College life at OV can be intense, especially with a full class schedule from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM and additional homework every evening. But staying on top of everything doesn’t mean sacrificing fun! The key is smart organization and balance. Here’s how you can own your week and still make time for fitness, friends, and self-care.

1. Plan Your Week in Advance

Start by mapping out your weekly schedule. Since your classes run all day, use a planner or calendar app to schedule your study sessions, workouts, and social activities. Seeing everything in one place will help you manage your time wisely.

Pro tip: Color-code your schedule (e.g., red for classes, blue for homework, green for social/fun activities) to keep things visually organized.

2. Maximize Your Lunch Break

With only 60 minutes for lunch, make the most of it! Pack a healthy, energy-boosting meal the night before so you’re not scrambling for food. If you have time, take a quick walk with classmates or listen to an interesting podcast to refresh your mind before the afternoon grind.

Pro tip: A short, brisk walk can boost focus and prevent the post-lunch slump.

3. Use Time Blocking for Homework

After a long day of classes, homework can feel overwhelming. Instead of procrastinating, use time blocking to tackle assignments efficiently. Try this routine:

• 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM: Quick workout or group study session

• 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM: Focused homework session

• 7:30 PM - 8:00 PM: Dinner and relax

• 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Review notes or finish assignments

• 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Social time, Netflix, or a hobby

By structuring your evening, you’ll stay productive without feeling burnt out.

4. Incorporate Social Studying

Studying doesn’t have to be boring or lonely. Form a study group and meet at a café, the library, or even online. Teaching concepts to each other is a great way to retain information while making studying more engaging.

Pro tip: Turn studying into a game! Quiz each other or use flashcards to keep it fun and interactive.

5. Get Moving!

Sitting in class all day can be exhausting. Incorporating fitness into your schedule will boost your energy and focus. Try:

• A quick HIIT workout right after class

• Evening yoga to relax before bed

• A morning stretch or walk to wake up

Pro tip: If you’re short on time, combine fitness with socializing—go for a run with a friend or join an intramural sports team.

6. Minimize Distractions

After a long day, it’s easy to get lost in social media instead of tackling homework. Use the Pomodoro technique: 25 minutes of focused work, followed by a 5-minute break. This keeps you productive without feeling drained.

Pro tip: Use apps like Forest or Freedom to block distracting websites while studying.

7. Prioritize Sleep and Self-Care

Even with a packed schedule, don’t sacrifice sleep! Aim for at least six hours to keep your brain sharp. Also, make time for things that help you unwind—whether it’s a hot shower, journaling, or listening to music.

Pro tip: Establish a bedtime routine (like reading or meditating) to signal your brain that it’s time to rest.

8. Reflect and Adjust

At the end of the week, take a few minutes to evaluate how things went. Did you manage your time well? Were you too stressed? Adjust your schedule as needed to find the right balance.

Final Thoughts

Staying organized in an intensive program isn’t about squeezing in more work—it’s about working smarter. By planning ahead, making study time social, and prioritizing fitness and self-care, you can tackle your busy week without burning out.

What are your favorite ways to stay organized?