Colleges and universities around the nation have shuttered their doors amidst the Coronavirus pandemic. Many in-person services that were once available for students are shut down.
Smart students are learning how to adapt to these changes and thrive academically.
This article will teach you how to make the most out of your study from home experience.
1. Set A Schedule
Now that your classes are remote and you don’t have in-person activities, it’s important you set your own schedule. It can be easy to dawdle your days away watching Netflix and then cram for your virtual exams at the last minute.
To combat this, plan out your days even when you’re not leaving your house.
Carve out time in advance to review your notes, study, and write essays. Having a routine will make you feel more normal and like you are in control of your life.
You can schedule time for fun things too. Be sure to give yourself time off to do the things you enjoy and reset from studying.
2. Take Advantage of Technology
You are fortunate enough to go to school at a time when almost all teaching can be done remotely.
Be sure to take advantage of everything technology has to offer. This includes scheduling Zoom calls to talk to your professors or arrange study groups.
Learning remotely doesn’t have to mean learning by yourself. Your professors and classmates can still be valuable resources to you when you need them.
Ask your professor to schedule a Zoom meeting if you don’t understand a subject.
3. Supplement Your Learning
Taking classes online gives you more time to supplement your learning with other courses.
LinkedIn learning, for instance, allows you to take classes in almost any subject. Many universities have a relationship with LinkedIn Learning that lets its students take the courses for free.
Search for courses in your field to add depth and variety to your online learning. You can also earn online certifications during this time.
4. Tune In To Virtual Events
Check out what kind of events your university is putting on virtually and be sure to tune in.
Your school is probably still offering opportunities to learn and socialize remotely. These events can help with your networking and help you lock down a lucrative career in the future.
Don’t think that just because these events are online that they’re not worth your time. Expanding your social network in college is very important for success later on.
In addition to events, get active on social media pages. Universities will have social pages for different clubs. Join the ones you are interested in and start getting to know people with similar interests before you get back to campus.
5. Tweak Your Resume
Use your free time to improve your resume and cover letter.
Your resume should be a good representation of who you are and what you’ve accomplished. See if your university offers free access to Adobe programs. If so, you can design your resume using Adobe Indesign.
Canva is another free program that allows you to design a killer resume.
Don’t forget to add in the new skills you are learning as a remote student, and the certifications you’re earning in your free time.
6. Stay Healthy
You will never excel in academics if you’re not feeling your best physically and mentally. Prioritize your health during this difficult time by creating a diet and exercise plan.
There are plenty of free at-home workouts you can do while gyms are closed. Try to schedule in 30 minutes of activity every day, even if that means just getting outside and taking a walk around your neighborhood. Staying physically active will help you focus on school and improve your mental clarity.
For your mental health, check to see if your university is offering remote counseling sessions. Ask what resources are available for students as far as mental health services.
COVID-19 can make you feel powerless and anxious, so it’s important you set aside time to work on your mental health. Meditation can help with this as well.
In addition to physical exercise and mental wellness, getting adequate sleep is crucial to staying on top of your schoolwork. Don’t think that just because we’re in a pandemic that means you can stay up all night and get very little sleep.
Aim for getting at least 7-9 hours of sleep every night.
7. Save Money
Since you’re stuck inside anyway, now is the perfect time to start saving money. Don’t become an online shopper who is addicted to Amazon.
Practice smart budgeting now so the habits stay with you long after college. If you’re earning money, be sure to set a percentage aside each month for savings.
Learn to cook at home so that you’re not wasting money on take out meals. There are plenty of online recipes for cheap, easy to make meals. There’s no better time to learn to cook than now.
Also, look for cheaper options for your college supplies. Textbooks don’t have to break the bank. Always check for cheap alternatives online for your general education courses.
Now You Know How Smart Students Are Reacting to COVID-19
These are scary, unprecedented times.
You’re likely worried about your grades and your future at your college or university.
Remember there are ways to take control of your time and form your own schedule during this pandemic. Smart students will be using technology wisely, getting plenty of rest, and saving money.
Want to start saving money today? Check out our cheap textbook options so you can keep more in the bank.