In high school, students are busy with an array of responsibilities, ranging from school and clubs, to work and spending time with friends. Keeping everything balanced and under control can be difficult, but by learning to manage their time in high school, students can become more prepared for life after graduation.

With so much to focus on, it’s important to be organized and stay on track. Planners will not only help students to become organized now, but it will also get them into the routine of writing down their activities, so that they can be organized in the future. Methods of prioritization are key, whether it be a reminder on your phone, or a due date on the calendar, organizational skills are undoubtedly good ones to have.

For many students, work limits the amount of time they have to complete homework and projects.

“Outside of school I just work, I don’t have time for anything else,” senior Mina Heldich said. “After school, I go to work at 4:45 and I get off work at 10 or 11. Then, I have to do my homework, get ready for tomorrow, and it’s pretty hard.”

School-run clubs and events can also consume a lot time, and it can be hard to keep up with the fast-paced life a student lives. Long hours after the school day are required for members of clubs, organizations and special events, like the school musical.

“[It’s hard] and it basically depends on the day or what time of the year it is,” sophomore Tabitha Hernandez said. “When I was on crew for the musical “Crazy for You”, I wouldn’t get home until 8 o’clock, then I had to do all my homework after that.”

In an age where technology is ever present, schedules can easily be updated, and online resources can make homework easier.

“I think technology really helps some students to get organized and have access to resources posted online, calendars, and that sort of thing,” math department Jill Morris said. “I can also see where things like Facebook and YouTube could be a distraction. It’s a double-edged sword.”

While the internet can be helpful, teenagers frequently check their Facebook profiles, and their cell phones for new updates and text messages, instead of doing homework.

Saying to yourself what needs to get done first shows great work ethic and self discipline. Putting aside the social networking and texting while doing homework is much more efficient.