Seasonal Study Strategies

BALANCING SCHOOLWORK WITH HOLIDAY FUN CAN BE CHALLENGING, BUT WITH THE RIGHT STRATEGIES, YOU CAN ENJOY THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS.

As we enter November and December, many of us look forward to the holiday season with excitement. It’s a time for family gatherings, decorations, relaxation, and, of course, gifts.

But while the holidays can bring joy, they can also be distracting. Between planning for celebrations, spending time with loved ones, and preparing for the new year, it’s easy to fall behind on schoolwork.

As a college student, I’ve found that staying on top of assignments during the holidays can be challenging. How can we manage our time effectively to balance school, work, family, and self-care without sacrificing our holiday joy?

The key to this balance lies in time management and finding the right study tactics that fit your lifestyle. With a few small adjustments, you can enjoy the holidays while still staying on track with school.

Here are a few strategies to help you manage it all:

Create a Consistent Study Routine

One of the simplest ways to stay ahead of schoolwork is by setting aside dedicated study hours before the holidays take over. Consider committing to study every day, for example, from 8 a.m. to noon, to get ahead on assignments or review for exams. Of course, this time frame might not work for everyone, but the goal is to find a time that fits your schedule. Whether it’s in the morning, after work, or even late at night, having a set study block each day can help keep your work organized and manageable.

The important thing is consistency. When you dedicate a few hours each day to studying, you’ll create a rhythm that allows you to complete assignments and sharpen your studies. Once that study time is over, you can enjoy the rest of your day with less stress hanging over you.

Use Techniques to Avoid Burnout

Studying for long stretches without breaks can lead to fatigue and frustration. Instead of cramming for hours, try using the Pomodoro Technique. This method involves studying in 25-minute intervals, followed by a 5-minute break. After completing four study sessions, take a longer break (15-30 minutes) to recharge. This technique keeps your mind fresh and helps prevent burnout, allowing you to study more efficiently without feeling overwhelmed.

Study in Groups for Motivation

Sometimes, the best way to stay motivated is by studying with others. Find a classmate or friend to study with, whether in-person or virtually. Group study sessions can help you stay focused, share resources, and provide support when things get tough. It’s easy to procrastinate when you’re studying alone, but having someone else to encourage you can make a huge difference in maintaining productivity.

Prioritize Your Assignments

With so much going on during the holiday season, it’s crucial to prioritize your assignments based on their due dates. Start by identifying what’s due first and tackle those tasks first. This helps you focus on what needs your immediate attention, while also giving you time to prepare for upcoming deadlines. Procrastination can be tempting, but by staying organized, you’ll avoid the stress of last-minute cramming.

Take Advantage of Campus Resources

MHCC offers a wealth of resources to help students succeed, especially when it feels like the pressure is mounting. One of the most valuable resources available is counseling services. MHCC counselors are trained to help students manage stress, anxiety, and any other concerns that may arise during the semester. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance.

The Library is another great resource. It provides both quiet study spaces and tutors. If you need help with math, writing, or any other subject, Mt. Hood’s Library has specialized tutors available for one-on-one support. You can also find private study rooms, which are perfect if you prefer to study in peace. If you’re feeling hungry, there’s a small cafeteria nearby with food and drink options to fuel your brain.

Additionally, the AVID Center in the Library is a great place for general academic support. Whether you need help with note-taking or organizing your study schedule, the AVID Center staff is there to guide you.

The Library isn’t the only place to study, however. If you’re looking for more options, you can head upstairs (to the top floor) to the TRIO Center, which is a fantastic spot for students who are part of the TRIO program (providing support for low-income or first-generation college students, those with disabilities, and those who are military veterans). It offers a quiet, dedicated space for studying and academic support.

If you have office hours with professors, consider arriving early to review your notes or prepare your questions. The Social Science Faculty area and Math Department also have tables available for students who need a place to study.

For a more secluded space, the women-focused Transitions/Transiciones Room (1002) near Parking Lot A (and the concrete “volcano fountain”) offers another quiet option to focus on your work.

No matter where you choose to study, don’t hesitate to ask fellow students or staff for directions if you’re unsure about where to go. The MHCC community is always happy to help you find the right space.

Take Breaks and Practice Self-Care

Finally, don’t forget about self-care during this busy time. It’s essential to make time for yourself, whether it’s spending time with friends and family, playing games, or simply relaxing. Mt. Hood’s Student Union is a great place to unwind with free snacks and games like pool or ping-pong. Just be mindful not to let your breaks run too long – you don’t want to lose focus on your studies!

Balancing schoolwork with holiday fun can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can enjoy the best of both worlds. By managing your time, using effective study tactics, and utilizing the resources at MHCC, you’ll be able to finish the Fall Term strong and still have plenty of time to relax and celebrate the season.

Dina Ibrahim