"Seek knowledge even to the land of China" is one quote that reminds us of the importance of continuous learning in life. Learning is a right for everyone, regardless of their background. Through learning, we can broaden our horizons, keep up with the world's progress, and definitely improve the way we think, especially for university students who are future game changers of the nation.

For UNDIRA students who are working on their thesis or planning their Student Creativity Program (PKM), studying and finding references are key. However, many distractions can hinder study focus nowadays, from social media to difficulty managing time, especially for working-class students.

Studying is everyone's responsibility. Feeling bored during study time is normal, but there are ways to stay focused and avoid stress. One of these is the Pomodoro Technique, a learning method developed by Francesco Cirillo, a software designer from Spain, in the late 1980s. This technique is still widely used today because it has been proven to make learning more effective.

Initially, Francesco used a tomato-shaped timer to help him stay focused while working on tasks. Cirillo used a time duration of 25 minutes for focused work and 5 minutes for rest, within a series of four sessions of the subject matter he was studying. After completing the first study session, Cirillo took an extended break of 15 minutes before moving on to the next material.

The Pomodoro Technique is one method students can use to manage their study time. It involves utilizing study time while synchronizing with the brain's natural rhythm. In other words, it requires taking short breaks every 5 minutes within study sessions to keep the brain fresh and focused while consistently pursuing knowledge.

Here are some broad benefits of implementing the Pomodoro Technique in studying:

• Improves Focus: This method reduces the brain's tendency to "wander" during study sessions.

• Reduces Mental Fatigue: Short work intervals minimize stress and exhaustion that often accompany long study sessions.

• Adds Enjoyment to Studying: Its flexible and structured approach makes studying a more pleasant activity.

By understanding the benefits of the Pomodoro Technique, students can follow these simple steps to enhance their study quality:

1. Prepare a Task List: Identify the tasks or subject materials you want to complete.

2. Use a Timer: Set a timer for 25 minutes for each study session and start studying.

3. Full Focus: It’s recommended that students turn on “do not disturb” mode or turn off their phones and use a simple stopwatch to avoid distractions such as phone notifications or social media during the 25-minute duration.

4. Short Breaks: After the alarm goes off, take a short break every 5 minutes to relax your muscles and mind by looking around. It’s not recommended for students to check their phones during these breaks to avoid breaking study focus.

5. Long Break: After finishing all study materials, take a longer break of 15–30 minutes before studying the next material.

Although studying can be tedious, there’s no need to worry. As one of the educational institutions accredited with “EXCELLENT” quality by BAN-PT, Universitas Dian Nusantara (UNDIRA) offers learning opportunities to all communities with interactive and flexible methods. Guided by values such as being Visionary, Integrity, and Professional, UNDIRA is committed to producing graduates who are ready to compete in the industrial world by 2030.

UNDIRA also features creative programs oriented toward student development, such as Table Manner training and Nebuka Culture Festival, which enhance students' soft skills by allowing them to practice all the lessons they’ve learned.

On top of that, UNDIRA provides affordable fees and flexible schedules through its working-class programs. With UNDIRA, you not only can become outstanding individuals, but through supporting facilities such as libraries, communication science labs, computer labs, and other labs, you can also develop your creativity and innovation to the next level. Let’s upgrade your interest in learning with Universitas Dian Nusantara.