Finding Balance

Finding the balance between academic priorities and our own lives can be a barrier to success and overall well-being for freshmen at Penn. I will explain things that have helped me in breaking down this barrier within my first month of being a Penn student!

1. Structuring your week out into blocks of time is key to staying organized and is the first big step you can take in reaching your academic goals, while also having time for other commitments. I highly recommend utilizing Google Calendars as there will be many events, info sessions, and workshops you will want to sign up for. When you receive your finalized course schedule, make sure to add the deadlines and dates of all assignments, exams, and papers. This has been my biggest lifesaver because during your first few weeks here, you don't want to forget about any relevant tasks that could cost you your grade.

2. Do not save studying till two nights before the exam! You will not retain any information you studied and it will leave your brain on the day of the test. Instead, what you want to do is set aside 30-40 minutes a day in reviewing class material for each class every night. I promise that the information will come to mind much more easily compared to cramming a night before the test.

3. Utilize the people around you. Whether it's professors, staff, friends, or peers, everyone here wants you to succeed. If you need help, reach out and I promise someone will lend you a hand. Also, make sure to take advantage of office hours, even if you have no questions. You will have nothing to lose, but information to gain!

- T Sherpa