Most students believe that they have the study routine down pat by the time they reach college. Those same students often find themselves overwhelmed when they discover that college requires a lot more work than high school with seemingly less time. Educational professionals like Moshe Ohayon of Louisville, KY, founder of the Louisville Tutoring Agency, recommend a different approach to get more out of study time, retain what you learn, improve your grades and do better on exams.
Note-taking during lectures is a significant part of the learning experience.. Taking notes is only the first step, however. Remembering the information is what learning is all about. Studies have shown that the retention rate is 60 percent higher when students review their notes within 24 hours of taking them.
Setting aside time to study each day and setting realistic goals is as essential as avoiding last-minute cramming. To prevent becoming overwhelmed, take ten-minute breaks every 30 to 60 minutes. Study when you do your best work. For example, if you are a morning person, study in the mornings. Also, be sure to take advantage of your strengths and use self-discipline when necessary. Fully participate in your classes by asking questions and engaging in group activities. Read more than the required texts to learn as much as you can about your subject.
It is recommended to cut out caffeine drinks after 5 p.m. and getting six to eight hours of sleep a night whenever possible. Also, don’t forget that eating a well-balanced diet and exercising daily helps you relieve stress and stay healthy, which can definitely help you meet the challenges of school life.
Tips For Financing Your Education
Working with students from all economic backgrounds, Ohayon knows that, for many families, paying for college is may seem like a daunting or even insurmountable hurdle. Fortunately, however, there are a number of ways to fund an education, even when you’re financially limited.
One of the problems experts see as they work with students is a lack of knowledge about the kinds of financial assistance available. Many students would qualify for a scholarship of one kind or another. Scholarships, which are financial awards given to students to further their educations, differ significantly from loans, as they have no repayment requirement. Scholarships may be based on merit, career choice or financial need. Merit-based scholarships often depend not only on GPA but also on standardized test scores. Therefore, it’s a good idea to start preparing for tests like the ACT or SAT as early as eighth or ninth grade.
Grants are similar to scholarships. They do not have to be repaid but are more restricted. They are generally need-based and are often only be applicable to certain education-related expenses.
Student loans are also available from the federal government and other private sources. Loans do require repayment, but payments are not due while the student is in school. Typically, student loans are more flexible than private loans.
A lesser-known college financing option is a 529 savings plan. The plan allows users to invest in a variety of funds. Parents who invest in a child’s secondary education using the 529 qualify for tax deductions in most states.
Many experts recommend beginning a savings plan of some kind immediately, even if college is just around the corner. It’s also not too late to pursue scholarships and grants. Although it’s always better to start saving early and apply for scholarships ahead of time, there may be money available even at the last minute.