Tips for moms studying at college
July 18, 2012
Moms who've decided to return to school may have to readjust to studying for exams. After applying for financial aid for moms and starting classes, though, and the best way to study can easily come back with a few pointers.
Organization
The first step to being skilled at studying is having the right materials. You can't study well unless you have good notes to review. In class, be sure to pay attention and record important information. If you feel you're missing facts when you write by hand, bring a recording device and save a professor's lecture to replay before a test - just make sure this is allowed beforehand. Using folders and binders to keep track of your homework and graded papers will help you keep track of everything you need when the time comes to review.
Planning out your time will help you, too. If you schedule periods of study over several days, you won't be forced to stay up late the night before the exam.
Environment
Finding the right place to study can be challenging, but worth it in the end. Think about your personal study habits, and decide on the optimal location from that knowledge. If you're a morning person, test out the local cafe and if you'd characterize yourself as more of a night owl, check out your university or local library and see what their hours are. Create a personal study space in your own home where you can sit in quiet and focus.
Collaboration
Sometimes, facing studying alone is intimidating - see if your fellow classmates want to have a review session. Reviewing with others can show you how much you remember and make you realize parts of the class you're less knowledgeable about. Asking questions and discussing notes can help you prepare for a test, and even make studying a little more fun.
Explanation
When you teach a lesson to someone else, you have to fully understand the topic. So, if there's a particularly tricky section in a class, try explaining it to your children or your husband. Not only will the process of teaching it help you grasp the concepts, but it will also let you bond with your family.
Self-knowledge
In the end, you have to decide the best study strategy for yourself. Know what you need to study well and perform to the best of your ability. Reminding yourself of why you're pursuing higher education and maintaining motivation can help you push through those study hours, too.
