Getting Organized

Your home may be your castle but now that you are taking online courses, it also becomes your college campus. You will need to call forth your best organizational skills of time and space.

 

By carving out a small area in your home as your own personal classroom, you will be creating an environment in which you can nurture good study habits. Create a place you can go to and shut yourself off from the rest of the world. If possible, close the door and turn off your cell, make a statement that you are a serious student. Rather than setting your class schedule as “whenever I can get to it,“ set up class days and times and study periods as if you were on campus.

 

If your computer area is small, perhaps a wireless keyboard and mouse would give you more flexibility and space to lay out materials and projects.

 

You will also need a bookcase, shelving or baskets to help you keep your study materials, notes and disks organized. Hang a calendar on the wall to record class deadlines. Whether on campus or online, being a self-starter sets you up for success.

 

It may sound like all work and no play but with a little organization, you will be able to carve out necessary downtime. In addition to work and study, you need to get out for a walk, call a friend or pursue a hobby. You have to set limits. You will need balance in your life to avoid burnout.

 

Be good to yourself. Reward yourself once in awhile. Check out the latest in wireless and broadband. Maybe something as simple as wireless headphones would make your day.