PVCC’s Fall 2020 semester kicked off with a great start and we can’t believe that it’s already October and midterms are beginning. So far students have established a rhythm and routine to keep their schedules running smoothly, getting to know their instructors and peers in a virtual setting, as well as overcoming any hiccups in this new online learning environment.
Our PVCC student ambassadors are experiencing the same highs and lows as many of you, navigating their own pathway this semester. From one Puma to another, here is what they had to say about what helps them be successful.
Christopher Engle
Join your professor’s office hours! This helps you both so much because you gain more knowledge on something that is standing in your way to success and it also shows your professor that you are engaging and WANT to succeed; two birds, one stone.
Rim Awfe
Create a schedule! Write in a planner or set reminders on your phone for when you are planning to study for each class and when you will be taking breaks.
Susan Karoubi
Take notes by hand! Even though so many classes use Power Points, taking your notes by hand helps with memory retention and remembering more in the long term.
Bella McDannell
Time-block your schedule. Instead of writing a to-do list for the day, organize your day by time blocks. For example, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. block that time for homework, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. would be for lunch, and so forth. By assigning yourself time blocks, it creates a more realistic schedule for you to accomplish your tasks and not get too hung up on one task. It also creates movement and fluidity through your day. Similar to a high school schedule, you would have science from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and focus on that class. When that time ends, you move on to the next class. So, think of your day like that. There are 24 hours in a day and we have to utilize those hours.
Brandon Berg
Set deadlines for online assignments earlier than the due date. The more you stay ahead the less assignments you will have to cram in the night before. Also, when on the computer use the 20/20/20 rule - 20 minutes screen time, then 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This lessens eye strain.
Jaden Greene
Give yourself off days! Dedicate at least one day a week to doing absolutely nothing but pampering yourself. Rent that movie you’ve wanted to see, light a candle, give yourself a pedicure, binge watch your favorite TV show. Giving yourself time for rest and relaxation is important. It gives you something to look forward to when school days feel tiring. After having a relaxation day, you feel more motivated to do your work because you had time to loosen up. I do it every single week!
Faith Pullen
Taking care of your mental and physical health can help your academic performance. Create due-date reminders on your calendars/phone, and always reward yourself.