The Ohio State University offers many resources to students, most of which are offered free of charge. They cover a wide range of topics from academics to nutrition to financial and general wellness. I’ve heard about the many resources in my survey courses from peers and even from web searches. The university provides so much it can feel overwhelming to determine where to start.
At my appointment we talked about how a good way to fight feeling overwhelmed is to get organized- especially with your time. We covered a few topics but really went into depth with time management. Time management is something that I personally struggle with. That alongside a propensity to procrastinate is a very dangerous combination. We talked about three time management tools that can work together in tandem.
- The first is a fixed commitment calendar- it lists all the things that which you have already committed. It would contain classes, meetings, time-specific activities etc. This is a weekly calendar that you would use to highlight your free time.
- The second is the running list- it is a broad monthly-yearly plan that contains assignments, projects, and is used to efficiently plan ahead.
- Lastly, there is the daily objective list- effectively it is a to-do list. It is specific and can be used to plan breaks and assignments to be done that day.
A visual break down of the three time management tools (from left to right: Fixed Commitment Calendar, Running List, and Daily Objectives)
Other skills we worked on were focus and procrastination oriented. The technique that I have seen a lot of success with is the pomodoro technique. Italian for “tomato”, the technique focuses on taking regimented breaks after a certain time of diligent work. Each unit is 25 minutes of work and a 5 minute break. The technique has its name from mechanical wind up timers that looked much like tomatoes. In knowing that a break is coming up soon, I have found that it is easier to focus. In the past I would build my breaks around finishing assignments. Such assignments always lasted longer than I thought and I would feel mentally burned out. The technique does require a fair amount of self control which can be difficult. But, after 3-4 pomodoros one can take a longer, more relaxing break.
These skills apply not just for school but for life. Being able to organize your time properly can be the difference in success. I am currently working (slowly, but surely) to add these skills into my daily life. I have learned far more than I had hoped with going to the Younkin Success Center for my appointment. The appointment was super easy to schedule- it can be done online through their website.
The university has so many support services that I don’t believe that it is missing any. I have yet to fully immerse my in its services so I cannot say for sure. I am extremely glad that I scheduled and attended my appointment. What I have learned there is already improving my focus and time management.