Commuting doesn't have to be a waste of time! With clever strategies, I use my daily trip to university effectively to study, relax and organize my tasks.
Use commute time cleverly: From train to study power!
As a student who commutes to university by train, train and bus every day, I quickly realized that I could and must make better use of this time instead of just looking out the window. Here are a few strategies to help me make commuting time meaningful.
I often use the train to prepare for lectures and seminars. It's very easy:
Read the lecture notes: I download all necessary files onto my laptop and roughly go through the materials. Especially with longer scientific texts, this helps you to be able to follow the common thread more easily during lectures.
Take notes: With a note-taking app, I record important points. Sometimes I come up with new ideas and questions while driving, which I can then write down immediately.
Use Learnboost: With Learnboost, I make preparing for lectures even easier and especially when it comes to the exam, there is nothing better than using the study mode and my index cards again to be well prepared for the exams.
Another big advantage of commuting time is that I can use it to broaden my horizons:
Listen to podcasts: I love listening to podcasts about topics that interest me or those that are relevant to my field of study. This keeps learning exciting!
audiobooks: When I need a break from active learning, I like to listen to audio books that open up new perspectives for me or simply let me dive into distant worlds.
Networking is important these days, even during commuting time:
Emails and messages: I use the time to answer emails or communicate with fellow students. Sometimes we clarify group work or ask for notes. It also prevents my inbox from being painfully flooded.
LinkedIn: Yes indeed! I check my LinkedIn profile from time to time and connect with others who might be of interest to my career. Especially when you're looking for a job, it can be helpful to maintain an appealing LinkedIn profile.
Commuting is not only a time to learn, but also an opportunity to relax:
Listen to music: Whether Spotify, Apple Music or YouTube Premium, listening to music relaxes and makes me forget the hustle and bustle around me even on a stressful train journey.
Keep a journal: Sometimes I keep a journal to record my thoughts and ideas. This encourages my creativity and takes me away from just writing notes.
I've found that good planning is essential for a productive day:
To-do lists: I create to-do lists to keep track of my tasks. That way I know what I have to do and when.
Calendar checks: While driving, I also check my calendar so that I don't miss upcoming appointments and deadlines and make adjustments if necessary.
Commuting to university can actually be valuable time. Instead of thinking of them as lost minutes, I've learned to use them effectively. Regardless of whether I'm studying, relaxing, or simply planning — time on the train or on the train is anything but wasted. So, take on the challenge and make the most of your commute time!
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