You’re a busy student. Between school, work, sports, extracurricular activities, a social life, and other responsibilities, it can be hard to balance everything at once, especially when you’re taking a full course load.

Fortunately, there’s another option. You don’t have to sacrifice the things you love for the credits you need. A self-paced online course through BYU Independent Study gives you the flexibility to learn where and when it works for you, at your own pace and with less pressure. Whether you need an extra course to graduate or you’re far away from campus, self-paced courses can help you take charge of your learning.

Flexibility and Control

With self-paced online learning, you can study when and where it works best for you. Do you have more time in the morning before work or practice? You can work on your coursework then. Perhaps you have a gap between classes. Use that time to make progress. Unlike traditional classes, you aren’t confined to a specific class schedule. You choose how your coursework fits into your life, not the other way around.

Learn at Your Own Pace

Some content will be more difficult, while other material may come easily. With self-paced courses, you can choose how long you spend on a topic. Move faster through material you already understand and take more time to work through difficult concepts. If life gets busy, you can adjust your pace. Unlike traditional semester-based classes, BYU Independent Study gives students up to 12 months to complete a course.

Less Stress and Pressure

Because self-paced courses give you more control over when you complete coursework, they can make it easier to manage your workload. Instead of keeping pace with a traditional class schedule, you can give yourself more time to prepare for assignments, projects, and exams.

Ready for more flexibility in your schedule? Register for a BYU Independent Study course today!

You’ve probably had a conversation where networking has come up. The saying, “It’s not what you know; it’s who you know,” has become especially relevant in recent years. Research suggests that as many as 80% of jobs are filled through networking, while 70% of jobs are never publicly posted on job boards.¹ Essentially, you may be more likely to land a job if you’ve built a strong network.

So, what is networking? Put simply, it’s connecting with and building relationships with others to make informed career decisions or create career opportunities.² Over time, building a strong network can help you advance your career and demonstrate qualities that aren’t necessarily reflected in a resume or cover letter.

Though networking can be beneficial for your career, it can also seem daunting. If you’re an introvert, reaching out to new people or sitting down with someone to learn more about what they do could push you out of your comfort zone. If you’re afraid of rejection, it might be even harder to venture into the unknown.

Here are seven networking tips to help you get started in the professional world.

Start with people you know.

Even if you don’t realize it, you probably already have an extensive network of family, friends, classmates, professors, and coworkers. Some of them may work in a field that interests you, while others may have connections with professionals in your desired field.

Because you already know them, starting a conversation may be much easier. Talking about your career goals can feel more natural when you’re already comfortable with someone.

Ask questions and show interest.

One of the great things about networking is that it doesn’t just mean marketing yourself to people you meet. When you have a conversation with someone new, take the time to learn about their career and experiences. Ask follow-up questions and seek advice from someone with experience in the field. Genuine curiosity can make you seem more authentic than simply trying to impress them.

Use LinkedIn.

LinkedIn is a social media platform designed for professional networking and employment opportunities. It’s a great online resource for making connections with classmates, professors, coworkers, and other professionals.

Find professionals in your field through people you’re already connected with and send them a message to introduce yourself. You can also follow companies and professionals to learn more about your desired career.

Go to smaller events.

Large career fairs and conferences can feel overwhelming. If attending one of these events sounds stressful, consider smaller workshops, panels, or career events where conversations may feel more genuine, deliberate, and relaxed. It can be easier to connect with new people when there are fewer people around.

Use your school’s alumni network.

Use your high school or college to your advantage by reaching out to people who graduated from there. You already have something in common, and many alumni may be more willing to offer advice because they were once in your shoes.³ Ask what they did during school and how they found success in their field.

Follow up.

After meeting with someone, send a quick message to thank them for their time. Mention something you took away from the conversation to show that you value the time they spent speaking with you. By staying in touch, you can turn one conversation into a connection that lasts.

Create relationships, not contacts.

The most important thing to remember when networking is that it’s about people, not checking a box or collecting names. Focus on building genuine connections and offering your help to others when appropriate. Building relationships will prove much more valuable in the future than having a list of people you’ve only spoken to once.

