Going back to school as an adult can be exciting, but it may also seem scary, demanding, and even stressful. Here are some strategies and tips if you’ve decided to go back to school to ensure your success.
Have a designated space for studying
It’s important to have an environment conducive to studying. Maintaining a clean and quiet space will minimize distractions when it’s time to get to work. It’s also important to make sure that you have enough room for your computer, along with some desk space for you. Check that your audio, camera, and internet function properly in whatever space you choose. Figuring these things ahead of time will ensure you start your class on the right foot.
Know your learning style and work with it
Not everyone learns the same way. Some of us are visual learners, while others are auditory learners. Still many others are kinesthetic learners, meaning you are a hands-on learning and learn by doing. Knowing how you learn best can help you learn better. You can enhance your studying time by using methods that work best for your learning style. If you are a visual learner, you might want to watch some tutorial videos. If you’re an auditory learner, you might want to listen to your reading assignments instead actually reading them. And if you learn by doing, you may want to find a way to practice what you’re learning, so you can internalize the knowledge.
Read all the information available and ask questions
Be sure to read the information that is sent to you about your course or program. Find out how many chapters you should complete each week and how often you will have homework. Are there other requirements that need to be met before you can complete your program, such as an experience requirement? Finding out this information in the beginning will keep you on track and ensure that you finish your course or program with very few hiccups!
Create a plan to complete your course on time
Once you’ve done the reading and asked the questions, create your plan and put it on your calendar! This will help you stay on task and keep you from missing any key deadlines.
Take breaks
When you feel yourself getting burned out, take a break! It’s okay to get frustrated. Sometimes you just need time away to clear your head and then you’re able to dive back in and conquer whatever might have been giving you trouble before.
Tip: Take 5 minutes and listen to this guided meditation to feel refreshed.
Use your resources
If you’re having trouble with an assignment, check out your resource section, or reach out to your instructor or point of contact. If your graded assignments include feedback, read the feedback. It may help you understand a topic better.
Reward yourself for staying on track
Don’t forget to treat yourself every now and then. Going back to school is not easy, especially as an adult. Pat yourself for taking the initiative and reward yourself with something small that brightens your day!