Academics—Time Management Tips
Time management is a skill that many college students struggle with, particularly around midterms and finals when assignments and exams are due. Managing time wisely not only makes tasks more approachable, but can decrease feelings of stress and anxiety. Here are some time management tips to share with your student:
- Set goals each morning so you know exactly what needs to be accomplished that day.
- Establish a routine and stick to it.
- Schedule breaks and down time. Participating in activities or working out will help you focus during work time.
- Use time between classes wisely. It can be easy to waste time in between classes by scrolling on your phone or napping, but those hours add up!
- Use a calendar or download a time management app to keep track of all classes, assignments, study times, activities, jobs, etc.
- Create a to-do list. Whether electronic or on paper, the satisfaction of crossing off items can be motivating.
Conversation starters
- How often do you set goals for yourself? Daily? Weekly?
- How do you spend your time when you have a long break between classes?
- What system do you use to keep track of your schedule and appointments?
- What time of day are you the most productive?
Campus Engagement—Spirituality and Religious Life
Students come to campus from a variety of religious and spiritual traditions. Many will seek out the support and shared values of the religious community with which they identify while others may explore new traditions and communities. Although it might be difficult for you to see your student explore spirituality and religious expressions different from your own family history, keep in mind that college is a time for your student to learn about the world. Improving religious literacy can often help students deepen their root faith and gain cultural competencies that will serve them well in the workplace and life.
If your student is seeking a familiar or new religious or spiritual community, direct them to Spirituality and Religious Life.
Conversation starters
- Have you attended any services this year at RIT?
- Are there any religious/spiritual clubs that seem interesting to you?
- What have you learned about other religions or cultures this year?
Campus Life—Dining Locations
Let’s be honest—college dining has a bad reputation, no matter the school. When your student complains to you about dining options on campus, remember that they are likely just venting, and it’s easy to get tired of a place if you are eating there multiple times a week! There are several dining options at RIT, and you can help your student find variety when they’re in a mealtime rut. There are options for a quick coffee break, convenience store needs, grab and go sandwiches, salads, etc., and dining halls that offer a variety of regular and rotating options. On the RIT Dining website, you and your student can find locations, hours, and daily menus. Did you know we even have a registered dietician
to help your student navigate health and allergen information and options?
Last year, Parent and Family Programs staff shared our experiences with campus dining through our video series Eat Around RIT which you can find on our YouTube channel
or Facebook page. You can follow RIT Dining on social media on Facebook or Instagram.
Conversation starters
- What is your favorite coffee shop on campus and why?
- What dining locations haven’t you gone to this year?
- Have you ever tried [insert location here]?
- Did you know there are visiting chefs from local restaurants on campus weekly?
Wellness—BakerFIT
RIT provides students with access to three fitness facilities on campus-the Wiedman Fitness Center, our main gym located in the center of campus in the Student Life Center, the smaller Global Village gym on the academic side of campus, and our brand-new 24-hour facility, BakerFIT, located on the dorm side of campus. One of the great things about BakerFIT is that students do not even need to go outside to get there! It is housed in the tunnels of Baker Hall, and accessible from the dorms via the tunnel system. This facility has cardio machines, weight machines, a large selection of dumbbells, and a private studio room that can be reserved in advance or on a walk-in basis. The studio room is equipped with a large screen TV that students can use to hook up their laptop and stream a workout class, or just get together with a small group of friends to exercise in the space together. BakerFIT is a perfect place to get in short workout between classes, to hit up in the off hours when the Wiedman Fitness Center is closed, or the perfect place to go if your student prefers a facility with smaller crowds and more privacy!
Conversation Starters:
- Have you had the chance to visit any of the fitness facilities on campus?
- How do you make time in your schedule to get some exercise in?
- Did you know there is a fitness facility located right in the dorms?
