable for all the things you have to do. Write them down if you need to. Keep track of your upcoming homework assignments, quizzes, and tests. The more aware and prepared you are the less procrastination will affect you, allowing you more time for other more enjoyable things. Don’t let procrastination hold you back from getting things done!