The Art of Time Management: Being a Ph.D. Student

During my time here at the University of Tennessee, I have come to some conclusions about being a Ph.D. student. 🙂  First and foremost– as a Ph.D. student, you get to do a lot of work (of course!)  I would say that I have done more reading, writing, and research so far this semester than a year of 5 classes in my undergraduate program.  It’s been a very interesting and fun experience, I have really enjoyed my time so far here at UT! 🙂

The other lesson that I have learned during this semester deals with time– Ph.D. students really keep themselves busy with work, research, teaching, and school.  The challenge is to make sure that you manage it accordingly.   I am taking 13 units this semester, which is more than I took when I was at USC for my Master’s– it keeps me pretty busy! 🙂  Although we have many projects and tests for our classes, you do have to take the time to relax and catch your breath.  Here are a few tips that I have learned so far during my time at UT:

• Excercise is always a good way to get you energized:  Since I am no longer throwing and have been on Jenny Craig for a year (woo hoo!), my workout routines have been different.  I am doing a lot more running (gasp!  A former thrower that runs??!!) :), and going on the stairmaster.  I try to do this everyday, and if I am working on a project and need a break, exercise is a great activity to do! 🙂
• If you know you have a busy week coming up, try to get some projects and assignments done early:  This has really been helpful for me– I try to get ahead in my classes on the weekend so I can focus on some of my larger projects.
• Make To-do Lists:  I have always done this for school, but the difference now is that I have multiple ones.  I have one on my Treo Phone, one at my desk, and another that I have with my notes for classes.  I sometimes put things on my lists so I can check them off and be like– go me!  I got something done today! 🙂
• After completing an assignment, reward yourself! :):  I totally do this– if this means going to the spa, watching your favorite team play football (by the way, congrats USC for being Notre Dame yesterday– awesome game!!!), watching your favorite TV show (love Stargate!), or shop (got to look fabulous)!  You need to treat yourself for working hard! 🙂

Anyway, these are just a few of my thoughts.  Well, I better get back to writing my paper, but I hope you all are having a great day! 🙂

Best Wishes,

Karen