The more routine a student’s schedule, the better, a former counselor told SE Campus students last week.

Joyce Fisher outlined the importance of goal setting and time management in college during a seminar Sept. 1 for Fall Learning Skills Week.

“Routine is really what helps you get structure,” she said.

Fisher said well-defined goals and time management go hand-in-hand with self-responsibility. This means eliminating common time-busters such as starting and stopping.

“You’ve just got to do what you’ve got to do to eliminate those distractions,” she said.

Many college students are guilty of trying to do everything perfectly, another time-buster Fisher mentioned in the seminar.

“You have to learn to be satisfied with OK,” she said.

Fisher encouraged students to stay organized, which can save a great deal of time otherwise spent on looking for things they might need. She said to-do lists also help keep a student’s mind organized.

Students participated in a colored-pencil activity where they colored sections of a weekly calendar according to their sleeping, eating and studying patterns and also the times that were occupied with class and work.

“Color helps you stay organized and know what you’re reaching for,” Fisher said.

Fisher also suggested that students prioritize. She told students not to schedule road trips or company around mid-terms or finals.

“Always do the ugliest task first,” she said.

Studying habits were another issue Fisher discussed, telling students to study when they are most alert. Last-minute cramming can lead to a scattered brain and reduced alertness, she said. Also, prime-time, short sessions of studying are three times more effective than long marathons, Fisher said.

“When you get done, reward yourself,” Fisher said.

Free TCC planners along with copies of important dates throughout the fall and spring semesters were provided at the seminar. Fisher told students to use the planner and to schedule “start” deadlines three weeks before “due” deadlines.

Fisher told students to visualize graduation. She suggested they find a good mentor and surround themselves with positive influences.

“Always stay positive. Hang out with people who believe in you,” she said.

Fisher retired last week from the advising and counseling center after having been with TCC for 20 years. She said she will return part-time in the near future.