Google processes over 50,000 searches every second. Contrary to that statement, the process of asking a question and finding the answer doesn’t always have to be solved in seconds. Sometimes, it takes a great amount of time and effort to come to the right conclusion. While that doesn’t sound like a fun process, with our smartphone as our trusty sidekick, we’ve forgotten there are benefits to hard work.
College students who use their smartphones to an extensive degree have lower grade point averages and have higher levels of anxiety, according to a Kent State University study.
The dependency on phones has given students a false sense of security. That security has a name: instant gratification.
We’ve taken it as an unspoken right that an answer or solution shouldn’t take longer than a few minutes to find. If that process starts to drag on, we lose interest and come to the false conclusion that it’s not worth knowing and quit.
Instead of quitting, push past the comforting feeling that comes with giving up. Google is the primary search engine for 94 percent of teenagers, while 16 percent use a research librarian, according to a study by the Pew Research Center.
If students are having trouble focusing on their class work, they should try going to the library. The library can be a great place to block out distractions. When I spend time there, I find that I can accomplish anything. When surrounded by people who care about their work and are trying their best, other students will start to feel the same about their own work.
If the trip to Feinberg library is too cold, try using SUNY Plattsburgh’s online library. There, students can be connected to databases that can help with any assignment or research paper they have.
Two databases I would recommend are LexisNexis and Dogpile. These search engines are easy to use and won’t have you poring over useless articles for hours.
I also suggest turning off the cellphone, if you can stand it, for at least two hours a day, three times a week. If that’s too harsh, put it on silent and flip it over so your traitorous eyes won’t sneak a peek every few seconds. School work is what really matters, not that scandalous story a friend is texting you an essay about.
I’ve been told that hard work is what gets you the things you want. Life is hard and doesn’t owe you everything, but if you work hard enough, you will be able to achieve anything.
Instead of relying on Google to solve problems, go to the library and find the answer. You don’t have to be extraordinary. You just have to try.
Email Shania Savastio at shania.savastio@cardinalpointsonline.com
