Tips for IB students

1. Don't Procrastinate!

This tip has made the top of our list because it is something that we have struggled with in our Junior and Senior years of the IB Program. You should start brainstorming topics for your Extended Essay, CAS Project, and all your Internal Assessments early. You will face the consequences and the work will start piling up if you don't start doing things as soon as you find out about them.

2. Always do your work!

It is only affecting you if you choose not to do your work. A major reason that the classes may seem fast-paced and the teachers seem to be giving a lot of work is because they are trying to prepare you for the IB exams. You are also taking college-level courses so this work will make college seem a lot easier when you get there.

3. Have a life outside of school!

You should be able to have an escape from your school work when it gets too overwhelming. This could include just hanging out with your friends or being included in a club. It is good to have something that allows you to take your mind off of school work. Also, having friends in the IB program allows you guys to have study groups and understand what each other is going through. We have made some of our best friends in this program.

4. Be Organized!

This is something that I (Deneilya) struggle more with than my co-creator on this website. I highly recommend getting a planner to keep all the due dates for assignments or even setting reminders on your phones. Get multiple folders or a different notebook for each class to keep all of your notes. This way, when the IB test comes, you won't have to go searching to see where everything is.

5. Try to get at least 8 hours of sleep!

You are still young and your body still has some growing to do. Getting at least 8 hours of sleep allows you to stay awake at school and take in a lot more information. You are also a lot more aware of your surroundings.

6. Prioritize Your Mental Health!

School work is absolutely important but nothing is more important than your well-being. Speak to your coordinator or teachers if you are feeling overwhelmed with school work and let them know if you will be handing in assignments late. Also, speak with a mental health counselor to talk about your feelings. Don't be afraid to take a mental health day or just breaks throughout each day for yourself.

7. Look for a way of studying that is best for you!

My personal favorite way of studying is using Quizlet, which allows me to input my own notes and study them virtually. You can take practice tests and there are even games that help make studying fun. Some students would like to take time away from their devices and choose to make their own paper flashcards. When you find a way of studying that is best for you, the results are great.

8. Start college applications!

This relates back to not procrastinating but it still deserves its own numbers. Start college essays the summer before your senior year, so that you don't have to worry about it while still having to do your school work. I waited until the last minute to finish my Extended Essay and College applications around the same time as each other. Ask for recommendation letters early.

9. Pick a topic that you actually will enjoy exploring for your Extended Essay!

When you pick a topic that you love and an advisor that you have a good relationship with, the EE won't seem like a lot of work. I really enjoyed my topic, which related to HIV/AIDS and I learned a lot about it. I would also choose a topic that would broaden your understanding and perspective.

10. Don't stress!

IB only takes up two years of your life and you shouldn't let it dictate how you feel about your future. You are the only one that can do that.