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Emiko Patterson: Expert Guidance on College Time Management Tips and Strategies


Time Management Tips and Strategies
Emiko Patterson, the director of the college program at Untapped Learning, has a wealth of experience in helping college students improve time management.

With a background guiding hundreds of students across more than 50 universities, Emiko is uniquely positioned to understand the challenges students face and provide strategies that work. In this interview, she shares her insights and practical advice for managing time effectively in college.

College Time Management Challenges: Transitioning from High School to College

Transitioning from the structured environment of high school to the open landscape of college can feel like stepping onto another planet. 

The familiarity of bells, assigned homework, and parental oversight is replaced by a lot of freedom—along with the responsibility of managing it. For many students, this shift can be disorienting, leading to struggles with time management that they didn’t anticipate.

Why Time Management Is So Challenging in College

Having worked with students from many universities, Emiko has a unique perspective on why time management is such a common struggle. The newfound freedom that comes with college can quickly become overwhelming without the right skills.

“Students are excited to be making new friends and exploring new opportunities,” Emiko explains, “but that freedom becomes a double-edged sword when they haven’t developed the skills to manage their time effectively.”

In high school, schedules are set, and assignments are closely monitored. In college, the responsibility of deciding when and how to complete work, manage free time, and seek help falls squarely on students’ shoulders—often leading to procrastination, stress, and missed deadlines.

Importance of study spaces

The Power of Study Environment and Support in College Success

Emiko shared the story of Sarah, a bright student who struggled with procrastination. They met at a coffee shop—a change of scenery that ended up being what Sarah needed. Initially, Sarah thought she needed help with the content itself, but it turned out she just needed an environment that supported focus and productivity.

“Sometimes, it’s not about what you’re studying but where and how you’re doing it,” Emiko says. “Changing your study environment can break the cycle of procrastination and help you get into a productive mindset.” For Sarah, simply shifting to a more conducive study space made all the difference.

Collaboration and Peer Support for Effective Time Management

Another student, Maria, faced anxiety over a difficult chemistry report. Instead of struggling alone, Maria decided to attend office hours with peers and the teaching assistant. This collaborative environment transformed a daunting task into a manageable one, and her anxiety began to decrease.

“Students often struggle not because they’re not capable, but because they haven’t yet mastered managing their time and environment,” Emiko emphasizes. Being surrounded by others who are also working can provide a sense of camaraderie and accountability.

Emiko’s Top 3 College Time Management Tips for Students

Watch the video here to see Emiko explain these tips in more detail.

To help break the cycle of procrastination and stress, Emiko shares her top time management tips for college students:

1. Make Use of “Between-Time” to Boost Productivity

The seemingly insignificant gaps between classes are hidden productivity treasures. Instead of heading home and getting sidetracked on social media, stay on campus and knock out a quick reading assignment or review your notes.

“If you have an hour between classes, it might feel too short to start anything significant, but that’s exactly where students can gain an edge,” Emiko says. These small, consistent efforts add up and reduce the workload that piles up at the end of the day.

2. Break Large Tasks into Smaller Steps for Better Time Management

A big research paper can feel overwhelming, leading to procrastination. Instead, Emiko advises breaking it down into smaller, manageable tasks—like “brainstorm topics,” “find five sources,” and “write an outline.” Tracking these steps using digital planners or apps can create a sense of progress and motivation.

“When you break tasks into smaller pieces, you start to see progress, and that progress is motivating,” she notes. “The key is to celebrate small wins, which builds confidence and makes larger projects more achievable.” Setting mini-deadlines for each step can also help maintain momentum and create a sense of urgency.

3. Embrace the Messy Middle for Growth and Resilience

College is a journey of self-discovery, and it’s natural to make mistakes. Emiko encourages students to step outside their comfort zones—whether by attending office hours or asking classmates for help.

“The messy middle is where real growth happens,” she says. “Learning to navigate setbacks, whether it’s a poor grade on a test or a failed attempt at joining a club, helps students build resilience.” She emphasizes that the key is to view challenges as opportunities to learn and adapt.

Building a College Support System for Time Management

Emiko stresses the important role of having a strong support system. “The difference between students who have someone to check in with and those who try to navigate everything alone is enormous,” she says.

College can feel isolating, especially for students used to parental or teacher support. Without a network, it’s easy to fall into patterns of procrastination or feel overwhelmed by the workload.

The Importance of Peer Groups, Mentors, and Coaching

Support can come from peer study groups, trusted mentors, or academic advisors. Emiko also highlights the value of an executive function coach.

“Having someone who understands how to help you structure your time, set realistic goals, and stay accountable can be a game-changer,” she says. “It’s not about doing the work for you—it’s about providing the tools and support you need to succeed.”

Success Story: Ian’s Transformation with Peer Support

Emiko recalls Ian, a student who struggled during his first semester. He was hesitant to seek help but eventually connected with a peer group and an academic advisor. “Once Ian had people to check in with, he felt more accountable and motivated. He realized he wasn’t alone, and that made all the difference,” Emiko says.

Using Campus Resources to Improve Time Management

Emiko urges students to take advantage of campus resources like tutoring centers, writing labs, and mental health services. “The best students are the ones who aren’t afraid to use these resources,” she says. “Asking for help shows commitment to success, not weakness.”

Actionable College Time Management Steps for Students

Here’s a quick summary of Emiko’s strategies for effective time management:

  1. Use “Between-Time” Effectively: Use gaps between classes to tackle small tasks. Small efforts lead to big gains and more free time to enjoy campus later. 
  1. Break Down Large Tasks: Split overwhelming projects into smaller steps. Use planners to track and set mini-deadlines.
  1. Change Your Study Environment: If stuck, study in a different location like a coffee shop or library to break procrastination.
  1. Seek Collaboration: Join peer study groups, use help rooms, and ask for assistance when needed.
  1. Build a Support Network: Connect with mentors, advisors, or an executive function coach for guidance.
  1. Use Campus Resources: Leverage tutoring, writing labs, and mental health services—asking for help is a strength.
  1. Embrace Setbacks: View challenges as learning opportunities. Take risks, attend office hours, and grow beyond comfort zones.
Taking the Next Step with College Success Coaching

If you’re ready to help your student navigate college life with confidence, schedule a free consultation today and see how Untapped Learning can ease the transition to college and help students reach their goals. College can be challenging, but with the right strategies and support, every student can reach their goals.

Interview With Emiko

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