Transitioning into Sophomore year after Freshman year with Covid-19 has been harder than expected. Last year I barely had any in-person classes and spent the majority of the day in my dorm room. This year I have in-person classes from 10 am to 4 pm so I spend much less time in my room. Although I am so thankful to be able to go to in-person classes and have a true college experience, it has been a little bit difficult to get a good routine down!
Going into week six of classes, I have developed some helpful techniques and strategies to better manage schoolwork, clubs, and still allow time for myself. It is important to discover when and where you work best. I have learned that I am much more focused in the morning. Because of this, I do not push the limits with homework at night. Instead, I go to bed at a reasonable time and wake up around 7:30-8:00 am to start work. At first, I thought this seemed so early, but thinking back on high school I remembered that I used to wake up at 6:30 am. Also, I love to do work outside my dorm room. It can be super distracting to have your bed immediately behind you. I love working in Olin Library, Law Library, and Simon Library. I have realized that it is best for me to do work early and out of my dorm!
I also recommend taking a lunch break with friends on campus. It is such a quick and easy way to break up the day and take your mind off of school. Another important routine in my life is keeping an organized planner to plan out my days and homework. It can be super overwhelming to adjust back to school, especially coming off a year of Covid-19. Everyone is in it together and making a schedule that works for you is key!