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How to Stay Motivated All Semester Long

Sep 24, 2021

College can be one of the most fun and rewarding times of your life, but it can also be challenging. You might start the semester out strong, excited about your new classes, and willing to put in your best effort. However, many students find it can become overwhelming after the first few assignments or tests, leading to decreased motivation and sluggish ambition. School, work, and managing your social life can feel like they’re piling up all at once with your scholarly obligations.


How does anyone remain motivated throughout the entire semester? What’s the best way to stay strong until the last final is complete? To keep that energy strong, remember these six motivators: 


1. Surround Yourself With Motivated Friends

One of the toughest parts of college is balancing your social life with your responsibilities. University campuses are designed to help you connect with other people, so there are often fun activities every night of the week. Many students live with their friends, and it’s difficult to say no to an invitation when you have homework to do. That’s why it’s important to surround yourself with people who are a positive influence. You can also utilize study areas at your student housing complex to work with roommates and friends who live close. 


When you have friends who prioritize their schoolwork, you don’t have to choose between doing your homework and hanging out. You can walk to the library together or order pizza while working on homework at home. When you combine working on homework and hanging out with friends, it will be easier to finish all your assignments because you have someone else to motivate you. 


Sometimes working on homework with friends can be distracting, so if you’re prone to interrupting your work to chat, try putting headphones in and establishing how long you’ll work before taking a break to talk. 


2. Don’t Be Afraid To Take Breaks When You Need Them

One of the biggest causes of student burnout is not allowing yourself to relax early in the semester. While it’s great to give your best effort at the beginning of the school year, it’s important to make time for friends and hobbies. Otherwise, you’ll likely lose motivation. Allowing yourself some rest is essential for maintaining your mental health


Try to plan a fun activity at least once a week, even if it’s for a short amount of time. Be sure to see your friends regularly. Make sure you’re also taking small breaks throughout the day. Go for a quick walk after you’ve done an hour or two of homework, or visit the gym in between classes. 


The activity you choose to do during your break isn’t as important as making sure you’re taking breaks. Your brain needs time to rest. Without it, you may feel some burnout before the semester is through. 


3. Use The Help That’s Available 

Most colleges have an abundance of resources designed to set students up for success. Writing centers traditionally have tutors available to help with writing assignments for any subject. T.A’s are there to help you learn the material. You can even reach out to your professor if you feel you’re struggling with a subject and ask for advice on improving. Don’t be afraid to be honest with your professors, they understand most hardships students suffer throughout a college experience. Most professors become teachers because they want to help. 


There are also mental health and counseling services available to students. These services can help you deal with stress and develop stronger coping mechanisms. College is a high-stress period of life, which is why universities provide these resources. Take advantage of as many as you can. 


4. Get Organized

When it feels like there’s too much on your plate and you can’t possibly manage it all, it’s time to become a pro at organization. It’s easier to manage all your responsibilities when you’ve written them down and created an action plan. Get an organizer or calendar to help prioritize and schedule events, homework, or important moments throughout the week. 


When you write everything down and create a timeline for accomplishing each task, you might see you have more time than you realized. You’ll likely be able to include some free time in your schedule, but first, you have to have it all written down. 


5. Improve Time Efficiency

One of the biggest things that cause students to feel overwhelmed and lose motivation is a lack of time. Many students don’t realize they would have more time if they got rid of any unnecessary distractions. 


It’s all-too-common for students to waste time in the morning and before bed scrolling through their phones. This time would be better spent getting in a workout or scheduling out the day. To help yourself avoid distractions, turn your phone off at least an hour before bed and during study sessions. Don’t turn it on again in the morning until you’re up and ready for the day. 


Another trick for improving time efficiency is to watch or listen to lectures, readings, or notes for an upcoming test while at the gym. You’ll be able to get your workout in, while also increasing your chances of acing your upcoming quizzes and assignments. It’s important to maintain your health while in school, so it’s nice to be able to fit workouts into your study time. 


6. Keep The Big Picture In Mind

When you’re feeling like college is too much to handle, remember why you’re doing it. Think about your career goals and the life you want to have. Even though the finish line might seem far away, every assignment you turn in, and every test you study for, brings you one step closer to graduation and your dream career. Be sure to celebrate every small accomplishment because they are all important in taking you closer to your goals. 