Sources:

1. Forbes Technology Council, “Networking: It’s Not What You Think”
2. Columbia University Center for Career Education, “What Is Networking and Why Do You Need to Do It?”
3. Pursue Networking, “LinkedIn Alumni Networking Strategy”

Internships are a great way to apply the skills you learn in the classroom in a real-world environment. They also give you a low-risk opportunity to explore different careers and clarify the direction you want to take. Completing an internship can help bridge the gap between being a college student with limited experience and qualifying for an entry-level job that requires experience.

However, searching for internships, like a traditional job search, can be stressful. It may be difficult to know where to start or where to look. More people are applying for internships, while fewer positions are available.¹ But don't worry, we're here to help.

Below are six tips to increase your chances of landing an internship while you're in college.

Start Looking Early

Many companies begin the hiring process several months before an internship starts. Be proactive and begin your search early to understand what employers are looking for. Applying early often means less competition, and many positions are filled before the application deadline.

Create a Strong Resume and LinkedIn Profile

Recruiters spend an average of just 7.4 seconds scanning a resume before deciding whether to move forward with an applicant.² Make those seconds count. Highlight class projects, volunteer work, previous jobs, and relevant skills. Whenever possible, use measurable results and strong action verbs to demonstrate your accomplishments.

Recruiters are also likely to review your LinkedIn profile, so make sure it is current and professional. A complete, well-organized profile strengthens your credibility and gives employers another opportunity to see your experience and skills.

Network

You've probably heard the saying, "It's not what you know; it's who you know." Research suggests that more than 70% of jobs are never publicly posted, and as many as 80% are filled through networking.³ Recruiters are often more likely to hire someone they know or someone who comes recommended than an applicant from a job board.

Even if you're new to the job market, your network may be larger than you realize. Family members, friends, professors, alumni, and classmates can all provide valuable connections. Ask them for job search advice and whether they know people working in fields that interest you. You can also request informational interviews with professionals, even if their companies aren't currently hiring. Those relationships may open doors in the future.

Use Your College's Career Resources

Most colleges and universities have career centers that offer resume reviews, mock interviews, and career counseling. They also host internship fairs and maintain job boards featuring entry-level opportunities. Faculty members in your department may also know about internships related to your major.

Tailor Your Applications to Each Employer

Every internship is different, so avoid sending the same resume and cover letter to every employer. Instead, emphasize the experience and skills that best match each opportunity. Customize your cover letter for each position, and incorporate keywords from the job posting to demonstrate that you're a strong fit.

Gain More Experience

Even if you don't currently have a job, you can still build experience that helps you stand out. Volunteer with local organizations, take on freelance projects, or choose class assignments that help you develop new skills. Seeking out these opportunities demonstrates initiative and shows employers that you're committed to growing professionally.

Sources

1. https://resources.twc.edu/articles/the-internship-squeeze-why-its-harder-than-ever-and-how-to-get-one
2. https://www.theladders.com/career-advice/why-do-recruiters-spend-only-7-4-seconds-on-resumes
3. https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbestechcouncil/2020/10/15/networking-its-not-what-you-think/

After spending your entire childhood and most of your teenage years in school, you may feel a little burned out. That's completely understandable. School can be demanding.

Now you may be headed to college, or perhaps you're already a seasoned student with two or three years of university behind you. Whatever your situation, it's easy to lose motivation without even realizing it if you don't have a plan.

That's why it's important to find your motivation, turn it into action and sustain it over the long term. By doing so, you may find yourself feeling more engaged as you work, study and enjoy college life.

Below are three steps to becoming and staying motivated during college.

1. Know Your Purpose

It's difficult to stay motivated if you don't know why you're doing something. Whether you're in college to learn new skills, become more competitive in the job market or explore new ways of thinking, you're there for a reason.

Identify and remember your "why" for earning a degree. What are your long-term goals? How is your education helping you move closer to them? By connecting your daily work to your purpose and celebrating your progress along the way, you can build lasting motivation one step at a time.

