I really feel you. It is so hard for me to study. Here's what ended up working for me: I'd go into a quiet room and shut the door. Obviously, you don't want the television or radio on. Other things that distracted me that you may not have thought of were screensavers on my computer, the telephone ringing (I suggest being in a room without a phone, or just taking it off the hook for awhile), my pets wanting attention, birds, cars, and other noises outside ( keep your windows down for studying), and even oscillating fans.
If I had some chapters to read, I'd read them out loud. It really helps you focus and if you lose your train of thought, just go back and read it again. You'll be able to tell when the information sinks in.
In class, try sitting at the front of the classroom. That way you won't have much more to look at and pay attention to than what's directly in front of you. Your professor.
Finally, I know you're a guy and this idea might not thrill you, but my mind spins a lot too, and I found that journaling helps. If you're not comfortable writing on paper, try typing in Word. You can put a password on the document so no one else can access it, or just delete it when you're done. If I were you I'd keep it. When you see all that you've written, it'll reinforce the idea that everything that was in your mind causing it to spin is out, and that you should be able to think clearly now.
I know if I take the time to sit down and write about the things that are on my mind, its like I can let those things rest until the next time I write, which allows me to focus more on the things I need to be doing during the day.

If nothing seems to help, you might have some form of ADD (Attention Defecit Disorder), which I'm sure you've heard of. Try doing an internet search and see if you're experiencing any of the symptoms. If so, talk to your doctor.


Shade

PS> Vitamins you can take, such as Gingko Biloba, have been known to help with concentration. You can get them over-the-counter, I don't think they have any real side-effects, but of course, its best to ask your doctor before you start taking them.

thanx alot

Hi, I'm Shade. I'm an artist, living in sin in a small town, hopping from job to job, and recieving no support from my family. I was diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder when I was 18. I've suffered through many, many, many bouts of depression, panic attacks and just plain fun ole' anxiety. Since I left my Mom's house years ago, I've lived a lot of places and met a lot of strange, horrible, and beautiful individuals. I've learned a lot about people in general and I'd have to say I'm a good judge of character.
As mentioned earlier, I'm "the artist currently known as starving". I do some oil and watercolor, but mostly acrylic painting, also some clay and metal sculpture. I appreciate all kinds of art and love to talk about it. I like to read, mostly twisted, weird fiction or memoirs about drugs and the fellow insane. I love all types of music, mostly rock, and doing anything outdoors, all my animals, horror movies, and mexican food...I drive an old, crappy, loud car that embarasses me and I just left my job at the art gallery, so as of right now, I am unemployed, livin' off my man.

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