A University Survival Guide
I'm currently in my final year at Queen Mary University of London. And while I'm loving third year, there's no denying that it's been a stress-filled semester. I'm exhausted and constantly busy. I have deadlines and reading and rehearsals and am applying for grad schemes and have to go to work and exercise and socialise...it's gotten to that point where all I want is a good cry but I can't even find the time to do that!
I started this year on a "quit dicking about" note: I knew what I was in for and had been preparing for the very worst. I'd been told that third year was "the worst year of your entire life" and that "it's hell. Literally hell."
But, if I'm being honest, third year isn't all that hellish. Like, some days I barely have time to breathe because I have so much to do. However, as a part of my "quit dicking about" vow, I have forced myself to keep on top of my game - and I have done this via what I like to call my University Survival Guide.
"Survival" may be a bit extra but, hey, if it gets the job done, who am I to complain?
I'm going to be sharing some tips and strategies I've found useful in the course of my university career, especially during this final year. It's a way of working around the stress and exhaustion, being productive whilst also remaining positive and motivated.
FIND YOUR PLACE (OF STUDY)
You will work most productively if you are comfortable: if that means studying in bed, then do it! I can't be behind a desk for long periods of time; I get fidgety and restless and distracted and it all goes downhill. I like to take my laptop and move around: from my sofa, to the ground, even lying across the stairs! I feel as though my best ideas come to me when I move around a little bit. Hence, I get more done! You need to create a little work-sanctuary for yourself, wherever you feel most comfortable and motivated. If you do, you'll find that you feel more engaged in your work and are more productive.
BREAK IT DOWN
No, not breakdown - cba with that anymore: no time for it (literally)!
Something I find really useful is breaking down my assignments into small tasks because it lets me trick my mind into starting/finishing essays early. I think "ok, I have an hour...I'll research xyz." Specificity is key. Being able to tick little tasks off your to-do list is far more motivating than thinking "ok, I have an hour to start this whole assignment." It looks like you're making faster progress and keeps me on track and less overwhelmed. If you focus on specific targets, you're more inclined to reach your goal quickly.
BRIBERY WORKS: DO IT!
Bribery is the best form of motivation. Whatever it is - a night out, a cinema trip, a snack, or even just a few hours' nap - do it! You know what you can bribe yourself with to get work done. It's the best reward for hard work. Just make sure you keep your reward in check though: a twenty minute nap might accidentally turn into four hours of dangerously blissful sleep (speaking from experience).
GO OUTSIDE AND EXERCISE
This is probably going to sound like the worst advice ever, but the gym really makes me switch off. I don't think about uni, work, anything. I don't even mean to; it just happens naturally. If the gym isn't for you, even something as simple as going for a walk outside is essential. Fresh air helps clear your mind and the busy outdoors offers distraction for any stress you might be feeling. You can go home later and sit down with a more productive and positive attitude.
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