A re you finding it difficult to concentrate while you study? Are you getting worried because midterm exams seem to last all semester? Many students blame their inability to concentrate on outside distractions and a work overload. Haven't you ever wondered how the most accomplished students achieve their level of success? I ventured out and asked some of our finest here at the University what they feel their most important learning habits are and how they are able to "zone in" while studying.
Second-year College student Leah Wigger, an accomplished student-athlete, has a GPA of 3.7. Ironically, she spends most of her time either practicing on the golf course, competing in tournaments (she has competed in every tournament since joining the team in her first year) or lifting weights at the McCue center. Her secret to success is the ability to concentrate well during the few hours of her day that are available for studying.
She said studying with less distraction helps, and breaking up your study time into smaller sessions fosters greater concentration. Another important thing that helps her to concentrate better while studying is studying on a full stomach, because then your focus is purely on what you are learning and not on what you want to have for lunch or dinner.
Another great multi-tasker is fourth-year College student Annie Bobiak, a member of the women's track and field team. Not only does she participate in an inter-collegiate sport, she is a member of the University Guide Service, a Student-Athlete Mentor and partakes in over half a dozen other activities around Grounds. What helps Bobiak concentrate? Coffee from Greenberry's, albeit only if it is early in the evening, she said.
She has to be careful about not drinking coffee too late at night, because it will inhibit practice the following day, she said.
She also said she thinks that it is important to utilize your laptop so that you have everything you need in one machine. She said this is a great time and space saver because you can go from class to practice and then straight to the library without stopping.
Several student-athletes and professors contributed to a short, yet potent list of tips that might help students become more productive:
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