I think everyone can agree that studying is hard, regardless of your year or major. Sure, we all joke about the colouring homework for business students, but studying for a midterm or final is seriously next level.
I would plan my study sessions down to the smallest detail, determined to stay in the library until closing time or until I finished my work, whichever came first. Unfortunately, I rarely stuck to that plan. I would show up unprepared, forget items, and start studying hard instead of easing into it. Within an hour or two, I’d feel restless, and a planned 12-hour study day would turn into an unnecessary rest day.
The University of Windsor library and campus house amazing study spots. As much as I love the library, sometimes it just doesn’t cut it. It took me my entire undergraduate career to figure out the secret ingredients for a successful study day on campus. If you don’t want to waste yours figuring it out, here are five pointers for enhancing your study experience.Â
Be Prepared
If you plan to spend the entire day somewhere, prepare for the long haul! Pack food and water, or grab some snacks throughout the day. Remember to charge your electronic ecosystem, too: laptops, headphones, etc. Book your study spot ahead of time, or you’ll end up frantically searching for one at the last minute. Finally, consider both indoor and outdoor temperatures! If you’re always cold, bring a sweater!
Move Frequently
If spending the day in one spot isn’t your cup of tea, don’t be afraid to move! Plan out a route or follow your heart—both are good! Moving doesn’t need to be excessive either. Change seats, floors, or buildings if you want. You can even do lunch at the CAW or head to a coffee shop for a quick pick-me-up.
Prep Your Playlists
If you like to listen to music while you study, why spend your study session deciding what music to play? Spotify, YouTube, Apple Music, and most other music platforms allow you to create your own playlists. That way, you’re ready to go when you say you are.
Break the Day Up
You don’t have to study only one subject when you say you’re going to study. For some, alternating between different subjects and goals throughout the day can help the time pass more quickly. Also, who labelled studying a solo activity? You can always invite friends to join your study sesh, even if it’s only for an hour or two.
The Longer You Study, the More You Should Reward Yourself
Your brain is an organ that needs feeding both figuratively and literally! To avoid burnout, remember to take proper breaks. It’s better to take the time (and food) that you need to get back to the grind than to quit because you aren’t taking care of your mind.
