Time Management for College Students

Brought to you by the Eastern Kentucky University Student Success Center

Transition from High School to College

• High School: Structured by bells, know where to go next
• College: Independence; no bells, no schedule for basic needs (eating, laundry, studying)
• Sudden expectation to be responsible adults

Importance of Habits

• Habits dictate time management
• Example: Checking phone mindlessly
• Creating good habits is crucial
• Start by intentionally making good decisions

Managing Your Own Time

• Two categories:
  1. Time you can control
  2. Time you cannot control

1. Time You Cannot Control:
   • Class schedules
   • Work schedules
2. Time You Can Control:
   • Eating
   • Studying
   • Socializing
   • Sleeping

Using a Planner

• Importance: Helps set priorities and visualize schedule
• Detailed Scheduler:
  • Include all elements of your day
  • Steps:
    1. Non-Controlled Time: Add class times, work schedules, other scheduled events
    2. Controlled Time: Add healthy sleep schedule, meal times, study plans, social time, self-care

Study Plan

• Effective Study Tips: Brain more effective early in the day
• Watch: Student Success Center video on effective study plans
• Schedule self-care to allow brain relaxation

Time-Saving Hacks

1. Efficient Study Time:
   • Have study space ready
   • Study in a conducive environment
   • Never study in bed
2. Double Duty Tasks:
   • Review flashcards during laundry
   • Chat/review during walks
3. Limit Distractions:
   • Use apps to block distractions
4. Positive Approach:
   • Reward yourself for sticking to your schedule
   • Self-accountability

Assess and Adapt

• Assessment: Regularly check if schedule needs adjustment
• Adaptation: Allocate more or less time as needed
• Habit Building: Consistency leads to natural time management