by Chloe Powell
First-year student Sierra Oesterling studies in her favorite position.
Being able to concentrate while studying for a test or staying focused while chugging through a long day of homework is crucial for college students’ success.
Although most students can agree that studying is important, students are divided about which methods are best. University of Virginia psychology professor Daniel Willingham said in a 2016 Washington Post article that 66% of students don’t leave college for financial reasons. According to his research, they drop out because don’t know how to study.
Many college students listen to relaxing music, use a study room, chew gum or create flashcards. However, there are some college students who have more unusual study habits. The following habits might seem strange or counterproductive to studying, but these students have found the methods that work best for them.
One of those is first-year student Sierra Oesterling, who enjoys studying while lying on her back and hoisting her legs up vertically against the wall. Many people might find this position uncomfortable, but Oesterling said it helps her concentrate.
Another study habit the average student may find unusual is listening to Mario Cart music. First-year Abby Ernst enjoys the upbeat tempo of Mario Cart music, even though it is not likely on the average student’s study playlist.
Junior Madelyn Sheldon, an art major, has a unique method for concentrating in class while remembering key words in the lecture. The method is called ‘notes art’ and arranges words in the form of a drawing. The goal is not necessarily to make the notes legible but merely to remember key concepts through hand memory while also creating art.
Amy Siegel, senior academic adviser in the Student Success Center, said: “College is challenging. It does not get easier. Serious students just get better at it. Learning effective study skills is a part of utilizing time management skills. Students who prioritize academic success learn early that studying is necessary for academic success.”
All students must find study methods that work well for them, and while some approaches might look strange to outsiders, ultimately, grades matter more than what others might think of unusual study habits, Oesterling, Ernst, and Sheldon said.
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