Christine is a Master of Education student at the University of Southern Queensland, as well as a Primary School teacher. She shares her tips on how to multi-task, and the benefits of exercise whilst being a student.
I am currently studying a Master of Education with specialisation in Guidance and Counselling. I am half-way though the course, which I have been studying part-time and online. At the end of the course I hope to work as a school counsellor.
Exercise is key
My regular routine includes lots of exercise, healthy cereal breakfast, some work and lots of rest. I try to mix up my exercise routine to include different types of exercise because I want to stay motivated.
Some weeks I cycle 20km three times per week. Other weeks I have participated in 15km of walking, running or swimming activities. Either way I believe that participating in 2hrs of exercise per day for at least 3 days per week is not just essential to my mental health but also provides me with extra energy that helps with my concentration and focus.
On the two weekdays that I work as a primary school teacher, I do not exercise because I find that (and anyone that is a primary school teacher might agree) I’m run off my feet during the day and can clock up to 10,000 steps by 2pm!
On the other week days I concentrate on my studies.
Usually, on these weekday mornings, after I've had my large bowl of cereal and returned from my regular exercise, I take a long hot shower, wash and style my hair and get ready for a day of concentration and focus.
Breaking up study into stages
The first stage of my study process includes reading and watching any weekly lecture materials. Next, I take notes and answer questions related to the tutorial material. Lastly, I commence or continue working on my assignments.
For my assignments, my routine usually commences with an analysis of the assignment question, next I check the due dates and use Studiosity’s assignment calculator to help me with planning my assignment deadlines accurately.
Then it’s time to start reading and writing. I first conduct a literature search using key words related to the assignment question, and then refine my search using UniSQ’s library facilities.
I enter my reference findings into Endnote and begin reading and categorising notes from various articles and readings into my first draft.
Feedback & confidence boost
I then submit my first draft to Studiosity for analysis, feedback and a confidence boost. I ask for feedback on all possible aspects including structure, language, spelling and use of sources. The result is usually a huge confidence boost with feedback giving me clear directions about areas I should continue working on.
To me, the key to managing work, study and life is having a good night's sleep, regular exercise, and access to ethical study support.
Find out if your education provider offers Studiosity here.
