Returning to education after time away can be a daunting experience, however it can also be essential for opening up new career opportunities that will allow you to improve your lifestyle.
Whether you left education to grow your career or tend to your family, taking the next step in your higher education journey can be rewarding.
So, if you’re thinking of returning to university, then here are just five fantastic tips to help you see academic success.
1. Set Clear Goals
In order to keep on track with your studies, it’s important that you set clear and achievable goals.
Take the time to understand what it is you hope to gain from your return to education. Are you hoping to switch careers, or do you simply want to pursue a passion?
Once you understand your main ambitions, break these up into smaller and more actionable steps. That way every time you complete a small goal you’ll help to improve your motivation and confidence.
2. Consider Distance Learning
In most cases, the responsibilities that you had before you returned to university don’t disappear once you enrol. This means that the rigid structure of a traditional campus setting can be incompatible with a busy life.
However, with distance learning courses, such as the PhD in Public Administration from Signum Magnum College, you can fit your learning around your other commitments.
The flexibility that is offered by distance learning is ideal for both working professionals and busy parents, making education more accessible.
3. Be Realistic with Your Schedule
When creating a schedule for your learning, either with online courses where everything is up to you, or traditional learning where you’ll have to ensure that you find the time to complete your assignments, it’s important that you’re realistic.
If you have other responsibilities, then it can be hard to find study time. However, if you’re a parent for example, you could consider engaging with your learning once you’ve put your kids to bed.
Task tracking apps, such as Remember the Milk, are a great way for you to manage your personal, professional, and academic time, ensuring that you don’t miss any deadlines.
4. Seek Support and Network
Returning to education can be a great way to expand both your personal and professional network, as well as enabling you to seek academic and career support.
Make use of all the resources that your university has to offer, and take the time to get to know your peers and tutors. The relationships that you build and guidance that you receive at university can be incredibly valuable after you graduate.
And, with platforms such as LinkedIn, you can reconnect with your peers once you leave your studies, and this can help to open up a wide range of career opportunities.
5. Stay Positive and Be Patient
Returning to education won’t be without its challenges, and this makes it essential to try and retain a positive mindset.
When you embrace the art of positive thinking, you’ll have a better chance of managing your stress.
And remember, education takes time, so be patient with your learning and try not to worry if grasping certain concepts takes time.
Have you returned to education after a break? Share your experiences in the comments below!
