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Maximizing Productivity during Graduate School Workshop Series

Learning Services and Graduate Student Life present “Maximizing Productivity during Graduate School,” a workshop series designed specifically for Mason graduate students. We know you have limited time and are balancing school along with multiple life commitments. In these workshops, learn how to make the most of the time and energy you have while working toward your graduate degree.

2020-2021 Workshop Schedule

During the 2020-2021 year, the Maximizing Productivity during Graduate School Series will be held online. Registration is required; directions for accessing the online workshops will be provided to registered students. Register for the workshops here. 

Graduate School Reading Strategies

Thursday, September 10, 2020, 3-4:15pm; Online

In the first workshop of this year’s series, Graduate School Reading Strategies, learn techniques for reading research articles, texts, and other literature to increase comprehension and application of knowledge in an efficient way.

Registration for the Graduate School Reading Strategies workshop will be available here.

Watch a recording of this session here.

Online Course Strategies

Friday, September 18, 2020, 12:00-1:00pm, Online

While online courses offer students flexibility and convenience, they can present their own set of challenges. Join us for a workshop to learn how to manage your time, how to learn in an online environment, and how to use self-regulation strategies to achieve your academic goals.

Registration for the Online Course Strategies workshop will be available here.

Watch a recording of this session here.

Overcoming Procrastination

Thursday, September 24, 2020, 12:00-1:15pm, Online

Do you find yourself constantly putting off projects, assignments, or commitments? You may be caught in the “not now, later” trap. Learn the reasons why you might be putting off your work and strategies for how to break out of the procrastination cycle.

Registration for the Overcoming Procrastination workshop will be available here.

Watch a recording of this session here.

The Perils of Perfectionism in Grad School

Tuesday, October 6, 2020, 3:00-4:15pm, Online

While perfectionism seems like a worthy trait to have because it involves hard work and meticulousness, it has its downsides. Pursuing perfection is stressful and time consuming and can actually result in poor academic performance. This session will explore the perils of perfectionism and assist participants in setting more realistic goals.

Registration for The Perils of Perfectionism in Grad School workshop will be available here.

Motivation and Goal-Setting

Friday, October 23, 2019, 1:30-2:45pm, Online

If you are feeling overwhelmed with a project, thesis, or dissertation and don’t know where to start, join us at for the Motivation and Goal-Setting workshop. This workshop will help you think through the big projects you have ahead and plan out smaller goals to make steady progress toward completion.

Registration for the Motivation and Goal-Setting workshop will be available here.

Project Planning: Getting Your Research, Thesis, or Dissertation Done  (a part of GRADReCon: Graduate Research Connections)

Thursday, October 29, 2019, 2:30-3:30pm, Online 

This session will provide you with strategies for managing large projects such as research projects, community service events, and dissertations. Learn how to define the scope of your project, identify resources, create a timeline, and keep everything organized.

Registration for the Project Planning: Getting Your Research, Thesis, or Dissertation Done workshop will be available here.

Scheduling and Time Management

Pre-recorded sessions

Do you feel like you have too much on your plate, and not enough time to do it all? Do you worry that you spend too much or too little time studying? Learn the skills of successful time management and increase your ability to balance graduate school with your other commitments.Watch them here:

Time Management – Semester Deadlines and Exams

Time Management – Weekly Routine
Time Management – Daily Preparation