FULL-TIME STUDENT

Building Your Quarter Schedule

When registering for classes, think strategically. Do you currently have a schedule that allows you to pick your favorite classes regardless of the time/day or are you running on a tight schedule despite being a full-time student? My best advice is to schedule your hardest classes during your most productive hours/days and balance coursework to avoid overload (don’t take 3 classes in one day simply because “you can”). With DePaul’s quarter system, the classes run quickly so you want to have as much time allocated to each one from week to week. This quarter, my schedule is set up meticulously so that I can work and head to class seamlessly. One caveat is having to ensure I self-manage and allocate time to get assignments done after my day is “done”.

Weighing Your Options
Online classes, hybrid models, or evening courses can offer flexibility. If you’re balancing work, look for class times that complement your job schedule. Talk to your advisor about course load recommendations based on your commitments and see if you can build your optimal schedule. I have made sure to pick classes based on my requirements, but all have been a mix of “fun” (such as my Sports Sponsorship Marketing class) and core classes (such as my 300-level Management class).

Ideally, you want to take advantage of classes that occur once per year, especially if they cover a part of your required credits (other than any electives). For me, that “once per year” class was Professor Andy Clark’s “Sports Sponsorship Marketing” class mentioned above. I am beyond happy I took the chance of picking it despite getting put on the waitlist for enrollment. I left my schedule for enrollment open just in case I was enrolled from the waitlist, despite being able to simply secure another required class—I weighed the options, took the chance, and it paid off!

Tools to Stay on Track

Planners
Digital or paper planners help track assignments, work shifts, and deadlines (yes, even sushi day with friends!). A simple weekly planner with hourly slots allows you to plan as specifically or broadly as needed. Having an overview of upcoming responsibilities prevents overwhelm and is essential for balancing a full college schedule!

Calendar Work
Sync your school and work commitments into Google Calendar or other scheduling apps. Color-code different responsibilities (classes, work, study sessions) to easily visualize your time. This is a crucial part of staying accountable as a college student. Keeping your digital and physical planners aligned ensures you stay on top of responsibilities while also giving you a built-in reminder system. I like to set phone alerts like “Check your planner” to keep myself on track—P.S. It works!

Time Blocking and Focus Methods
I use the Pomodoro Technique, a productivity method that, when paired with time blocking (dedicating a set time in your calendar for deep focus), becomes a powerful tool for staying on track with assignments. The technique involves working for 25 minutes, taking a 5-minute break, then repeating the cycle. After four rounds, you take a longer 15-minute break.

This structured approach helps you focus on specific goals rather than just trying to “power through” your work. Breaking tasks into chunks makes them more manageable. Scheduling dedicated study, work, and personal time also prevents burnout. And if you can’t make it to sushi night with friends—there’s always next time!