March 22, 2020
COVID-19 still feels surreal to me. We always learn about pandemics, but I don't think I've ever experienced one quite like this and been old enough to truly understand what is happening. I'll save all of the opinions and predictions for individuals more qualified than myself, but what does that mean for us? For college students whose lives were uprooted and displaced in a matter of weeks?
For me, COVID-19 means finishing the semester online. How are you going to keep the same level of productivity in your home? Away from your college friends and study buddies? A SCHEDULE!!
Luckily, I began playing around to make a weekly schedule to increase my productivity with MCAT studying, work, and classes a while ago, but now I will rely on it more than ever. Some of my classes will meet at the normal time using Zoom while others will post lectures for me to watch at my own convenience. And we can't forget about labs, working virtually, MCAT studying, or any other commitments we might have. I've created a wonderful schedule that will help me stay on top of everything and tackle this e-learning! I will attach a link to download my schedule below, which you will be able to edit for your needs. First, let me walk you through it.
I created color-coded categories to help me see from a quick glance how my days would go. I went with more pastel colors to make it more visually pleasing. I would recommend altering the categories to fit your needs - maybe you want to separate yours based on mandatory and optional activities?
Fill in the mandatory things first! I started with class lectures, trying to watch them at normal class time to keep one thing constant among all of the changes occurring. Mandatory things could include classes, MEALS, studying, etc.
Fill in optional activities last. For me, the gym is mandatory. For someone else, it may be mandatory so it only gets filled in on days will remaining space. Optional activities could include hanging out with friends, getting your nails done, or other self-care activities. Just remember to practice social distancing while we are still being affected by COVID-19!
Blank space is okay. Your schedule is not final. I keep blank space because I know that things pop up daily. Maybe your mom invites all of your family over, so you can't focus and have to shift your studying time. This schedule is solely meant to be a guide. Don't beat yourself up if you don't stick to it. The most important thing to do is create a list of what NEEDS to get done everyday, make sure that happens, and try not to let everything pile up.
I hope everyone is staying safe and healthy during this COVID-19 pandemic. Everyone's lives has changed dramatically, so try to remember to be kind and understanding during these times. It's more important than ever to try and finish out the semester strong, so download the schedule below, alter it for your needs, share it with your friends, and comment below how it works for you! While you're at it, follow my pre-med study-instagram @melanin.in.premed to get more updates on MCAT studying, life as a pre-med, and more!
Check out the link to download your copy on my homepage!