Being in college can be one of the best things that will happen in your life but can also be the most stressful. Aside from the regular day to day work there are the tests, especially the dreadful mid-terms and final exams.
That is why it is good for you as a student to take time off from your studies and have a little free time. Studying for many hours at a time can stress you out and puts you into a position that makes you worried about test day. This is why it is good for you to take frequent breaks.
According to the Recall Plus website, “the Zeigarnik Effect states that if you are half way through something and are interrupted in what you were doing, you will remember what you were doing better than if you had completed whatever the learning task.”
Once you start to feel the pinch of studying, such as frustration or distraction, take a break. However, on your break you should not start watching TV, instead go out side for a walk, do some exercises, or have a snack. Just the contact of the sun will rejuvenate you along with some fresh air to fill your lungs. All of these things will help motivate your mind and will take off much of the stress and frustration that comes with studying.
Another helpful hint from this web site was that once you return from your break, study your weaker points first because you will be in a fresh state of mind.
Taking a break from your studies is a great example of good study techniques. Aside from taking 30-60 minute breaks, students should take time off to enjoy what college life has to offer. “I like to do lots of things like go hunting, playing golf, and playing video games like Madden,” said Robert Hardeman, sophomore, Biology major.
Out of the 20 students interviewed the most popular activities among Palo Alto College students were going to the movies, listening to music, playing video games, and of course Myspace.com.
“Video games, movies and music are my thing, these are just some things I got to have to keep me sane from all my stressful studies,” said Alfonso Perez, sophomore, Business major.
However, many students do not get to enjoy much because of their busy schedules. “I go to school, work, and take care of my daughter. Not much time to have fun,” said Juliane Pierce, a sophomore Art major.
Even though college is hard work, everyone needs some time to have fun, and San Antonio does not disappoint. Aside from our World Champion SanAntonio Spurs, the many live concerts held at the AT&T Center, and the Broadway shows at the old Majestic Theater downtown show that San Antonio is a fun town.
Students need to take a break before hitting the books once again.