Maximizing Your Social and Study Time in College

When you're in college, you have more times on your hands than you ever did before. Students taking 12 to 15 credits in their first semester will only be attending four or five classes, most of them on the introductory level. Students who are not playing sports, working or engaging in other extra-curricular activities will have many "free" hours during the week. Students can keep their studying and socializing on track with these tips

Schedule daily and weekly activities- Classes will meet once, twice or three times a week and it can be easy to put off the work until the night before. When scheduling activities, look at each week's workload and due dates and plan accordingly. Use the calendar on your computer or phone (or sync them) or use a paper organizer. Schedule these, in order:

* Classes, labs
* Meals
* Work (if applicable)
* Sports practice and games or exercise
* Study time
* Open time

Set measurable goals - Be specific about what you need to do and how much time you have to do it.

* Include the number of pages you need to read in a book.
* Assign yourself a specific number of math or chemistry problems per session.

Find your ideal study space - The best studying intentions can be derailed by a social roommate, or fun-seeking neighbors in the dorms. As tempting as it is to head back to the dorms after class, students should get in the habit of heading to the library instead. Others find the low hum of conversation in a coffee shop or lounge more conducive to studying.

Make a standing dining date - Try to eat meals in the same dining hall, around the same time as your friends. You all have to eat, and meal time can help busy students squeeze in much-needed social time between classes.

Find good study partners - Make friends with fellow students who you are both studious and social. You don't have to share the same classes, only a desire to study in the company of others. Meet at the on-campus coffee shop, where you can both study and take breaks together.

Minimize time-suckers - Identify the activities that are taking the most time away from studying and socializing.

* Schedule study time first and reward yourself with your favorite shows.
* Fellow students can also use up your time. Don't try to study around people who just want to talk. Socialize with people you truly like and enjoy.
* Make yourself a not-do-list of things that distract you or waste your time.