Penn State World Campus students have access to a wide range of tools that can help them stay organized, be more productive, and study more efficiently. We asked a group of current students to discuss their favorite tools and share their best tips for time management and work/life balance.
Favorite tools and resources
“One of my favorite resources as a student has been the Penn State World Campus Library [Penn State University Libraries], which offers extensive online databases and research tools that are indispensable for academic work. Additionally, productivity tools like Trello and Google Calendar have been game-changers for staying organized and managing my time effectively. Trello helps in tracking assignments and breaking down larger projects into manageable tasks, while Google Calendar keeps all my deadlines and commitments in one place with reminders. Apps like Evernote have been excellent for note-taking and keeping all my study materials organized and accessible from anywhere. These tools collectively have streamlined my study process and significantly enhanced my productivity.” —Deja Bryant, Bachelor of Science in Political Science
“I rely very heavily on Canvas, the learning app that Penn State uses. Keeping on top of the assignments and notifications from instructors on there saves a lot of time. I haven’t encountered any instructors yet that do not post weekly reminders of what is expected of you in that week.” —Erin Robertson, Bachelor of Science in Psychology
“Student Home Base [in LionPATH], Canvas, and LionLink have made things beyond easier and more accessible as a student. I also love working with my PSU homecoming crew. We Are!” —Ryan Bitner, Bachelor of Science in Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management
“The University resources that truly transformed my education were found at the Penn State World Campus Student Center. This center helped me grasp various concepts I might not have learned otherwise, such as financial literacy, course work strategies, and pathways to success. It also provided opportunities for involvement and personal growth, making a significant impact on my educational journey.” —Kaitlyn Casagrande, Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
“I love being able to have the Canvas app on my phone. I enjoy being able to check discussion posts and having the to-do list available when I do not have my planner in front of me. I also like having the notification on my phone whenever an assignment is graded.” —Gina Bakey, Bachelor of Science in Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management
“The library is one of my favorite resources, along with its fantastic staff. I also enjoy the PSU and Canvas apps. Outside of the University, I would highly recommend Evernote. It is my go-to app for organizing all web resources, even lectures!” —Conette Burney, Bachelor of Science in Integrated Social Sciences
Tips for managing time and creating work/life balance
“I found that doing all the readings throughout the week while I worked and then doing bigger assignments on my days off gave me enough time to finish everything on time. This also gave me free time to have fun each week.” —Christopher Witthaut, Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering
“Be transparent with those around you that are involved with your scheduling. Wait to do your work in a quiet area for an hour or two a night, sometimes a lot more time will be needed. So, try to create an understanding with your loved ones and your employer.” —Ryan Bitner
“It is important to always have a schedule! Set a time when you will do your course work and assignments and when you will be away from your computer. It is important to maintain a work/life balance to do school and still make time to have a social life.” —Gina Bakey
“Utilizing time management techniques can increase productivity while focusing on one task at a time helps improve the quality of work. Staying organized with tools like to-do lists and digital apps is essential, as is taking care of yourself through proper sleep, nutrition, and exercise. Something more important than I realized was setting boundaries between study time, work, and personal time, and communicating these boundaries. By doing this, it can minimize interruptions. Seeking support from University resources and being flexible in adjusting your schedule is also crucial. Leveraging technology for time management, practicing mindfulness, and incorporating stress management techniques further enhance your ability to balance responsibilities effectively while maintaining mental clarity.” —Kaitlyn Casagrande
“Managing time and creating a work/life balance as a student requires intentional planning and discipline. Start by setting a consistent daily and weekly schedule that allocates specific blocks of time for studying, attending classes, working, and relaxing. Prioritize tasks using a to-do list or a planner, focusing first on urgent and important assignments. Break larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Incorporate regular breaks and downtime into your routine to prevent burnout. Using productivity techniques like the Pomodoro method can enhance focus and efficiency. Importantly, set boundaries to separate study time from personal time, ensuring that you also make time for hobbies, social activities, and self-care. Maintaining this balance helps sustain long-term productivity and well-being.” —Deja Bryant
“I am a wife and stepmother of two teenagers, with a full-time job and taking a full-time course load. I haven’t found that balance yet, but I love what I’m learning and the community that I’m becoming a part of, so it’s worth the sacrifices that are being made by not only myself but my spouse, as well. Don’t forget to appreciate the others in your life as well as attempting to make time for yourself!” —Erin Robertson
Related content:
- Time management calendar — this tool can help you get an idea of what your typical week may look like depending on the number of credits you take (or plan to take)
- Course work and success — explore World Campus resources to help you succeed in your courses
