Being an online student means having a lot of flexibility but it also means juggling classes, deadlines and all life throws our way. Staying organized is key to making it work. We’ve got eight great tips to help you. Plus, many of our very own Pima Medical Online students chimed in with how these tips helped them.
#1: Stay Organized:
Organization is key to success in an online program. Educators and fellow students alike recommend the use of a planner (electronic or paper) to stay up to date with assignments. Take some time each week to plan your week. Work, school, kids, etc. Then each morning, take 10 minutes to review your tasks for the day.
Student Tip: “ I did struggle with time management due to course load and working a full-time job, it took me a while to find an adjustment and balance. What I found useful was I had planned my week and was able to work around non-busy days to focus on homework. I know we all are dealing with family, work and kids but if we have a great support system at home, it can help with reducing stress and give us time to focus on our schoolwork.”
#2: Stay Ahead of Assignments:
Try your best to get your work done before it’s due. Get a head start on assignments. Course folders open early, so you can look ahead and plan. Also, consider utilizing Google Drive so you have remote access to your documents and you’ll have a backup if anything ever happens to your computer.
Student Tip: “When I started the program, I wish I had known that there are not a lot of breaks, so stay ahead of the game and when you do get a break, fully enjoy it! Getting work done ahead of time was the number one thing that helped me tremendously to balance work and family.”
#3 Prioritize Your Time:
They say when everything is a priority nothing really is prioritized. If two assignments are due on the same day, ensure the more time-consuming is finished the day before the due date. Large assignments or projects can be overwhelming. Try breaking them down into smaller, manageable tasks. This approach allows you to tackle each task more effectively and provides a sense of accomplishment.
Student Tip: “If you have two assignments, tests and discussions due on the same day, knock out the tests as soon as you can. Then do the discussions each day and figure out which day you have more time and do the assignment that you think will take more time to complete on that day. Complete the other one at your next available time.”
#4 Incorporate Time Management Hacks into Your Life:
Small “hacks” can pay big dividends. Try incorporating a few of these tips and tricks into your studies. If you commute, try the read aloud function of your book to make your travel more productive. And, take that laptop with you at all times. If you’re travelling, having that laptop available will help to ensure you don’t fall behind.
Student Tip: “ I take my laptop while waiting in the car line to pick up my daughter. It might seem insignificant, but each hour adds up and I have been able to accomplish a lot knowing I had to get so much work done and still do everything else in my regular life.”
#5 Stay Connected:
Connection is key when it comes to online learning success. Be sure to subscribe to the discussion board. This feature will alert you to new posts to the discussion without having to log in. And most importantly, reach out to your instructors for support. Unlike some other programs or colleges, at Pima Medical you will have access to instructors and program directors who are ready and willing to help you succeed.
Student Tip: “Do not be embarrassed asking for help. You don’t know what you don’t know and that’s okay as long as you ask for help and are willing to learn. The teachers here are also really helpful so reach out to them if you ever need to. I have messaged many of my teachers over the course of the program and they’ve been insightful and eager to help to see me do well.”
#6 Take Advantage of all the Resources Available to You:
There are many resources at your disposal, so be sure to take advantage and use them toward achieving your goals. Use the library to find high quality, academic sources. The library can be found on the menu in blackboard courses. And don’t forget to bookmark the Student Resource Center. It’s pretty much a one-stop shop for all the tools and resources you’ll need during the program.
Student Tip: “I thought going back to school would be difficult considering there is so much already happening in life. I realized there are plenty of people who want to see me do great things.”
#7 Set Boundaries:
Make sure to set clear boundaries when embarking on an online program. Set realistic goals and manage your expectations. Control what you can, but also be sure to give yourself grace when things happen that you hadn’t planned on. Setting a strict sleep schedule can also help to prevent burnout and keep those boundaries intact.
Student Tip: “There was a time for school and there was personal time. The boundaries helped prevent school’s needs from dominating my life yet ensured I had the proper time to accomplish school needs.”
#8 Remember Your “Why”:
We all have a “why” when it comes to embarking on something like school. Don’t forget what (or who) motivates you and use that as a “north star” when the going gets rough.
Student Tip: “Regularly reminding myself of the reasons I’ve chosen to return to school will help me stay motivated and on the right path for success.”
