Deadlines. A word that no one really likes. They creep up on you and the next thing you know, you’re staying up all night trying to write a half-decent 3,000-word essay you should have started three weeks ago.
This doesn’t have to happen every time you are given an essay, project, or homework assignment. Life as a college student is prioritizing schoolwork, while getting involved with student life activities such as clubs and organizations, spending time with friends, and maybe even getting in a full night of sleep every once in a while.
Good time management is possible. It takes a lot of practice, an open mind, and perhaps a brand new daily routine. Check out these tips and tricks to become the master of your own time:
Invest in a month-at-a-glance calendar
This is personally my favorite way to stay organized. Whether you get a big desk calendar or a smaller wall calendar, looking at the month as a whole can help prepare you for the upcoming days and weeks and ensure that you do not put too much on your plate at once.
Keep a weekly to-do list
Sounds corny, but if you give it a try, you may just like it. This organization technique will help you see what you need to get done by the end of the week. Try putting your more time-sensitive deadlines at the top, or order them by priority. In my opinion, there is nothing more satisfying than crossing something off a to-do list!
Do your homework the day you get it
Consider doing your homework the day it is assigned while it is still fresh in your mind and, frankly, just to get it done and over with! You will have more time to do it right, as opposed to rushing through it at the last minute just to get it done.
Form study groups with friends
Find some friends in your classes who you can meet up with every once in a while to study with. Scheduling study sessions with friends, instead of trying to squeeze it in whenever you can, will help keep you accountable. It also incorporates a social aspect that is super important to maintaining relationships while in university.
Find your favorite place to study
Try to form the habit of studying in one place that is quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions. Studying in the same place will help form routine. The JCU library is one of my favorite places to go. You'll be sure to find a place that suits you!
Do not be afraid to communicate with your professors
If you are feeling overwhelmed or unsure that you will make a deadline, speak to your professor! Maybe they can give you some of their own tips for success. Be vocal with your concerns. By doing this, they will see that you are proactive and invested in their course. (But do not go to them the day before a big assignment is due!)
Don't forget self-care!
Schoolwork can be stressful and as a college freshman as John Cabot University, I can attest to this! 
While academics may be your first priority, you also must remember to just try your best and not put too much pressure on yourself! Do not forget to take care of yourself and just breathe. Get a good night's sleep, go out with friends, or take a walk around the beautiful city of Rome!
While all of this may seem overwhelming, you don’t have to change everything at once. Try one thing at a time and focus on adding it to your routine. Remember, what works for someone else may not always work for you. Know yourself and do what is best for you! Little by little, you might see schoolwork as more of an opportunity for growth and less of a burden.
Give it a try; you'll thank me later.
Micayla Mirabella
Class of 2020
Communications Major
Hometown: Fanwood, New Jersey
