Starting studyagain after you’ve been away from study for a period of time can have its
challenges, one of which is often self doubt – do we still remember how to
study? can we write fast enough to take notes in lectures? do we have what it
takes? are we really intelligent enough? BUT, studying as a mature student has
distinct advantages. Mature students often do better than younger ones, they
know what they want to study, they’re here because they want to be here, and
they bring a wealth of life experience to their study. Most lecturers really
enjoy their mature age students because they’re committed to study, to doing
the best they can, and making the most of the opportunity.
Academic
·You are embarking on a new venture. Give yourself time to familiarise yourself with the university or college, how it works and what is
expected of you as a student.
·It takes time to develop the necessary
academic skills. Become familiar with the Academic Skills Office website If you are having academic difficulties
contact your First Year Advisory.
·Have realistic expectations for your first semester assignment
results and don’t set the bar too high.
·Recognise your limits,
prioritise, and ask for help when needed. If you are unsure whom to
ask, contact the Student Support Team via email or via the Student Support helpline
·Set realistic and
attainable goals.
Plan ahead
·Make weekly, monthly, and semester planners
Have a weekly timetable with all your lectures,
practicals, tutorials and other commitments (including study time, meals,
household tasks, relaxation time, etc) marked on it.
·Get a whiteboard to hang
on your wall. Use it for to-do lists, noting down any ideas for assignments,
reminders, etc.
·Make sure you know what
information technology and communication requirements you need and be active in
ensuring that you have the necessary skills.
·Become familiar with the online provisions.
·Make sure you have a study environment
that is conducive to study; i.e., distraction free, with the necessary light,
ventilation, desk, etc.
Get the balance right
·Allocate appropriate time for readings, revision and assessments
for each unit. Allow approximately 10 hours for each unit of study.
·Allocate more time to
assignments that are worth a greater percentage of the course.
·Get a healthy balance
between your study and other significant aspects of your life. Map out how you
will use your 168 hours each week (e.g., sleep = 56; study = 40; domestic = X;
social = X; etc)
Use the library and computer labs
·They are a great place to do some work
while you are on campus.
Social
·Surround yourself with fun and interesting people so you’ll always
have good conversation, second opinions, and different perspectives of the
world.
·Make friends with other students in your course/ units; possibly
meet them for coffee or lunch between lec- tures.
·Put aside time to unwind with friends and family.
·Join a club or society, make time for your hobbies and interests.
·Join a mailing list relevant to your interests, it’s a good way to
stay in touch with what’s happening; e.g., unevents, Mature Students, Townies,
etc. There may be other lists that interest you.
Personal
·Look after yourself. Get
plenty of exercise, make time to relax and unwind, eat and sleep well, and have
access to a good doctor, counsellor or masseur.
· Returning
to study means that you will be investing time and energy in your study, home
routines change, and this can prove troublesome for partners, children and intimate
friends who were used to being the primary focus of the student’s time and
caring. Be prepared to discuss and negotiate areas of discontent. Communicate
as much as possible about what is happening in your lives. Plan study
timetables together and agree on times for recreation and fun.
·Believe in yourself. Have faith in
your abilities, try your best and hope for the best.
Ask for help when you need it.
The longer
you leave a problem, the bigger it can get. Tackling problems as soon as they
arise can often solve them. No-one will know you need help unless you
ask. Even if you think it’s a silly question, others may also have similar
issues, and besides, it’s better to feel a bit silly for a few moments than to
allow a problem to escalate.
Prepared By : Dr. Anu Parmar (First Year Coordinator)
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