Do you want an in-demand job in Canada? If so, a career in dental hygiene might be the right choice for you.
According to recent reports, the demand for dental hygienists in Canada has increased by 285 percent over the last few years.
If you’re going to pursue a career in dental hygiene, you’re going to have to do a lot of studying if you want to be successful.
These seven great study tips will help you stay sane and retain as much information as possible as you go through your dental hygienist schooling.
1. Set Clear Goals
The easiest way to get through all your dental hygiene schoolwork is to set clear, manageable goals.
Break down projects, reading assignments, and other work into small chunks and give yourself a clear time frame for when each thing needs to be accomplished.
2. Get Up and Move
As a busy student, chances are the last thing you feel like doing is getting up and exercising.
In reality, though, you can improve your memory and brain processing speed by making exercise a priority.
Every thirty minutes or so, get up and do a few stretches or do some basic exercises like push-ups or squats.
3. Change Up Your Study Material
It may seem like a good idea to focus on one study topic at a time. But, this can also lead to boredom and actually cause you to retain less information.
Try varying your study material and focusing on a few different topics during each study session. This can help your brain stay engaged and alert.
4. Form a Study Group
Many students find it helpful to get together with their peers to review notes before a quiz or exam. These quick study sessions can help them fill in gaps and remember topics they might have forgotten had they studied alone.
5. Study Before Bed
Studying for a few minutes before going to bed can help you remember information better. This is because your brain strengthens new memories while you’re sleeping.
Studying before bed can be helpful, but make sure you’re still getting plenty of sleep. Sleep deprivation can make you more sensitive to stress and can negatively affect your memory.
6. Eat Lots of Brain Food
Make sure your diet is supporting your academic goals. It may be tempting to rely on fast food or pre-packaged stacks to fuel your study sessions, but you’ll be better off eating whole, nutrient-dense foods that will boost your brain power and leave you feeling more energized.
Some good foods to keep on hand include:
- Easy protein sources: hard-boiled eggs, pre-cooked chicken, deli turkey, etc.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables: carrots, apples, berries, celery, leafy greens, etc.
- Healthy fats: Extra-virgin olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds, etc.
Steer clear of processed carbohydrates and pre-packaged foods as much as possible. These will just leave you feeling slugging and tired.
7. Plan Ahead (But Not Too Far)
Finally, while it’s good to plan ahead, don’t take your preparation too far.
Instead of getting caught up in what assignments are due next month, focus on what you have to do this week.
You’ll avoid getting overwhelmed this way, and your school work will feel more manageable.
Need More Advice for Your Dental Hygienist Schooling?
These study tips will help you ace your exams and gain the knowledge you need to become a dental hygienist.
If you’re still in the early stages of your education and want to learn more about what dental hygienist schooling entails, request a free information kit today.
This kit will tell you everything you need to know about what Southern Ontario Dental College has to offer.