By Joanna Mendoza
The jump from one grade to another is a huge adjustment due to harder classes, extracurriculars, planning for any upcoming tests, and future applications for scholarships and university. Every grade level has things on their plates, some more than others. Nonetheless, it can get very stressful during these times, luckily with some organization and planning, students can make sure they don't fall behind this year.
"I definitely struggled with staying on top of my schoolwork at the beginning and sorta in the middle of last semester," says Emily Martinez, a current junior at SOAR High School. " It felt overwhelming trying to balance it all. All of a sudden I had so many assignments piling up it was really stressing me out."
Emily said she noticed what worked for her was planning out some type of organizational system that worked around her schedule. This year she said she started to sit down earlier before her due dates and started planning out all her obligations in her school planner, using folders and calendars to keep track of assignments and deadlines, and scheduling separate homework time each day.
"Now that I have a routine, I feel way less stressed," says Emily. "I'd recommend that everyone take some time to plan out a schedule instead of waiting until things start stacking on each other." Even though we are only at the beginning of this semester Emily said her system was working effectively and she can see it being a big help in the future.
This year doesn't have to be overwhelmingly difficult. Here are some top tips:
Use an agenda or planner to map out all your obligations, assignments, practices, events, etc. Make sure to update it and check it often.
Set aside consistent study/homework time in your schedule and stick to it. Don't procrastinate on projects or any assignments, or even studying.
Organize your materials with color-coded folders, notebooks, online folders, etc. to stay on task.
Prioritize self-care like sleep, healthy food, and short breaks to avoid burnout. Don't overwork yourself, we all need a break regardless of how much you have done.
Staying on top of responsibilities will start to pay off when you have a test and also it’s going to help your grades a lot. You'll avoid unnecessary stress along the way. With some planning and dedication, anyone can make this year manageable.
So get to it! Grab your planner and those colorful pens and markers and get ready to tackle this amazing year we have ahead of us! The time put into organization will make a big difference. You've got this!
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