Now that the school year is underway, students are beginning to feel the stress of their new classes. It has been almost two weeks and everyone is finally getting back in the swing of things. With the routine, comes the realization of how much needs to get done. My advice to anyone stressing out with what seems like never-ending homework, use your open mods. The independent study time was put there for schoolwork, not socializing.

Granted, you do not have to be completely focused on school 100% of the time. If you have back-to-back open mods, use one for schoolwork and the other for socializing. Or, split your mods in half. Focus on schoolwork for one half then socialize for the other. That way, you have less to do at home but still plenty of time to catch up with your friends. Open mods are the perfect opportunity to get stuff done. Go sit at a teachers desk if that will keep you focused and committed to the task. Sitting with a teacher is not only a constant motivator but they are there to help you too.

Last year, I sat with Mrs. Rau every week. Not only, did I finish my math homework but I understood the material and performed better on my assessments. That is the easiest way to ensure you know what you are doing while saving yourself a boatload of stress at the end of the day.