Time management as an international student in the U.S.
Starting your postgraduate journey in the U.S. is an exciting time, filled with countless opportunities for growth. However, you’ll also face challenges, such as adjusting to a new culture and balancing your studies with your social life. The key to thriving in your new college setting is effective time management as an international student. With the right strategies, you can schedule your time efficiently and make the most of your postgraduate experience. Here are some tips to help you stay organized, reduce stress and achieve your goals as an international student.
1. Get on a regular sleep schedule
Living in a new country can be disorienting, especially as you’re adjusting to a new time zone. That’s why your first order of business is getting on a regular sleep schedule.
Set a consistent bedtime and wake-up time to reset your body’s internal clock. To boost your sleep quality, try to create a relaxing wind-down routine at the end of the day and limit your exposure to screens at least an hour before you want to sleep.
Limit how much coffee you drink throughout the day, too, as caffeine can keep you up at night. Getting quality sleep is crucial to your mental and physical health. By making it a priority off the bat, you’ll be better able to concentrate on your studies and deal with the challenges of postgraduate life.
2. Make a daily to-do list
Making a to-do list each day is a great way to stay on track with your various commitments. You’ll be a lot less likely to forget important tasks and deadlines by writing everything down, from papers you need to write to club meetings you want to attend.
Once you have your to-do list written down, figure out which tasks are the highest priority. Consider tackling your high-priority tasks first, so you can start your day with momentum and a sense of accomplishment.
Be realistic about how much you can get done in a single day. If your lists are getting too long, consider which tasks you can shift to a different day in the week.
3. Use a planner
A planner is an invaluable tool in creating your schedule as a postgraduate student in the U.S. You could use a physical notebook or an online tool, such as Google Calendar.
Set aside some time at the beginning of each week to write down your tasks, appointments and goals. Set aside dedicated time for studying, research and schoolwork throughout the week.
Don’t forget to schedule in time for self-care, socializing and relaxing, as well. With a planner, you’ll be able to visualize your schedule, keep track of deadlines and find a balance between your academic and personal life.
4. Practice time blocking
Time blocking is another time management technique that can make it easier to structure your day. It involves dividing your day into distinct blocks of time and designating each block to a specific task.
For example, you might set aside two hours in the morning for writing a paper, three hours in the afternoon for studying and an hour and a half in the evening for dinner with friends.
As you fill out your time blocks, consider which tasks are the most urgent and important. Set clear goals and outcomes for each time block so you know whether you’re staying on track.
Be realistic about how much time you set aside for certain tasks, too. Although it might be tempting to set aside only an hour to write a paper, it could be more realistic to designate three to four hours to the process.
You also want to consider your energy levels as you prioritize your task. If you’re a morning person, schedule your more intensive tasks in the morning. If you’re a night owl, you might prefer the opposite approach.
5. Consider your environment
When it comes to studying, you may need to seek out a space that helps you focus. Some students work best at their desk in their room, while others need the quiet of a library or the background noise of a cafe.
Consider your learning style and what type of environment best suits it. Seek out the best environment for your study time to reduce distractions and optimize your learning.
6. Be flexible and take breaks
Although you might feel overwhelmed with work and deadlines at times, it’s important to take breaks every once in a while. Pushing through can lead to burnout, which makes it impossible to focus and be productive.
One approach to studying and work is the Pomodoro technique. This strategy involves focusing on tasks in 25-minute blocks, separated by short breaks. Scheduling in breaks can give your brain time to relax so you can better focus when you return to studying.
Keep in mind that you’ll probably have unexpected events turn up in your day, too. Rather than stressing out about a schedule disruption, look over your planner to see how you can rearrange your time.
7. Seek out school resources
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, your school likely has some services that could help. Many colleges offer free tutoring, for instance, if you need assistance in a challenging subject.
They also have mental health services that offer one-on-one or group counseling. Your counselor could help you manage homesickness, deal with stress or hone your time management skills.
You might also have an advisor who can suggest courses to take or internships to pursue as you earn your degree. Plus, your school’s career services office could help you clarify your future career goals and write a resume.
Earning your postgraduate degree is challenging, especially when you’re in a new country far away from friends and family. Don’t hesitate to use your school’s international student services office and other resources for assistance along the way.
Final thoughts: How to manage your time as an international student
Studying overseas in the U.S. as a postgraduate student is filled with adjustments and challenges, and learning how to create a schedule and manage your time can help. A few time management tips and self-care can go a long way toward easing your transition and setting you up for success.
