The Campitor’s Advice Column is back! Whether you’re looking for homework tips or time management strategies, this is the place to be. Ashley Grubstein (’22) answers common questions below:
How can you balance extra-curriculars with homework and social life?
In my opinion, one of the best ways to balance extra-curriculars with homework and a social life is to work in advance and to always be reasonable with your scheduling. If you have an extra hour one day, instead of spending time playing a video game or watching a TV show, spend the time studying or working on homework due in a few days. It may seem really boring, but in the long term it will help you not feel overworked and too stressed. Also, don’t go straight from a sport to a friend’s house to dinner if it means you arrive home at 11:00 pm. Realize that you are going to have homework and that getting enough sleep is important. Maybe cut time at that friend’s house short and get in an hour of good work; your friend will understand!
What is the best way to time out a weekend filled with studying and social activities?Honestly, the best way to balance a weekend filled with social events and studying/homework is to plan your weekend. Find out what times you will be able to study and write them in a calendar and make sure that all of your allotted time is enough to get quality work done. Try not to go in 5 minutes spurts all throughout the weekend; sit down for 30 minutes to an hour and finish one subject instead.
What is a good way to study in order to retain information better?
I can’t tell you what the best way for you to study is but I CAN give you some ways that have been particularly helpful to my friends and me. I learn by reading through the information and rewriting it on a separate piece of paper. Depending on the amount of material, sometimes I do this multiple times until I have a good understanding of it (verbal). Some people learn by recording themselves, reading the information, and then playing it back until they have a grasp of it (aural). Some people take the time to make pictures that represent their information and learn it that way (visual). It does help some people to work in study groups or with others while some people prefer working alone and in the quiet.
What should I do if I don’t have a club but all my friends do?
One great thing to do in club time when your friends are all busy is to catch up on work or to meet with teachers. This can provide great, quiet study hall time where you can be outside or inside depending on your preference. If you are struggling to understand a topic, you can also use this time to meet with the teacher (if they don’t have a club) and ask questions or get some one-on-one help. Another use of this time could be to sit outside, enjoy the fresh air, and just take some quiet/alone time on a busy day. This can really help you relax and be much more productive.
What is the best way to spend community time?
There are so many amazing ways to spend community time, but here a few of the most common ones. A lot of people take this time to meet up with friends and hang out, either inside or on the quad somewhere. Other people enjoy playing football and0 other athletic activities on the quad during this time. You could always see a teacher as they are most likely free, or catch up on work. I can’t know what would help you the most, but personally, I take this time as quiet/alone time to relax because school is hectic and just being able to relax can really help you finish the day/week strong!
Have questions you’d love to see answered? Ask them through this form and we’ll answer them in our next issue!