by Aimee Engle

Created on: July 26, 2010

Beginning college is an exciting step toward a brighter future. Most teenagers expect it to be an exciting and fun adventure in their life, but worry about how to keep up with all those homework assignments. There are simple ways to keep up with studying and homework, but it takes dedication. It’s not really hard to keep up your grades, but you have to dedicate yourself to school and worry less about working full-time and partying.

First, while college can be fun and exciting, you should skip the late night partying. I know, I know, it’s supposed to be fun, but there are several other ways to have fun, such as joining clubs and organizations. Many of the activities of the clubs and organizations take place in the afternoons, and at times set aside by the university or college just for activities. It’s a great way to meet other students, have fun, and create study groups. 

Second, take time to study every night. I know it seems like a lot on top of all the homework, essays, and work, but just taking 30 minutes a day helps the information soak in. 

Third, do not procrastinate. It is so easy to take a little time each day on an assignment rather than doing it all in one evening. Leaving assignments until the last minute does nothing but cause you to stress out and stay up late. Exhaustion doesn’t typically produce your best results and the added on stress just makes you want to give up. If you skip the procrastination, you also have an opportunity to ask any questions you may have on the assignment, make a tutoring appointment if necessary, and take your time on the assignment to produce your best work. 

Fourth, study groups are an important part of college. If you can skip the chatter and get to work, your study group may be the best resource you have in college. Make sure you all exchange emails and phone numbers for late night and last minute questions regarding the subject.  

Fifth, stay organized! Keep a strict agenda of all due dates, assignments, quizzes, exams, and other important dates. If you check it regularly, it can be your best resource to stay prepared for upcoming assignments. Set goals in your agenda. Decide when you want to be half way done with an assignment and write it in! Also, keep your papers organized. A book full of random powerpoint slides and assignments is not the key to success. Organize your assignments, powerpoints, and notes in a way that suits you. If you can easily find what you need, it will be much easier to study for exams and quizzes and will cause less stress when you don’t have to be a detective to find your assignment.

Sixth, keep up with your emails. Professors, students, and many other organizations and help groups use email to contact you about upcoming assignments and events. It is your only helpful reminder in most cases. Check email regularly for any changes in assignments, exam help, or class cancellations.

And finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Tutors, professors, and your classmates are your best resources for information. Only you can help yourself, others won’t go out of their way to do it for you. Make advising appointments early and ask questions! They are your greatest resource for making decisions about what classes to take to graduate. 

Following these easy guideline will set you up for success. Stay organized, don’t let yourself fall behind, and good luck!

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