Studying part-time while you have a full-time job may seem like a daunting prospect. Picture yourself standing at the foot of a mountain, you’ve got your backpack filled with essentials and you are ready for the climb. You’re staring at the climb ahead, the new challenge you face, much like taking on studying part-time while working. Along the way, you will face obstacles on this climb, such as pressure from your job, personal life matters and your studies. But fear not, we’re here to tell you that it is not impossible. Nothing is impossible if you are dedicated and driven. As Elon Musk eloquently (rightly) stated, “it is possible for ordinary people to choose to be extraordinary”.
Having said that, we want to encourage you to rise to the challenge and give it a chance. We have put together five valuable “essentials” to add to your backpack for your climb to the top and for achieving success!
1. PLAN YOUR WORKLOAD AND ESTABLISH A ROUTINE
As the old saying goes “if you fail to plan, you plan to fail”.
We suggest taking your lesson plan and strategically planning how you are going to tackle each learning outcome. Allocate a specific amount of time that you will dedicate to that module. Working with a calendar can be very helpful in this instance, as you will need to remember to allocate time for rest and your personal life.
2. SET GOALS FOR YOURSELF
This goes hand in hand with planning, because a goal without a plan is only a dream. Set realistic milestones for yourself and make a checklist to tick them off. This is a great motivator and it is guaranteed to give you a sense of achievement which will inspire you to face the next milestone.
3. UPDATE YOUR EMPLOYER
It’s important to inform your employer that you are studying part-time. Discussing aspects such as study leave, reassuring them that major work tasks won’t be affected by your studies and the possibility of occasionally working from home to cut time spent commuting so that you can focus on your study.
It’s important to keep the lines of communication open with your employer and to get support from them, as your studies could potentially benefit their company in the greater scheme of things.
4. DEALING WITH DISTRACTIONS
In today’s world, there are distractions all over, social media being the main one. To avoid the temptation to check your phone while studying, switch your phone to silent or to ‘do not disturb’ to avoid checking it constantly.
If you live with other people, it’s important to set boundaries with them and advise them of the times that you are not to be disturbed.
If housework is a concern for you, allocating time in your schedule for this will help keep you in your routine.
5. MAKE A STUDY GROUP OR FRIENDS IN YOUR COURSE
Getting to know other students on your course, and staying in regular contact with them, can be really motivating. You can share ideas and support one other when one of you is not coping or under pressure.
Social interaction is good for your mental health so meeting up with your classmates for study sessions, if they live close to you or via an online video call, could really benefit you and perhaps teach you something new that you did not know.
Some courses will also have an online forum for students to chat, share ideas and ask questions, so making the most of this will also be incredibly beneficial for you.
Having said that, it is important to remember to consider your mental and physical health. You can’t climb a mountain without taking regular breaks, resting and fueling your body. You will be less productive if you start to neglect yourself and your needs.
At Future Banker, we have well-equipped lecturers and advisors who assist in managing your workload and stress levels. We can help you climb this mountain, one step at a time.
So, what are you waiting for? Your backpack is filled with all the necessities needed to take on this mountain. We can help you achieve your goals. Visit our website today to find out more about the courses available to you.