Workshop Draft
Maximizing Your College Experience: Balancing Academics and Personal Growth at UNE
From effective study techniques to finding the ideal study space, UNE students share how they succeed academically while enjoying campus life
University Student
Sydney Bishop
February 21, 2025
Coming to college is an exciting experience—new environment, new people, and often, more free time. But how should you use this free time? For students at the University of New England (UNE), it’s all about balancing academics and personal growth, while diving into the community’s supportive study atmosphere.
UNE fosters a strong environment for learning, encouraging students to use effective study techniques and make the most of academic resources like the Student Academic Success Center (SASC). To dive deeper into what UNE offers for academic success, faculty and staff shared their insights into how they guide students through their learning journey.
What support does UNE offer for studying, developing writing/research skills, and getting help with homework? As Bethany Woodworth (she/her), Professor of Environmental Studies, emphasizes, “Something that students should learn is not study technique but an attitude that ‘I am in college now and I am responsible for my learning. I am teaching myself and my teacher is my guide and support.’” This mindset is echoed by professors and staff at SASC.
SASC has much to offer, and Dr. Eric Drown (he/him), Assistant Director of SASC, spoke about ensuring that students receive the best help, especially first-year students. He referenced Teach Yourself How to Learn by Saundra Yancy McGuire and Stephanie McGuire, which outlines six study techniques. However, Dr. Drown emphasized that SASC’s goal is to help students become self-taught learners who can continue learning independently after they leave campus: “That will be your whole life and career, being able to learn the things you need to learn without somebody teaching them to you.”
So, how do students at UNE study, given their various majors and backgrounds? They get into the right mindset for studying, choose their preferred study space, and decide whether to study alone or with others.
“To get into the mindset of studying, I usually like to start my day by being a little productive with something other than schoolwork, like making breakfast or going for a walk,” says Julia Hobbs (she/her), a sophomore Marine Science major. While this is one way to prepare, many students find that having a drink helps them focus.
Next, you’ve got to pick the right spot! Whether on campus or off, finding your ideal study space is key to getting into the right mindset. Off-campus spots like Elements Coffee and Bookstore offer a cozy atmosphere, while on-campus study rooms in the library or the first floor of Commons are great alternatives.
Emma McPherson (she/her), a junior Nursing major, notes, “I use concept maps, which are very helpful, and I usually study with my friends on the Portland Campus.”
The next question: Do you study with a group or alone? UNE students employ a variety of methods to get into the zone. Some prefer quiet solo study spots, while others thrive in group settings.
Bella Parks (she/her), a sophomore Marine Science major, and Shanae Varghese (she/her), a sophomore Neuroscience major, both prefer studying in groups. “Bouncing ideas off friends and teaching each other helps us understand the material better,” they agree. While Bella enjoys studying in the comfort of her bed, Shanae prefers sitting at the high tops in Commons.
Whether you study alone or with friends, whether you need a quiet corner or a bustling café, everyone finds their rhythm. What’s your preferred method for getting the most out of your study time?
