5 Studying Tips for Neurodivergent College Students
College is a time of self-discovery, making new friends, and navigating the beginning of adulthood. College is also about acing your exams and courses, in creating a path to your future career success. For many students, academics can be challenging. In addition, adding the challenges of neurodivergence (i.e. comprehension difficulties, test anxiety, etc…) can make the experience almost unbearable.
As a pre-med undergraduate who LOVED biology, I could not understand why I was failing my classes. I studied diligently over 8 hours a day, did not socialize, and party. Why was I being punished? Besides, the internalized misogyny, I learned I was studying incorrectly towards my own study style and functionality. Below, I have composed a list of 5 studying tips for neurodivergent college students.
Get Inquisitive: To effectively study, you have to understand the material vs memorization. Take time to really learn the material through your textbooks and other sources (videos, additional books).
Know Your Limits: There is such a thing as overstudying. Set an amount of time that works for you (30 minutes-2 hours), schedule that time in. Do no more nor less.
Attend Office Hours: Office hours may seem intimidating, but it is an important part of the job. Attend office hours to ask questions and gain more direct insight from your professor.
Form a Study Group: There is strength in numbers. Plan a study date with your classmates or create a shared document where you can share study tips and notes.
Prioritize Your Body: Your body needs rest and nutrients to function. The night before your exam eat a healthy meal, get a good nights sleep, and take care of your body.
Infographic with 5 studying tips
