hi help i'm struggling with my first semester of university D: It's taking me so long to do papers even though they don't seem that hard, and I'm also struggling with motivation. I'm also having trouble in my language class. Any tips on paper writing and motivation and also how to make the most out of language class? i know this is a bit much to ask in one ask but itd be great if you could help
hi hey hello! It’s my first semester at college, too, so we are in the same boat! I know jumping in can be a huge adjustment and it can be so overwhelming. I personally don’t have any more big papers to write this semester, but I’ll share some of my tips! <3
For writing papers (AKA ew):
Make a plan. Write out due dates, research days, times to work on it, etc. This will get your head in the right place.
Chunk it up. Don’t just plop down an decide to write a paper! My strategy is a paragraph a day, or Intro/Thesis/Body/Conclusion if you’re strapped for time.
Make it interesting! If you get to pick your topic, make it something you’re actually interested in not just something that’s easy. Last year in English we had to pick a book and analyze the themes in accordance to the historical era. Instead of writing about a book we’d read in class, I chose Jane Eyre and wrote about the stigmas and gender roles of women in the book and time period. Making it fun is totally possible.
If your professors allow it, bring in or e-mail a draft for them to read over and maybe tell you what you could do better. My professors do this in my Public Speaking class and it’s a lifesaver.
For getting/staying motivated:
This first one is a big one for me, but may not be for others, depending on where you live and other factors. It’s humility. I have been very blessed in my life, but I have worked extremely hard for all my scholarships and luckily I won’t have to take out any student loans. If you don’t take classes seriously, you’re literally just wasting your (or your benefactor’s…parents, aid, scholarships) money. Make the most of your time!
Associate studying with something you enjoy doing. Read your textbooks and take notes while enjoying your favorite coffee or snuggling into a cozy blanket. For me, I let Bob’s Burgers play on Netflix and then I switch to another tab so I just listen to it while I revise or things like that (lol right).
Get a study group together! This is one of my favorite things to do in my Business Law class. I get a group of my friends together and we go over previous test questions, notes, etc. It helps to have something to look forward to!
Reward yourself for a job well done. Got an A on that exam? Go get yo’ self an ice cream cone. Studied for a couple hours? Go for a walk and enjoy the weather! Yes you have to study, but you have to maintain self-health as a priority too.
I hope this helps! (Is your language class a grammar/writing/literature class or an actual language like French or Spanish? I can probably help more knowing that). Best of luck, I know you’ll do great things! xoxo