by Claire Daiynes V. Pama
Layout by Raphael Francisco
Climbing a steep mountain of workload with the weight of global distress is a treacherous path to trudge on and yet, the mighty tiger must persevere to reach the summit of academic excellence.
Studying while being held in a forced lone-ranger mode by the virus is an entirely different territory. Not a day goes by when you are not worrying about what tomorrow will bring in this unexplored terrain of uneasiness as you struggle with emotional and mental stress. So, get ready to dig your claws into these tips on surviving the uncharted regions of the online realm.
1. Establish your dominion.
The key to an effective studying session is to secure a good location. Gone are the days when Thomasians gathered at the nearest study hubs. Now that we are housebound until further notice, establishing a workspace—preferably away from your bed—would help stimulate a study mindset. Move your workspace to face the wall or, if possible, stay in a room that is more suitable for your work ethic. With this, your brain will be trained to flip the switch between work and play.
2. Devise an attack plan, and be ready to pounce.
With our clocks set up to be both synchronous and asynchronous, it is safe to say the extra leisure time might push you back into the arms of your dear ol’ friend: procrastination. Creating a carefully-planned day-to-day time block will help you avoid pushing your work for later. Start your day with a cup of coffee and a to-do list that will ensure that you will maximize your day well, achieve all your desired goals, and maybe even get the chance to play or watch your favorite show. Time wasted can never be brought back. Knowing that you should have stuck with your schedule at the last minute is a troublesome thought, so make every second count!
3. Retain an organized enclave.
Arranging your books, modules, pens, and even softcopies can go a long way. It lessens the probability of frantically scrolling for important learning materials in the sea of messages in your class’ group chat. You could try to keep everything in one convenient place, may it be a bookshelf or the set of drawers at your desk. If you’re more comfortable with cloud-based platforms that are available for free using your UST account, take note that Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, and Notion’s database and task tracker are some of the finest productivity apps that can help you stay on top of all the assignments thrown at you. Always remember that an organized desk reflects an organized mind.
4. Reunite with the pack.
Keeping your distance is only meant for physical circumstances. Don't forget that your friends are just one click away to engage in regular study groups! Repeating what you have learned to your study buddies can help you retain lessons, gain more information, and hit those green marks easier. Keep in mind that sticking close with your flock can also relieve stress, motivate you, and help you and your besties achieve that desired uno!
5. Laze the day away in the den sometimes.
Hours of uninterrupted work can wear anyone down as even the toughest tigers also need to catch some zzz’s. So, try to schedule frequent breaks, but not too frequently to the point of purposely delaying work. You could try getting up and stretching to get the blood flowing after sitting too long. Sleep for six to eight hours to refresh your brain—because a sleepy head won't help you retain information and lack of sleep will only weaken your immune system (which is far from ideal during a pandemic). Always find time to relax during the day. Watch a show, listen to music, or do anything that can help you relieve the tension in your body. In the surge of ceaseless tasks, resting is a vital step towards your progression.
With online classes in place, always remember that discipline and hard work can go a long way. When your anxiety, stress, or just the general feeling of uncertainty becomes overwhelming, don’t forget to acknowledge these feelings.
The semester has now begun. Take a deep breath and follow these quarantips to conquer this academic year to the very end!
Sources:
Study Tips for High School & College Students During Coronavirus Self-Quarantine. (2020, April 02). Retrieved September 03, 2020, from https://www.erincondren.com/blog/study-tips-for-highschool-and-college-students/
Sumner, A. (2020, March 23). 5 tips for studying during quarantine. Retrieved September 03, 2020, from http://www.nationaljurist.com/national-jurist-magazine/5-tips-studying-during-quarantine
Business Vector Elements. Retrieved November 03, 2020, from https://www.vecteezy.com/vector-art/117454-free-flat-business-office-vector-elements
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