Fall semester is in full swing and students face an ever-growing list of chapters that need to be read and papers coming due.
With all the work piling up, it can be easy for students to get overwhelmed and stressed out. Freshmen may begin to realize that reading textbooks is actually necessary, while some returning students may be having trouble figuring out how to get into a “study routine” coming out of summer.
For those having a hard time concentrating, here are some helpful tips as well as “study snack” ideas to munch on while reviewing for that next big test.
Move Around
In 2010, The New York Times published an article about study habits, suggesting that students shouldn’t stick to just one place when studying.
“The brain makes subtle associations between what it is studying and the background sensations it has at the time,” according to the Times.
In other words, don’t just stick to your favorite place to study. Take advantage of the three libraries APU has to offer, or if the weather permits, enjoy the nature of Wynn Amphitheater. There are plenty of places outdoors and indoors around campus that are perfect for hitting the books.
Get Some Sleep
With all the work that needs to be done, sleep is often the last thing on students’ minds, but in reality sleep is one of the keys to success, according to an article written and published by Huffington Post.
The piece encourages students to get at least eight hours of sleep. How does that happen with a student schedule? The article outlines steps, including drawing boundaries when it comes to hanging out with friends and maintaining a strict study schedule.
In college, there’s always the battle between missing out on dorm events and not finishing that chapter due for the next class. Even more important is health. According to Huffington Post, a good night’s rest is critical when it comes to your physical side and overall well-being as a student.
Eat Fruit
Fruit provides natural sugars that won’t give you the same crash that coffee may, but will still provide that boost you need to power through your study session.
Specific fruits have their own benefits that are unique. In a study by Tufts University, researchers found that blueberries have the ability to improve memory skills as well as improve balance and coordination.
Make fruit salad, put fruit in yogurt or make a smoothie – all are perfect for snacking while studying.
Go Nuts For Nuts
Nuts have a variety of health benefits that can help treat ailments such as high cholesterol and heightened blood pressure. College students may not face those particular types of problems, but nuts have the added benefit of helping the brain develop and work to its full capacity.
An article from sfgate.com reports there are a variety of nuts that help with brain development. Almonds, for example, can improve memory. This is essential for students studying for a big test who need to remember what they learned so far in the semester.
So whether it be sipping on fruit smoothies in Stamps Library or sorting through cashews at the prayer wall, make sure to get your study on so that you can stay on top of your work.