One week into the semester…

For most university students, we are now entering the second week of the semester. You may be experiencing overwhelm right now. Certain classes have a multitude of assignments and several different websites to access to complete them. Canvas, Cengage, MindTap, WebAssign, Discussion Forums, SONA, SmartBook, and so many more. Some of you may even have academic probation requirements to schedule and complete. How to keep track of it all?

You may have access to an app like Canvas that will show you what is due over the next week, but how will you plan for those assignments and exams? Will you be reactive and do those things as they show up or will you be proactive and plan? Google Calendar to the rescue.

Google Calendar is your external brain. It holds every bit of information that you need to remember to ensure a smooth and successful semester. Your calendar can hold practically everything including your plan for accomplishing those things promptly leaving you time to enjoy extracurricular activities.

What you can include in your Google Calendar:

• Every assignment's due date for the semester

• Every exam and quiz date for the semester (be prepared for 2 exams on the same day by planning early)

• Fraternity/sorority schedules, obligations, and opportunities

• Club schedules

• Breakout steps for large projects, research, and books to read

• Campus events

• Office hours for every class

• Syllabus and document storage

• Tutoring schedules

• Lists for just about anything from websites to look at to groceries to buy.

• Errands to accomplish

• Small things you want to remind yourself to do (like calling someone, repairing an item you’ve been putting off, researching something you are thinking of buying, and so much more.)

Benefits of using your Google Calendar:

• Nothing is left to chance. It’s all in your external brain where you can access it on your laptop, your phone, or your tablet.

• Your time becomes visible. You’ll be less likely to schedule too much on any single day.

• You stay organized like never before. Your life has structure.

• You can plan to work on assignments early enough to be able to get help before their due date.

• It is flexible when your plans change.

• You can use notifications for meetings and events.

• It keeps you on task day by day.

• It helps you decide to say ‘no’ or ‘yes’ to unexpected opportunities.

• It will free your brain to concentrate on the important stuff like studying.

• You can create a shared calendar with classmates to coordinate group projects.

• You can use it for travel planning - reminders for booking tickets and planning activities. Put your confirmation numbers right in your calendar.

• You can keep track of your fitness schedule, and remind yourself when it’s time to schedule medical and dental checkups.

• Add an address to any event so that it connects to Google Maps.

Google Calendar is one of the most valuable tools for your college career and beyond. Master it now. Consider my Time Management class or the Semester Plan for New Clients to get assistance throughout the semester. Contact me to set up a free consultation.