2. Create Habits

We all know how it feels to set a New Year's resolution. At first, we feel excited and committed to achieving what we set out to do. After 30 days, however, only about 25% of people remain committed to their resolutions, and only about 10% ultimately achieve their yearly goal.¹

One reason many people fall short is that a resolution focuses on an outcome, such as losing weight, landing a dream job or getting better grades. Without a system in place, those goals can be difficult to achieve. Habits help you focus on the daily and weekly actions that lead to long-term success.

Create a schedule that works for you and stick to it. Small, consistent efforts are far more effective than occasional marathon study sessions. Motivation comes and goes, but strong habits will help you stay on track and turn your motivation into action.

3. Protect Your Well-Being

Even if you find your motivation and act on it consistently, you won't be able to sustain it without taking care of your physical, mental and emotional health. Practicing self-care can reduce stress, lower your risk of chronic illness and help you recharge.²

Take care of yourself through proper nutrition, regular exercise and adequate rest. Maintain your energy by taking breaks and setting healthy boundaries. Turn to others for help and support when you need it. Remember that struggling is a normal part of life, and it's okay to say no so you don't stretch yourself too thin.

Sources

1. https://news.columbia.edu/news/resolutions-new-year-change-behavior-values
2. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health

Attending a college or university can help you prepare for your career, develop valuable skills and discover new interests. Whatever your goals, higher education can be a rewarding experience.

However, college can also be expensive. Tuition, rent, food, textbooks, activities, subscriptions and other expenses can quickly add up. You may be wondering how to spend wisely, save consistently and still enjoy college life without breaking the bank. Managing your finances can feel overwhelming, but making smart financial decisions doesn't have to be.

Here are seven tips to help you make the most of your money as a college student.

Cook More Meals at Home

When you're living on your own and juggling a busy schedule, it's tempting to eat out frequently. We get it. Fast food and restaurants are convenient, and they taste good. It's okay to eat out occasionally, but paying for every meal can add up.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, grocery prices have increased more slowly than restaurant prices in recent years.¹ The average American spends around $3,945 per year on food away from home.²

Preparing meals at home is usually less expensive than buying them from a restaurant or fast-food chain. It's often healthier too, since restaurants tend to use more butter, oils, salt and sugar than you would at home. Do your wallet and your body a favor by cooking more meals yourself.

Rent or Buy Used Textbooks

Many college courses require textbooks and other course materials. Textbooks can be expensive, especially if you need several in the same semester. Save money by renting textbooks or purchasing used copies if you'd like to keep them.

Some libraries offer textbooks for checkout, and digital versions are often less expensive than printed copies. If you know someone who has already taken the course, ask if they'd be willing to sell you their textbook. A little planning can go a long way.

Avoid Impulse Purchases

It's easy to blur the line between wants and needs, so try waiting at least 24 hours before buying something nonessential. Often, you'll realize you don't really need it.

When you go shopping, make a list and stick to it. Planning your purchases ahead of time can help you avoid spending money on things you don't need.

Use Free Campus Resources

Many colleges offer resources, services and activities to students at no additional cost. Instead of paying for private tutors or extra subscriptions, visit the library, writing center, career center or tutoring center if they're available. You can also take advantage of health and wellness resources, such as a campus gym or mental health counseling.

Many colleges also provide free or discounted access to software such as Adobe Creative Cloud, Microsoft Office 365, Canva Pro and Google Workspace. Don't forget about free printing, mailing and other student services that can help you save money.

Set Aside Money for Emergencies

You never know when you might need an emergency fund. Your car could break down, you might face unexpected medical bills, or you may need to travel home on short notice. Set aside a portion of your income each month and reserve those savings for unexpected expenses.

Work a Part-Time Job

A part-time job can provide extra income while helping you gain valuable experience for your future career. Consider looking for on-campus opportunities, which are often more flexible and designed to fit around your class schedule.

Take an Online Course Through BYU Independent Study or Another Provider

Meeting your credit requirements more efficiently may help you graduate sooner and reduce the overall cost of your education. With BYU Independent Study, you can study at your own pace and balance coursework around a job, other classes and extracurricular activities.

