08.23.2007 JAYPLAY
notice 03
BACK TO THE BOOKS
Tips on how to make the most of your study sessions by Nicole Korman
Organize
Kristine Scott, assistant director of the Academic Achievement and Access center, says that it is important to organize and balance your schedule. This way you can make a schedule early and set aside an appropriate number of hours to study each day. She says that once you are organized, you should review class material that you have learned each week so that the information stays fresh in your mind. It can be quick, but make sure that it is enough that you won't be cramming all the information you learned the night before a test.
Pick a Spot
Find a distraction-free study spot where you can focus. Scott says that you should pick a time of day when you are most alert to study, whether in the morning, evening or late night. You should also choose a spot without TV, music or friends to distract you from your studies. Gather up your pens and highlighters and force yourself to settle into your new no-Facebook-allowed zone.
Studying
Start studying for tests weeks before and don't procrastinate. The first exam can be an eye-opening experience. Scott says you should study in 50-minute blocks with a 10 minute break for about two hours. You should also break up your studying in equal parts to help with concentration. Study groups, busy scribes and flash
cards are all good tools to use during studying.
Diet and Exercise
Ann Chapman, coordinator of nutrition services at Wattkins Memorial Health Center, says that diet and exercise can affect your studying. Eating high-protein foods like cheese, peanuts and peanut butter can make you more alert. Also, overdoing caffeinated beverages can do more harm than good. She says that one cup of coffee or one can of soda is all you need to stay alert and focused. If you drink too much caffeine, it can cause headaches and irritability. Exercise is also good even if done in small amounts. She says that a 10-minute walk is enough to reduce stress and allow you to focus better on the task at hand.
Kelley Melton
Kelley Melon
Belleville senior
Study Spot: $^{14}$
floor of Anschutz
library because it is quiet
Brain Food:
crackers and chocolate
Tip: "Make to do lists and number the order in which you want to get them done. Then reward yourself with shopping when you are finished."
Reed Brower Overland Park senior Study Spot: Watson library because the
chairs are comfortable and the tables are a perfect height Brain Food: peppermint mints and Mountain Dew Tip: "Wait until the last minute to study" (as he chuckles)
Lizzie Greco
LIZIE OTGO
2007 graduate
Study Spot:
Perkins
Brain Food:
hash browns
and coffee
Tip: "Don't wait until the last minute."
Jenny Wilson
Alma sophomore
Study Spot: My room because I am an RA
Brain Food: popcorn
Tip: "Try different ways to study like notecards or recopy your notes. Also, start early."
Late-Night Study Spots
Perkins, Open 24 hours 1711 West 23 St.
Java Break, Open 24 hours
17 East 7 St.
Mirth, Open until 11 p.m.
745 New Hampshire
Henry's, Open until 11 p.m.
11 East 8 St.
Aimee's Coffee Shop, Open until 11 p.m.
1025 A Massachusetts
La Prima Tazza, Open Until 11 p.m.
638 Massachusetts St.
Signs of Life, Open Until 11 p.m.
722 Massachusetts St.