Keeping up with Deadlines while in College
Where is the Time?
When you first start getting used to your assignments in college and the deadlines they all have, it can be a little daunting. I mean sure, when you were in high school, you had due dates for assignments all of the time and you were able to comply with them usually with no problem. The difference in high school and college project due dates though is that most professors in college don’t communicate their assignments to one another as would high school teachers to ensure not having double projects being assigned to their students at the same time.
Staying the Course
The reason college professors don’t do this is that we, as students are all taking different classes at different times, and trying to do that would take up way too much time just trying to accommodate each student. It is simply just not possible. Getting used to being responsible for multiple assignments at once can be a challenge for the newly-minted college student and can often create a magnitude of stress for the student(s) experiencing this.
Coming up with a Gameplan
This is why it is so important to map out your assignments in each class by the dates on which all the assignments are due. If you have to work a little harder to get through with coursework in one class just to be able to provide enough time for the other class, then you will have to do so, and so on. Prioritizing coursework is the key to staying ahead and being able to capitalize on all of the assignments being asked of you to complete. It may be a little stressful at times, but with proper time management and a structured discipline, this can all be achieved with no problem.
Finding the Balance
The goal is for you to be able to make the time for what matters most to you and if passing this course in order to get your degree is worth it enough for you, then you will do whatever it takes to make it happen. Just remember to give yourself some downtime as well. Recharging your batteries is also an important factor in completing all of your assignments, as this allows you to come back to your assignments with a clearer head. This will also provide you with more creative brainstorming tools to complete the tasks being asked of you at hand.
Tips on Staying Ahead of the Game in College
Prioritize, Prioritize, Prioritize!
So whenever you are starting college and the syllabus/calendar breakdowns of each course become available to you, I challenge you to look at this as an opportunity to become a master strategist. Look at each breakdown of assignments in each class and figure out a plan of action in order to successfully complete them all with ease. Prioritize the ones that are upcoming and figure out a methodology that will suit you and your schedule. Some of us work or have other obligations, so making time for school will require you to set out specific hours in the day that you can complete these assignments. Whatever is going on in your life, just make sure you provide yourself with a balance of school, work, family, and you-time. This will keep you grounded/centered and will also make you able to stay focused on all the important things that matter to you.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Clinton Brantley
Student Author - Fall 2020