Many colleges and universities across the United States accept transfer credit from BYU Independent Study courses. However, always check with your academic advisor or admissions office before enrolling.

Sources

1. https://www.ers.usda.gov/amber-waves/2024/october/u-s-consumers-increased-spending-on-food-away-from-home-in-2023-driving-overall-food-spending-growth
2. https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2026/the-new-year-and-household-spending.htm

College is busy. Balancing classes, homework, work, clubs, a social life, and other responsibilities can feel overwhelming. When your schedule fills up, it's easy for your physical, mental, and emotional health to take a back seat. But it doesn't have to.

Whether you're facing a demanding semester or simply want to build healthier habits, these tips can help you take care of yourself while managing college life.

Exercise regularly.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that adults get 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous exercise each week, along with muscle-strengthening activities at least two days a week.¹

Regular exercise improves physical health, lowers the risk of chronic disease, boosts mood, sharpens thinking, and helps reduce stress.

Exercise doesn't have to mean spending hours at the gym. Try swimming, playing a favorite sport, gardening, cleaning, mowing the lawn, or walking to class. The best exercise is one you'll enjoy and stick with.

Eat nutritious meals.

When you're busy, it's tempting to skip meals or rely on fast food. But eating balanced meals provides steady energy, helps control your appetite, and supports both your physical and mental well-being.

Choose foods that include healthy fats, carbohydrates, and protein. It's perfectly fine to enjoy your favorite treats from time to time, but aim to make nutritious choices most of the time.

Get enough sleep.

Most adults need at least seven hours of sleep each night, yet many college students get much less.

Getting enough sleep helps strengthen your immune system, maintain a healthy weight, reduce stress, lower your risk of chronic disease, and improve memory and concentration.

When deadlines start piling up, sleep is often the first thing sacrificed. Instead, make it a priority. You'll likely perform better because of it.

Take breaks.

Working for hours without stopping may seem productive, but it often leads to burnout and reduced creativity.

Taking regular breaks gives your brain time to recharge, process information, reduce stress, and improve focus when you return to your work.

Spend time with others.

Even if you're naturally independent, too much isolation can negatively affect your physical and mental health. The CDC identifies social isolation and loneliness as widespread concerns linked to depression, anxiety, chronic disease, and a shorter lifespan.²

Research also shows that meaningful social connections can improve resilience, self-esteem, academic motivation, and overall well-being.

Make time for family and friends, whether in person or virtually. Consider joining a club, intramural sport, study group, or community organization to build connections.

Block out your time.

Time blocking can help you stay organized and reduce stress. Set aside dedicated time for classes, studying, exercise, meal preparation, work, and personal activities.

Using a paper planner or digital calendar can help you stay ahead of deadlines and avoid the pressure of last-minute cramming.

Ask for help.

Even when you do everything right, college can still feel stressful or overwhelming.

Don't hesitate to ask professors, teaching assistants, counselors, family members, friends, or other trusted individuals for support. Reaching out is a sign of strength, and getting help early can make a big difference.

Notes:

1. https://odphp.health.gov/sites/default/files/2019-09/Physical_Activity_Guidelines_2nd_edition.pdf

2. https://www.cdc.gov/social-connectedness/risk-factors/index.html

Your junior year of high school is an important one. Coursework becomes more challenging, standardized tests start approaching, and you may even begin working a job. With so many responsibilities on your plate, you may wonder, “What should I be doing now to prepare for college and adult life?”

Advice is everywhere, and it can be overwhelming to sort through all the options. To help, we've narrowed it down to eight practical tips that can help you make the most of your junior year.

1. Take rigorous courses.

Your junior year is the last full year of coursework colleges and universities typically review before making admission decisions. Challenge yourself with courses that stretch your abilities, strengthen critical-thinking skills, and demonstrate academic readiness.

