Here at Keuka College, you’ll find a close-knit community that’s ready to provide support and encouragement at every step. That includes your professors, student services professionals, and classmates, whether you’re studying on campus or online.
In that spirit, we asked a few of our stellar online and graduate students to share some words of wisdom about how they keep everything in balance. Here’s what they had to say:
Get Organized
“Try to plan everything out – write down what’s due for the week ahead so you don’t forget.”
–Kristeen Frazier ’26
Between class assignments, work deadlines, and your grocery list, you can’t expect to remember everything – even if you’ve got a first-rate brain like Dean’s List awardee Kristeen.
Whether you live on your smartphone or you’re more of a sticky note person, it’s wise to take a few minutes every Monday morning to create a structured to-do list. You’ll start the week off with confidence – and you’ll feel a real sense of accomplishment every time you check off an item!
Stay Focused
“Keep your head in the game! It’s easy to get distracted, but remember why you’re doing this.”
–Samantha Piland ’26
If you’ve ever struggled to focus on schoolwork while getting pinged with emails or pestered by children – you’re not alone! (Just ask Samantha or dozens of other scholar–parent–professionals here at KC.) One smart strategy for overcoming distraction is the Pomodoro Technique:
1. Set a timer for 25 minutes (ask Google, or ask a kid to serve as timekeeper)
2. Work on one task.
3. When the timer rings, take five minutes to check your phone or check in on the family.
4. Reset and repeat.
5. After four pomidori (yes, that’s the correct plural), give yourself a longer break to recharge.
Speak Up
“Communication is key – I have never experienced the level of understanding and patience that I have here at Keuka College.”
–Kara Oliveri ’25
Consciously or not, many of us have absorbed the lesson that being strong means being silent. For some, it’s because they’ve had the experience of asking for help and being met with indifference, judgement, or ridicule.
As Kara has learned, Keuka College is a place where no one is expected to navigate challenges alone. Whether you’re confused about an assignment, stressed about work, or carrying a personal burden, there’s always someone to lend an attentive ear and a helping hand.
Practice Self-Care
“Set aside a small amount of time for you – whether it’s painting your nails or eating cookies before bed.”
–Dayna Edholm M’25
When your schedule is packed, self-care might seem like a luxury you can’t afford. In reality, it’s something you can’t afford to neglect. Like Dayna says, even small intentional acts can make a big difference for your physical and emotional wellness, helping you show up as your best self in all areas of your life.
If nailcare and baked goods aren’t your thing, take a short walk outside (“touch grass,” as the youngsters say) to clear your mind and rest your eyes. Recent research suggests that sunlight and greenery engages your brain in “soft fascination,” allowing it to recover from being digitally overstimulated.
READY TO TAKE THE PLUNGE?
As a leader in online learning grounded in the liberal arts tradition, Keuka College offers a range of bachelor’s and master’s degree programs built for busy working adults. Explore your options and take the next step today.
