How to Manage Your In-Person Return to CCNY
Words by Diana Sanchez
Graphic by Timofey Guz
If you feel overwhelmed with the return to in-person classes, you may have plenty of company at CCNY and other colleges in New York City. Many students are currently trying to figure out their self care plan, including the most effective ways to manage their workload.
Annisha, a sophomore at CCNY, suggests a personal reward system. Annisha said, “I tell myself if I do this homework assignment I’ll go out with my cousins, or if I study for a test I’ll watch some television” she pauses, “I actually don’t really deal with stress. I feel like I’m stressed all the time,” she adds.
Students at CCNY such as Adrian Barroso found it easier to prepare for exams and assignments when classes were remote. Adrian, a junior student, said, “in person classes are more fast paced and now you actually have to study for exams and actually come prepared to class. I’m managing it by doing work right after class so I won’t be unprepared and don't stress about it when the due date comes up.” Time management is more important than ever, because students can’t hide behind their zoom cameras anymore. The ability to work within the comforts of home made students feel relieved from the workload. In person classes took some time away.
Transitioning from online classes to mostly in person classes has brought back the public transportation commute for many college students. The commute to campus varies for each student. Eve Salazar, a freshman student at Fordham University says, “It’s not so bad for me, it takes me about thirty to forty minutes to get to school. But my classes are mostly in the afternoon. I would never take a morning class.” Students from all boroughs study at CCNY, so everyone has their own trek to campus.
Annisha said, “I knew it was gonna be hard. I live in Queens so it takes me almost 2 hours to get to and from school. I have to wake up early for 9:30 classes, which means I wake up at 5 or 5:30, leave my house at 6:40, and don't get to school till about 8:25. That's how it goes every morning. And it takes time away from studying.”
As some students were experiencing, remote work allowed them more autonomy over their work environments and schedule. According to Mckinsey, “The return to in-person work and socialization for some in mid-2021 represents a major shift in daily experience… individuals may fear the next chapter of work will mean reduced autonomy and less supportive environments.”
According to a study done by MedAlertHelp about stress, “burnout is recognized as a chronic condition by the World Health Organization.” Some stress management tips that could alleviate and avoid burnout is to get enough sleep. Set your phone aside on “do not disturb” about an hour before bed to unwind. Read a book, meditate, and/or journal. If you are having trouble sleeping, melatonin gummies can be helpful. These practices are vital to mental health and sanity. Prioritizing a good night’s sleep can help prevent a stressed out, snappy mood and could help you complete your school work to the best of your ability. According to Forbes, “By taking even small steps each and every day, you’ll work toward restoring your mental, physical, and emotional strength.”