If you’re feeling uncertain about your dream career and unsure about the path you’re on, this could easily lead to burnout. Take some time to discuss your path with an academic or career counselor to make sure you’re heading in a direction you’re excited about. When you finally graduate, you’ll look back on all the hard work you did throughout the years and feel proud of yourself.

By Jenn Handy 26 Mar, 2024
Are you heading to college this year? Congratulations! It’s an exciting time with a lot to look forward to. For most people, this is their first time living away from home. If that’s true of you, you might feel unsure about how to begin packing for college–a task that can be more difficult than it sounds.  The key to success is to pack strategically. There’s much to consider when determining what to bring with you, including the weather, space limitations, and roommate preferences. We’ve put together the ultimate guide to packing for your college apartment so you feel ready to tackle the semester. Kitchen Items College apartment kitchens can be tricky. Because your space is shared and limited, you should communicate with roommates to avoid ending up with four toasters. Here are some essential items to bring with you: Appliances: toaster, blender, coffee maker, mini-fridge Cleaning supplies: dish soap, sponges, hand towels, trash bags Cookware: pots, pans, baking sheets, microwave-safe dishes Storage containers: reusable containers and zipper bags Tableware: plates, bowls, glasses, mugs, cutlery Utensils: knives, cutting boards, spatulas, wooden spoons, measuring cups, measuring spoons, can opener Some helpful tips for maximizing your kitchen space include: Investing in stackable and collapsible storage solutions Installing renter-friendly hooks and shelves Using drawer organizers to keep drawers clutter-free Consider your daily habits to ensure you bring everything you need. Whether you love a morning smoothie or baking on the weekends, bring the items that make you feel at home. Bedroom Items Your bedroom (or at least your side of it) is the area within your apartment where you will likely spend the most time. You want it to be both comfortable and functional! Don’t forget to pack these items to create a cozy, organized space: Bedding: sheets, pillowcases, pillows, comforter or duvet, blankets Laundry items: laundry hamper, clothes airer, coat hangers. Storage solutions: under-the-bed storage boxes, over-the-door-hooks, hanging organizers for your closet, drawer dividers If you suspect you might need extra storage space, pack multipurpose furniture like storage ottomans or baskets. Consider changing your wardrobe seasonally. Take what you need for the semester ahead and exchange your clothing when you visit home to ensure you have the right clothes for the coming months without overcrowding your closet. Bathroom Items Many college students will share a bathroom while living at or near their university. A shower caddy can make it easier to carry items to and from the bathroom, while travel-sized containers can also save some space. When using a shared bathroom, you may want to invest in shower shoes or sliders to protect your feet. Here are some other essentials to pack: Cleaning products: bathroom cleaner, toilet cleaner, surface wipes, rags/paper towels Toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, skin care products, other personal hygiene products Towels: hand towels, bath towels, washcloths, loofah Study Materials Developing a good study routine is important during your early days at college. Forming good habits right away will help ensure you dedicate enough time to your studies while still enjoying the rest of your college experience. These items will contribute to a productive study environment: Organizational tools: file folders, binder clips, small bulletin board/whiteboard, phone for digital organization apps School supplies: notebooks, pens, pencils, highlighters, sticky notes, tape, stapler, scissors, calendar/planner Technology: laptop/device with charger and accessories, desk lamp/reading light, headphones Decor Remember to be considerate when decorating your college apartment. If you’re thinking about decorating a common area, you should discuss decor preferences with your roommates to help everyone enjoy a comfortable living space. These items are sure to add a little personality to your space: Alternative lighting: string lights, lamps, candles (if permitted) Art: wall art, removable decals, posters, tapestries, renter-friendly shelving Linens and furnishings: throw pillows, blankets, rugs, curtains Personal items: sentimental objects, photographs of loved ones Decorating with items that reflect your personality and interests will make your space feel like home. If you don’t know exactly how to decorate your space, gather ideas from Pinterest, Instagram, and TikTok. Miscellaneous Items Many people forget to list miscellaneous items on their college packing lists because they are mundane, but these items can be some of the most important! Remember to pack these basic things for a smooth start to the semester: Additional cleaning supplies : trash cans, vacuum, broom, duster, mop Basic toolkit: hammer, screwdriver, nails, measuring tape, level, pliers, wrench Laundry supplies : detergent, fabric softener, dryer sheets, stain remover Sports equipment : yoga mat, resistance bands, or small workout equipment for staying active Contact Vintage Tabernacle There are many items to consider when packing for college. Building a home takes time, and you may not have everything you need right away. Keep a running list of items you are missing, and if times are tight, purchase them gradually in order of importance. Consider buying items secondhand as well. Items don’t have to be new as long as you have what you need. Your college apartment should be somewhere you feel safe and comfortable. Planning ahead and adding your personal touches can make a big difference as you settle into your new place. If you’re looking for the best student housing near Utah Tech, check out our availability at Vintage Tabernacle or contact us today to schedule a tour.