2. Use your time effectively.

As your academic, extracurricular, social, and work responsibilities grow, effective time management becomes essential. Prioritize important tasks, use a planner or calendar to stay organized, and schedule study time during the hours when you're most productive.

3. Take standardized tests.

Although many colleges are now test-optional, strong SAT or ACT scores can still strengthen your application. Create a study plan, take practice exams, and identify areas where you can improve before test day.

4. Seek leadership opportunities.

With several years of high school experience behind you, look for opportunities to take on greater responsibility in clubs, sports, volunteer organizations, or part-time jobs. Leadership experience helps you grow personally while enhancing your college applications.

5. Build strong relationships with teachers.

Many colleges request recommendation letters as part of the admissions process. Teachers who know you well are better able to highlight your strengths, character, and potential. Participate in class, ask questions, and seek opportunities to connect with them.

6. Get enough sleep.

Teenagers need eight to 10 hours of sleep each night for healthy development, yet many get less than that. To reduce stress, improve concentration, and avoid burnout, aim for at least eight hours of sleep each night.

7. Begin researching colleges.

You don't need to know exactly what career you want to pursue or where you'll apply, but junior year is a great time to begin exploring your options. Research different colleges, academic programs, costs, and campus cultures to identify schools that may be a good fit.

8. Take an online course through BYU Independent Study or another provider.

Online courses can demonstrate readiness for college-level coursework while giving you greater flexibility in your schedule. BYU Independent Study helps students balance academics with work, athletics, extracurricular activities, and other commitments while learning at their own pace. Most U.S. high schools accept BYU Independent Study courses for graduation credit, but always check with your counselor before registering.

High school is a busy time. Balancing classes, sports, clubs, work, social activities, and other responsibilities can be challenging. When you fall behind, catching up can feel overwhelming. That's why strong time-management skills are so important.

With effective planning and time-management skills, you can stay on top of your responsibilities and reduce stress. Here are 10 tips to help you make the most of your time as a busy high school student.

1. Use a planner or calendar.

Whether it’s a paper planner or an app on your phone, keeping track of assignment deadlines, social activities, work shifts and other responsibilities will help you stay organized. A planner can also help you avoid the last-minute panic of a major project due at midnight by reminding you beforehand.

2. Break down larger projects into smaller tasks.

Large projects and lengthy essays can seem intimidating at first. However, breaking them down into smaller steps and milestones makes it much easier to get started and spread out the workload over several days or weeks.

3. Limit distractions while you study.

It can be tempting to watch TV or play videos in the background while doing homework. However, research shows that students retain more information and perform better on tests when they study in a distraction-free environment.

4. Time-block your day.

Set aside specific blocks of time throughout the day for different tasks. By focusing on one task at a time instead of constantly switching between activities, you'll often complete assignments faster and retain more information.

5. Take regular breaks.

The brain isn’t designed to study for several hours without rest. When you take regular breaks, your mind has a chance to relax and process new information. Taking breaks will also help you remember much more from your study sessions.

6. Get enough sleep.

Teenagers need eight to 10 hours of sleep each night for healthy development, but research shows many get only 6.5 to 7.5 hours on average. Getting enough sleep can improve concentration, energy, and academic performance.

7. Set boundaries.

You don’t have to say “yes” to every club, sport, favor or friendly outing. Overloading your schedule can increase stress and make it harder to do your best. Give yourself room to breathe, recharge and focus on what matters most.

8. Study during your most productive hours.

Everyone's schedule is different. If you're more productive in the morning, dedicate that time to homework and major projects. If you work best in the evening, plan your study time later in the day. Whenever possible, work during your most productive hours while maintaining healthy habits.

9. Take an online course through BYU Independent Study or another provider.

Online courses can provide the flexibility to learn on your schedule and at your own pace. BYU Independent Study helps students balance academics with work, athletics, extracurricular activities, and other commitments. Most U.S. high schools accept BYU Independent Study courses for graduation credit, but always check with your counselor before registering.

10. Build consistent habits and routines.

Each of these strategies can help you make better use of your time, but consistency is what creates lasting results. Choose one or two ideas to start with and build them into daily habits.