So many decisions to make, so much to do, deadlines all around: schoolwork, extracurricular activities, sports, internships… So much to accomplish, but you don’t know how to fit it all in. How can you manage your time for maximum success?
We’ve got three simple secrets to get you on the right track.
#1: Work smarter, not necessarily harder – take time out to plan and organize
At Blue Stars we don’t tell students to “just work harder!” That won’t help. Figuring out how to maximize your study time will.
It can take a leap of faith to carve out time to plan and get organized. But this is a HUGE factor in students’ success, both in school and for the rest of their lives.
#2: Use the right tools
Where do you start? Let’s face it — sometimes it can be stressful just figuring out HOW to make yourself less stressed.
Blue Stars really feels for students, given all the expectations placed on them. We’ve devoted a lot of time to helping students stay organized and manage all the demands on their time.
Below are some of our favorite Time Management Tools. We use these every day! Read through the guide, pick your favorites, and try them out. Before you know it, you’ll have a much better productive flow.
#3: Create a support system
Staying on track can be rough for all of us, even with the right tools.
That’s why a great support system is important — people with experience to help you stay on track, set the right priorities, and solve tough time-management problems.
Get an “accountability partner” in your corner — a parent, adult mentor, experienced Blue Stars counselor — and set up regular times to meet. We suggest once or twice each month.
The key is to create accountability — get someone to help you come up with a plan to keep you calm, focused and confident.
Suggested Steps for Success
- Read our Time Management Tools below
- Pick 2 favorites
- Week 1: use one tool all week. Set a phone alarm to remind you
- Week 2: add a second tool
- Set up “Check-in Meetings” with an experienced adult to help you stay on track
If you decide you might like the support of an expert college counselor, Blue Stars will be happy to give you a free in-depth assessment.
Resources to help teens and their families navigate the college admission process
Our collection of stories, interviews, and tips provides insight and strategies to navigate the complex college planning and application process.
Learn, be inspired, and cultivate personal growth. From campus tours to interviews with former Blue Start students, choose the video that resonates with your personal journey.
Join us in our next webinar about college prep and other college related themes.
Free Workbook for Students
Start today! Go through these strategic exercises to help you sketch out your plans for all four years of high school.
- Learn key traits important to top colleges.
- Write your first personal narrative
- Branch out, exploring interests and defining activities.
- Set goals and create your 4-year college planning timeline.

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