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Pair St. George and fall together and you have the perfect combination. Not only is the weather still mild enough to enjoy outdoor activities, but the whole area is a rainbow of color. The changing seasons leave delightful yellows, reds, browns, and oranges everywhere you go. For students, the end of summer doesn’t have to mean the end of all fun. There are tons of ways to enjoy yourself in St. George. With a jam-packed schedule of fall events, you won’t want to be anywhere else. Here are several of the many fun options you can choose to make the most of the autumn season in St. George.  Fall Festival and Thunder Junction Spook-Track-Ular Fall festival in St. George has now been merged with the traditional Thunder Junction Spook-track-ular. If you’re looking for something suitable for any age, this is where you need to be. The whole park is lit with spooktacular lights and decorated suitably for Halloween celebrations. 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See A Tuacahn Show in The Crisp Weather If you’re searching for an inspiring and memorable experience while you’re in St. George, look no further than Tuacahn Center for the Arts. The center is full of shows that will entertain and inspire you. From Disney classics to Broadway favorites, there’s always something for everyone to enjoy. The center also has a Saturday market on-site, as well as a cafe and dining facility. If you’re looking for the perfect way to spend a few hours, a visit to the Tuacahn Center of the Arts is ideal. The St. George Marathon If you’re looking for a reason to challenge yourself, the St. George marathon runs every fall. The ‘marathon’ is suitable for almost all ages, because there are several options to choose from. You can opt for a 5k run, half a marathon, or the full 26.2 mile marathon. Other options include the mayor's one-mile walk and a fun “walk ‘n’ roll” event that is suitable for children from two years of age. There are also measures put in place for those with disabilities wishing to compete. Once the race is done, head over to Dixie’s Center’s park for games and live music to celebrate the achievement. Fiesta Fright Looking for something a bit more spooky? If you’re brave enough, why not take your chances at Fiesta Fun Center? During the fall, the center transforms into a haunted house. Guests follow two story trails and while listening, you’ll need to keep your eyes peeled for things lurking in the shadows. The Fiesta Fright event recommends that this event is suitable for those 13 years of age and older. It’s perfect for students who want to relax a bit when the schoolwork is over. Staheli Family Farm If you prefer the more traditional way of celebrating fall, you’ll want to know where to find the best pumpkins. The Staheli Family Farm will provide everything you need! From a pumpkin patch to a field of screams, you’re sure to enjoy yourself. You’ll also find a petting zoo and wagon rides at the farm, along with wicked witch members of staff ready to take your photo at any opportunity. It’s a great fun day out and you’ll walk away with your very own pumpkin to carve. Huntsman World Senior Games If you can find the time while you’re in St. George, the Huntsman World Senior Games is a must-see. The competition is for those aged 50 and over, but spectators can watch for free. It attracts people from all over the world, so you can expect to see a diverse crowd. This competition is held in the fall and it includes spectacular opening and closing ceremonies. The competition continues to grow every year and is becoming something of a local tradition. It’s a fun sporting event to watch, and you may just leave feeling inspired! Red Bull Mountain Biking Competition That’s right – you’re in the right place at the right time. Southern Utah is home to this hugely popular competition during the fall and people travel from far and wide to watch it. Not only is it exciting to watch, but it’s also set in the Red Rock Mountain landscape! The view is spectacular and you could spend all day there, even if there weren’t talented mountain bike riders competing against each other. The competition is intense and you never know what might happen, so be prepared to see anything. Where To Stay If you’re studying in St. George, Utah, it’s important to secure student living before you arrive. At Vintage at Tabernacle , we’ve got you covered. Our new housing options are located just one block away from Utah Tech University. You’ll find our modern and spacious rooms ideal for student living. If you’re looking for affordable living with a great social atmosphere and fantastic amenities, come to us first. It’s easy to apply online . Just check our new resident availability and select the option that suits you best. If you have any questions, check our FAQs or send us a message via our convenient contact form.
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