What helps you get through your to-do list?

4 ways MNSU students study and stay stress-free

It’s the middle of the semester and as a student, you have a lot going on.

There are papers, quizzes, exams, the horrid group projects, and midterms that are just around the corner. It can be a lot to deal with, especially if you’re new to the whole college thing.

But dealing with stress isn’t that hard, and a little stress can actually be a good thing, so long as you’re using it to push yourself to complete the work. Here’s what a few students from MNSU do to keep their stress levels low and finish their homework on time.

1. Make a to-do list

Alcohol and Drug Studies major Mike Edison says that when he has a ton to do, he just makes a to-do list. Seeing the things he has to get done written down helps him keep track. He says that it also helps motivate him when he crosses the tasks off, because he can see the number of things he has to do decrease.

2. Study a little each day

A senior studying biology said that she studies a bit each day before a big test or quiz. Instead of studying for hours or cramming the night before, she takes a little in at a time. “It helps to study in chunks so you’re not overwhelming yourself,” she said. “I think I remember the material better if I’m not trying to cram it all in.”

3. Study with a buddy

If you’ve got a friend or acquaintance in a class, try to set up a time to study with them or work on homework. Having someone there can help keep you motivated to finish your work. You can also help each other if you ever get stuck or need an idea for a paper or project. One student says that if she doesn’t have any friends in her classes, she’ll still meet up with someone to work on homework. Even if they can’t help you on something specific, having a friend will keep you from slacking off.

4. Take a break
This may seem counterintuitive, but if you’ve been working on homework for a few hours, it pays to take a break. Rest your brain and eat something, or even take a shower. You should try to relax so you can get back to your homework refreshed and ready to go. Otherwise, you might burn out and not do as well as you want to or quit because you’re so fried.

If you’re someone who gets themselves stuck in a bit of rut in the middle of the semester, try some of these tips out. You could find something new to keep your stress levels down and your production levels up.

But if you are experiencing more stress than usual and can’t seem to keep up with all the work you have to do, try scheduling an appointment with the Counseling Center here on campus. A counselor can help you with managing stress and many other mental health issues. Plus, it’s free.

You can go to their office which is located in CSU 285 to fill out some initial paperwork. Then call their number, (507)-389-1455, or go in person, to schedule an appointment.