By Brandon Nunley
Studying can be a surprisingly daunting task. Figuring out a prim and proper way to study can be difficult, everyone has their own way of looking over materials. King’s Academic Center for Excellence (ACE) has provided some tips about some of the best, and worst, study habits.
“The ACE is a place to study and receive assistance with specific academic subjects,” says Heidi Leonard, King’s director of academic success. The ACE offers tutoring for math, writing, speaking, Spanish, and economics at all times. Tutoring schedules are also available for chemistry and anatomy & physiology, check the ACE section on King’s website for those times. “The ACE is a good place to come get specific help or just a quiet place to study, you are always welcome to stop by,” she adds. You can visit the ace anytime between 8am and midnight Monday through Friday.
Not getting enough sleep is a common issue students run into. Between school, sports, and social life students stay busy. Not only will getting the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep per night will make you feel more energized, you will also have an easier time focusing in class and during studying.
Stress is a large factor in a college life. This can lead to procrastination or avoiding studying all together. Some things to help aid in stress relief would be finding a quiet place to study, listening to music, or working outside on campus or one of the local parks. Cumberland Square Park is 5 minutes from campus located near the Bristol city courthouse. Steele Creek is another popular destination only 15 minutes from campus. Giving your body the rest it needs after a long day will also help in stress management.
“Organize yourself” says Leonard. Disorganization, poor time management, and not planning ahead can derail study sessions. Messy or loud areas can be easily distracting. Cleaning out a designated area in your dorm, visiting the library, or going to the ACE will give you a clean, distraction free environment to study. To help with time management think about getting a planner to help you create a schedule that can include designated study time. “Create a study guide as you go along, not just at the end of the semester.” She adds. Creating a list of notes to look over as you follow along in class will give you the opportunity to review exactly what you will need to know.
Combining these tips is sure to help your study sessions go smoothly. More sleep, organization, and stress management are key to getting the most out of your studies. If you have any questions regarding the ACE you can contact Heidi Leonard at her email, hleonard@king.edu or stop by her office in Bristol Hall, Room 108. You can also visit https://www.king.edu/academics/student-academic-services/academic-center-for-excellence/.
