The semester is only about halfway through but already I'm anxious for it to be over. I really feel like I need a vacation!! School's been a part-time job and really, with class time and homework and group meetings, a lot of hours are devoted to school each week. I procrastinate, too. I know, I know - it's not helping anything, but I convince myself that I get can.
In my procrastination, though, I've been productive with things that I probably shouldn't be productive with. For example, I have come up with a list of several lessons I've learned about being a part-time student. They may seem obvious, but I know that these are things I need to focus on more.
[One] Be sure to find out how much group work each class requires before enrolling. I have two classes that are heavy on it and that adds a lot of hours to my schedule. If possible, try to balance by having one that's heavy on group work and another that's not.
[Two] Really consider how the schedule arrangements for the class will affect you. Late classes really elongate a day, for example. On those days, I go to work in the morning, go from there to the library, from there to a tutoring session, and then to class. By the time I get home, it's near 10.30. That brings me to...
[Three] Take advantage of tutors! Ah, no! I mean, take advantage of their services! Having one is extremely helpful and also relieves a lot of stress. See if your class has one!
[Four] Also, think about when you'd do homework for the classes. I guess this goes with [Two] but remember it! Homework takes a lot of time! Something that I forgot from undergrad was how misleading syllabi can be. Just because nothing written is required for every class does not mean that the work or reading will be quick.
[Five] Remember your personal life! Part of finding balance is leaving time for yourself and doing things important to you outside of school or work.
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