Attending Eastern New Mexico University is a wonderful learning experience, why not share it with your friends? One of the most effective studying habits is to study with a group of people who share common goals.

I am not talking about study groups that turn into another distracting hangout session. I am referring to absolute-focus groups with members that work well with others and encourage each other to achieve goals.

There is no doubt that there are times to study solo, but studying with a group is an effective method to get work done. Here's why:

Study Groups Help You Focus.

Many students think that studying with a group of people will only waste their time, but I beg to differ. Think of it as a wolf pack. If a member of your pack (study group) is getting a little off-topic, you have others to help you give them positive reinforcement to refocus. You also gain inspiration from those in your pack who are on top of their work. The moments of procrastinating will dissipate when you see all your peers concentrating.

Friends Don't Let Friends Give Up.

It's true. The ideal pack will encourage one another to keep going especially when midterms come around. For those you in mathematics or sciences, this might be the core belief as to why study groups work. If you are stuck on a question or problem that you are unfamiliar with, there is a good chance that someone in your group may have the solution. In areas where you are weak, others in your group may be strong. You can help each other in the area of your expertise.

Oh Yeah, I Almost Forgot! Snacks.

Let's not forget the real reason why most of us get to get together to study (lol not really). Eating during a study session is a healthy habit to create. Your body is in constant need of sugars, salts and other nutrients. It's a big plus to have that one friend who brings snacks, or even better to have all of you bring snacks to share!

The Athletes Do It, Why Don't You?

ENMU Athletics understands that team building is part of succeeding on and off the field. Sports teams will get together weekly to dedicate their time to homework. Eastern's athletes set the bar high and leave an example for the rest of the Greyhound community to work hard and to stay on top of academics. Why don't we take on the same techniques that athlete use to succeed?

Stress is relieved.

Studying with your peers is an awesome tool to relieve stress. If you think about it, all of you within the group have mutual goals, and that is where the connection is born. Whether you need a pat on the back, a healthy snack or a good laugh, your study group will help you to relieve stress. If you are not currently in a study group, I encourage you to give it a try. It's worth it.