If you’re in a co-op program, you probably know what I mean just from reading the title. The transition from a co-op work term back to school term can be quite tough. It’s already been a month since my co-op term ended, yet I still can’t completely convince my brain that yes it needs to get back into studying mode, and focus on getting my readings done. It’s already been two weeks into winter term 2019 and 1) I’ve forgotten how to concentrate properly in my classes, 2) I need to re-learn to focus on actually completing my readings, because yes class discussions are based off them. basically I need to remind myself that I don’t have the same freedom I had on co-op after work that I do during the school term.
For some reason, the transition feels harder this time than it was after my first co-op. That might be due to the fact that I didn’t do most of my readings in second year, because I could get away with it, unlike third year where I actually have to read the material to understand what is going on in class. Conveniently as each school term passes, I become lazier and lazier…I mean we’re here just to get a degree then graduate and get a job right? Don’t develop this mindset, it won’t help you if you’re actually trying to get into grad school, or have a successful, engaging career.
If you’re reading this post because you’re also trying to get your mind back into school mode, I recommend going to the library for a few hours at a time every other day, to try and get your work done. If you happen to have classes with friends who have more self-control than you do, invite them to come along so the both of you can work on getting some studying done. One benefit about the library is that you can’t distracted as much as you would at home, which helps you focus better on finishing tasks. Also it’s usually quiet and you’re in the same room as other who are also studying, which can help you concentrate.
To those who read to the end, what tips do you have for people who have a hard time transitioning from co-op back to school term? What do you usually do to regain concentration?