Routines, Practices and Good Habits for College Students
Posted: November 14, 2022 | Author: Clare-Estelle Perkins | Read Time: 5 minutes
Southern Utah University provides many resources to help you achieve success in school and college life. Utilizing these resources and establishing routines and good habits in college will help you get the structure you need to reach your goals. These practices can help you become happier, healthier and more successful as a student.
Routines and Habits for College Students
Take care of yourself and your mental health
First and foremost, take your mental health seriously. It has the biggest effect on your productivity and well being. College offers an opportunity to understand yourself and the world better, as well as make lifelong friendships. The transition can also be enormously taxing on your mental health as it also brings social and emotional pressures.
We encourage all students to explore the mental health services offered at SUU:
- Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
- Timely Care
- Health and Wellness Center
- Emergency/SUU Police: 435-586-1911
You can find all of these resources under “Mental Health Resources” on the top right-hand side of your SUU portal. That will direct you to a page that can help you determine the help you need.
Take new classes
College is an opportunity for self-discovery, and there’s no better way to find out what you are skilled at and what you are interested in than to take a wide variety of classes. Why not take advantage of your college experience by exploring new subjects? Try to get a taste of as much as you can!
Why should you take a variety of classes?
- Examine options for your future: especially for exploring college freshmen, taking an array of different subjects can help you narrow down your idea for a future career.
- Making connections: taking different kinds of classes allows you to meet all kinds of people you might not meet in your declared major. Making these connections in different interests will be very beneficial to you.
- Preparing for post-graduation life: the ability to blend skill sets and knowledge can translate directly into future career success. Employers often seek well rounded candidates. Having creative abilities may give you a competitive edge.
Look into study abroad programs
Just like taking new classes, a study abroad program will also give you great new experiences. SUU's Study Abroad Program is ranked #1 in the Intermountain West. By studying abroad, you can experience new places and cultures, make friends from around the world, and gain a global perspective–while earning credits toward your degree. It can help you develop highly-valued skills such as intercultural communication, foreign languages, adaptability, and problem-solving. All students, not just freshmen, should explore their study abroad opportunities to broaden their college experience.
Manage your study space and time
This one might be obvious, but studying is a very important habit to establish and the easiest way to be successful in your classes. Review your material several days ahead of time, in small chunks, and in different manners (for example, write flashcards one day and take practice tests the next). In other words, don't cram.
There are all sorts of ways to study as well as spaces all over campus.
- Study groups: sitting down with a group of people who are learning the same material as you is a great way to go over confusing class material or prepare for a big test. You can quiz each other, reteach material, and ensure everyone is on the same page. Teaching someone else is one of the best ways to learn.
- Divide it up: Studying isn't fun to begin with, and forcing yourself through a study marathon will only make things worse. Dividing your work into manageable pieces and rewarding yourself when you finish each small project will make studying less overwhelming and more manageable.
- Set a schedule: Some people work best after class, while others work best after dinner. Some people are most productive working in 90-minute blocks, and others do half-hour spurts. It is important to find a study schedule that works for you and stick to it.
- Find your study space: find a place that will maximize your productivity. Look for places away from a TV or any other distractions. Whether it's working in the campus library or just the desk in your bedroom, set aside a study space that you'll want to spend time in. Campus dorms also have several rooms set aside for studying.
Use the school's free study help!
Seeking extra help when you’re struggling is encouraged and SUU has many free resources just to help you!
- Writing Center - The Writing Center offers assistance with any writing assignments
- Tutoring Center - walk-in, one-on-one, group, or online free tutoring sessions are offered to students for any course.
- Speech & Presentation Center - Get help with speech delivery and presentation anxiety.
- Language Lab - offer individualized tutoring, labs, and conversation tables weekly in the Languages and Logic Lab (GC 104)
- Professor office hours - All professors have office hours set aside for you! Don’t be shy to utilize them. Ask your professor when their office hours are and shoot them an email in advance so they know when to expect you.
Get Outside!
SUU has obtained the trademark “University of the Parks” and there’s no mystery why. As the school with the best backyard, it's no wonder Cedar City has been recognized as the “Gateway to the National Parks.” We are surrounded by outdoor adventures! Studies show that spending time outdoors benefits your mental and physical health. As students, you get caught up with the stress that comes with school and work and it is important to get out and let off some of that steam. Lucky for you, SUU Outdoors offers free opportunities to explore the amazing landscapes and sceneries that surround Cedar City. Their priority is getting students into the beautiful outdoors to create meaningful and inspiring experiences.
These are just some of the many ways SUU can help you establish habits to better your college experience and prepare you for your future. All students are encouraged to take care of themselves and be successful, using the routines and habits for college students that work best for them. Always remember you can reach out to your Academic Advisors for a one-on-one appointment to find out exactly what you need.
Tags: Student Campus Resources Student Life
