Why Executive Functioning Skills Matter for College Success
Starting college is both an exciting and nerve-wracking journey! New experiences await, but so do high expectations. Many students stress about their ability to thrive academically while also joining clubs and organizations and taking advantage of the social aspects of a full college life. One of the most effective ways to rise to those expectation is by honing your executive functioning skills. The good news is, executive functioning skills aren’t set in stone, you can grow them!
What Are Executive Functioning Skills?
Executive functioning skills are the mental processes that allow students to think critically, manage themselves, solve problems, and achieve their goals. Strengthening these skills leads to greater academic and personal success, not just in college, but beyond.
Kim’s Expert Tips for College Students
As Tierney Education’s new Director of Academic Coaching, Kim brings deep expertise in helping students build these essential habits. Here are some of her top strategies for boosting executive functioning:
Starting Tasks: Use the 2 Minute Rule
If a task will take you two minutes or less, do it right away. Tackling quick tasks immediately builds momentum and makes larger assignments feel more manageable.
Time Management: Create a Weekly Schedule
Plan your week in advance, including classes, study sessions, activities, and downtime. This proactive approach helps you prioritize and prevents overwhelm.
Focus: Try the Pomodoro Technique
Work in 25-minute intervals followed by short breaks. This method increases concentration and makes studying more productive.
Organization: Develop a Filing System
Set up a consistent way—digital or physical—to organize notes, assignments, and course materials. Being able to quickly find what you need reduces stress and saves time.
Self-Regulation: Set Achievable Goals
Break big projects into smaller, manageable steps. Celebrate each milestone to build motivation and self-confidence.
Working Memory: Reduce Multitasking
Focus on one task at a time. Avoid switching between assignments or devices, as multitasking can overload your memory and decrease retention.
Emotional Self-Control: Reframe Negative Thoughts
When you encounter setbacks, try to see them from a positive or constructive perspective. This helps you manage stress and bounce back more effectively.
Impulse Control: Identify Emotional Triggers
Notice situations or feelings that lead to impulsive decisions. Recognizing your triggers is the first step to managing them better.
Cognitive Flexibility: Embrace New Experiences
Challenge yourself to try new things, learn new skills, or see problems from different perspectives. Flexibility helps you adapt and grow in college and life.
Ready to Build Stronger Habits?
Executive functioning skills are the foundation for college success. By practicing these strategies, students can become more organized, confident, and resilient, ready to tackle all that Penn State has to offer.
If your student could use extra support developing these critical skills, contact Tierney Education. With Kim leading our academic coaching team, we’re here to provide personalized guidance and resources to help every student thrive.
Contact Tierney Education today to learn more about our academic coaching programs and start your student’s journey to lasting success.
