Virtual Study Halls

The Center of Health at Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) is excited to launch its Spring 2025 offerings of Virtual Study Halls (VSH) to help students stay accountable and make the most of their study time. These sessions will use the Pomodoro Technique, which consists of 25-minute focused study sessions followed by short 5-minute scheduled breaks to help students study efficiently while maximizing their productivity.

These sessions are open to all NEIU students seeking a structured and focused study environment. Whether preparing for exams, working on an assignment, or doing a difficult task, you are welcome to join us.

The Virtual Study Halls sessions will begin on April 7, 2025, and will be offered via Zoom every Monday, Thursday, and Saturday through May 17, 2025. 

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Virtual Study Halls

Monday from 4 to 6 P.M.

Thursday from 2 to 4 P.M.

Saturday from 9 to 11 A.M.

General FAQ

Can the Virtual Study Halls help me?

The NEIU Center of Health can provide more information on Virtual Study Hall (VSH), which is available to all NEIU students at no charge and is a proven way to be more productive! The VSHs use the Pomodoro Technique and Body Doubling to help students boost productivity, retain information, and push through procrastination.

How does it work?

We use the Zoom app, which is accessible by computer, smartphone, tablet, and landline. VSH sessions consist of four 25-minute focused work periods separated by a 5-minute break. During the break, Zoom participants are not literally in the room together, but attendees feel their presence is the same. Knowing you will check in about your progress — and that support is there if you are stuck — makes all the difference.

How can I join the Virtual Study Halls?

Any student who wishes to participate can complete the registration form to receive the Zoom link. We recommend coming with tasks you want to accomplish. These can be homework assignments, like papers you need to read or write, or even chores at home that you have been procrastinating on: cleaning, sorting, filing paperwork, preparing tax documents, etc.

HOW OFTEN CAN I JOIN THE VIRTUAL STUDY HALLS?

The VSH sessions will begin on April 7, 2025, and will be offered through May 17, 2025, through Zoom every Monday, Thursday, and Saturday.

Monday: 4 - 6 p.m.
Thursday: 2 - 4 p.m.
Saturday: 9 - 11 a.m.

Will this improve my productivity?

The Pomodoro Technique, developed by Francesco Cirillo, is a time management method that uses a timer to divide work periods into intervals with short breaks. On the other hand, the Body Doubling Technique is a way to get more work done and be more motivated and active when we surround ourselves with others who are motivated, active, and working. The Pomodoro Technique and Body Doubling are two models frequently used in the Center of Health's ADDA Achieves Program, a support program for NEIU students with ADHD.

What should I expect?

The session will begin with everyone stating aloud or writing the task in the chat that they wish to accomplish for the first 25-minute Pomodoro cycle. The student facilitator will start a timer for 25 minutes, and then everyone will get to work with their mic on mute. After 25 minutes, we will reconvene for a progress check-in and brainstorm if someone is in procrastination or distraction mode. The second, third, and fourth sessions will begin like the first. Everyone states the task they plan to work on for the focused study session. A final progress check-in occurs after the final 25-minute session. 

Students who cannot attend all four 25-minute sessions can also join for only one session and get things done. 

How do I sign up?

Please fill out the form to show interest and sign up for more information. We will contact you soon about participating in Virtual Study Halls. 

Sign up for VSH