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In the Internet Age of today, we often find that it’s rather difficult to stay focused. We go about our days, tending to responsibilities, maintaining relationships and concentrating on furthering our minds. However, at the end of the day, we often wonder where we may have gone wrong in the midst of it all: Was there more to be done? Did I take sufficient notes in my classes? When was that project due, again?
Staying focused on any given task in the moment proves difficult for our constantly connected selves. Our phones take priority, keeping us in tune with the whereabouts of our friends (as well as our “acquaintances”) and the events of the world. While working or in class, we have our eyes fixated on our computer screens, whether we’re typing away or stuck in the dark hole that is the Internet.
How can we find focus with such consuming technology all around us? Here are a few ways to be more attentive:
Disconnect.
First and foremost, let’s disconnect, people! When we’re in class, if the Internet is not required, don’t connect to the WiFi – it’s a simple as that! Focus on the task at hand or the lecture being taught and watch the detail of your notes significantly improve. Also while in class, or even while having conversation, put the phone away! There is no necessity for your cell phone while having a conversation with another individual or while trying to learn in the classroom.
Be a sponge.
When having conversation, soak up everything the person is saying. Test yourself; see how well you actually listen. Being a good listener is an admirable and respected quality to portray. No only will this improve your own skills as a conversationalist, it will also keep you more in tune with what the person is saying; thus, you learn more.
Make eye contact.
Also while in conversation or while learning in the classroom, make eye contact with whoever is speaking. While making eye contact is common courtesy, it also ensures to the speaker and to yourself that your attention is focused solely on him or her. When you make eye contact, you simply cannot pay mind to any outside factors.
Ask questions.
During lectures, it will improve your attentiveness and learning ability to ask several questions. Don’t understand something? Don’t be afraid to inquire! You should be focused on furthering your learning during your time spent in the classroom, not on social media or any other distracting factors.
Set small, short-term goals.
Whether you’re working or completing weekly assignments, when you set small, short-term goals for yourself, you are more likely to complete said tasks. For example, while studying, implore yourself to run through your stack of flashcards at least three times within the next 45 minutes. Or, while at work, you might set a goal for yourself to complete that time sensitive task by 11am. When you prepare ahead of time, your chances of productivity greatly increase.
Being accepted to Plaza College was an exciting moment in my life. It allowed me to achieve my goal; to complete a Bachelor's in the Business Administration program. Plaza College professors and administrative staff are dedicated to helping students to be successful in their endeavors.
“My mother graduated from Plaza. My father graduated from Plaza. My brother graduated from Plaza. I graduated from Plaza. We are very proud of our educational background.”
"Being a student at Plaza College has paved a new road of achievement towards a successful career in Medical Assisting for me. My time here has been filled with academic accomplishments on things I didn't think I could do! Plaza College is your career starter!"
“Professor Warmouth has always gone above and beyond in supporting what I need to do, whether it’s for her class or another in the program. She’s taught me additional skills on top of what we learn.”
“Everyone you meet here supports your career trajectory in one way or another. Dr. Anderson told me you have to know what you want and be on your ‘p’s and q’s.’ I realized I had to focus and buckle down on my studies to be successful. “
“I went to another school that didn’t give me the care and personal attention the way Plaza College does. They truly care about me becoming a better person."
"The Court Reporting Faculty at Plaza College has helped me in so many way. Even after I graduated, I have still been in touch with all of them and they have helped me with job placement and test taking!"
"I am currently in my last semester of the Medical Assistant Program. Our last semester comes with an externship component, where we demonstrate all the skills we learned at Plaza College. I strongly feel that Plaza College has prepared me with both my clinical and clerical skills."
"My admissions advisor guided me, set up appointments and sat with me through the process. Other schools simply threw the requirements at me, but at Plaza I received personal attention.”
“Academically, teachers are always willing to help you and will stay longer after the classes. They are responsive over email and you can always go to the Academic Resource Center (ARC) for extra support.”
“Being a single parent and coming back to school after a good amount of time was definitely a challenge and the professors have been willing and easy to communicate with. If I’m having a difficult situation, need some flexibility or need clarification, they’ve been easy to reach out to with no hesitation."
“The hands-on training has been a tremendous help in preparing me for my externship. Everything I was taught in all my clinical classes was exactly what I was able to use in my externship and more. The skills that I learned at Plaza College will help me in all of my future endeavors.”
“I chose Plaza College because I wanted to be in an accelerated program, where I am able to commit full-time, and start working as a dental hygienist much faster. One thing I can truly say is that the administration, staff, and the new long-life friends that you make here will help you get through all the obstacles one step at a time!
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