Library & Learning Services

Hello! As I approach the end of my degree, life has gotten very busy with assessments, my scoping study dissertation, working multiple roles, and applying for placements. Whilst I am highly motivated and driven around my academic work, I can sometimes forget the importance of a study life balance.

My 2024 New Year goals are to complete my dissertation by the end of January to allow me some time to enjoy beginning to learn a new hobby before semester 2 assessments are due in March and April.

My goal is to begin learning to play the harmonica. This hobby is one I have been keen to learn over the last few years as I am not skilled in playing an instrument and I am determined to tick it off my list before I graduate so I can play late fathers’ harmonica when I celebrate my graduation. I also plan on continuing my new routine of going to the gym to ensure I keep my study life balance. 

• First and foremost, my main goal is to pass my final year and Nationals to allow me to be a fully qualified PA.  
• Spend less time on my phone – I am one of many who spends too much time scrolling on their phone and I really want to be more present with friends and family.  Maybe I will even have time to read some books in the evening too which will help me sleep better.  As a bonus I will have more revision time!  
• Procrastinate less – I am very good at procrastinating and whilst a show home standard house with a clean car and all admin tasks completed is lovely, it is not going to help pass my exams or write my coursework.  This is going to be the hardest goal for me but time blocking will hopefully help.   
• Review what went well and what did not go well last year so I know what to change and what to keep the same this year for revision, manging workload and coursework so I can achieve the same marks or higher this year.  
• Being kinder to myself – I am a perfectionist when it comes to work, and this can impact my mental health.  It really is hard to achieve the best you can when you aren’t mentally at your best so it is important to give yourself a break (but not too long otherwise the procrastination kicks in) so your brain is not in work mode all the time. The same can be said for physical health too, so if you see me in the gym, you know why!    

My goal for 2024 is to achieve a better study life balance. Developing strong academic skills is essential for maintaining a healthy study-life balance. Effective time management, critical thinking, and research abilities contribute significantly to academic success while allowing individuals to allocate time for personal and recreational activities. By honing these skills, students can enhance their productivity, streamline their study routines, and reduce stress associated with academic demands.

Moreover, fostering good organisational habits and efficient note-taking techniques can contribute to a more balanced and fulfilling student life. Striking the right equilibrium between academic commitments and personal interests is crucial for overall well-being, and acquiring these skills equips individuals with the tools needed to navigate the challenges of academic life while enjoying a harmonious and enriching college experience. 

 
One effective tip is to create a detailed weekly schedule that includes dedicated time blocks for both academic and personal activities. Start by identifying your academic commitments such as classes, study sessions, and assignment deadlines. Once these are established, allocate specific time slots for personal pursuits, exercise, socialising, and relaxation. Treat these personal commitments with the same level of importance as your academic ones.

Having a structured schedule helps you visualise and manage your time more effectively, ensuring that you allocate sufficient hours to both academic responsibilities and personal well-being. Throughout my time studying, reviewing and adjusting your schedule as needed, adapting to changes in your workload or personal priorities. This proactive approach will not only help you stay organised but also contribute to a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. 

Hi, I’m Lauren and I am a 1^st year Media student. I am now approaching my 2^nd semester at university and with this comes more work, experiences, and time for reflections. As part of my 2024 academic study goals, I aim to:  

• Maintain a good work/life balance, by using all of the facilities on campus to their full potential for both academic use and leisure activities. 
• Stay motivated by reflecting back and learning from my previous achievements at university so far. 
• Improve my time management by setting my own deadlines for sections of my work, to help break down big assignments and minimise any last minute stress. 
• Not be afraid to continue reaching out for help from my tutors, for clarity and guidance, to help expand my potential in all of my work here at EHU. 

Hopefully, by sticking to these study goals, as well as making time for myself and the things I enjoy e.g., listening to music and going to museums (and much more…), I will set myself up for success in 2024.