Taking a break from studies for any length of time can be somewhat disorientating. Many of us need a routine and trying to recover an old one can be daunting. But don’t worry, there are many things you can do at Warwick to make this process as seamless as possible…
Summer holidays are over and in the next two weeks, thousands of undergraduate students will be moving to their accommodation for the beginning of a new academic year. Getting used to academic life after a few months of break and relaxation could be challenging and, as a result, many could face procrastination. Although we cannot extend holidays, we can offer some tips on how to make a smooth transition.
1. Join Societies or Sports Teams
This may seem slightly counterintuitive, as most people don’t join societies to aid their studies, but this actually can be a fantastic way to reintegrate yourself back into the Warwick community. Much of our ability to study, and productivity, is based on our wellbeing and overall happiness. If you can associate university with the enjoyment you get from societies, you will be a lot more at ease when you make that trip to the library. If you live off-campus, having a regular commitment on-campus may mean that you are more likely to go to the library or another learning space before or after your club.
There are over 250 Societies currently registered at the Warwick Students’ Union. Joining is easy and you can do it online, or at the Societies Fair which will take place during Freshers’ Week. Equally, there are many Sports Clubs offered at Warwick for all abilities. You can find a full list here, and don’t forget to also attend the Sports Fair.
2. Establish a Routine
A solid routine helps you feel in control of everything. When exams and deadlines are looming, losing focus and stress should be avoided as much as possible. If you have established a routine of studying, you will feel more prepared when the pressure is at its heaviest. Plus, having a routine will allow you to make time for things that are important to you – not just studying. In order to feel relaxed and motivated, do make time for other things as well.
Routines at Warwick can be whatever you like. Perhaps catching the same bus every morning, grabbing a coffee when you arrive on campus or heading to the gym at the new Sports and Wellness Hub.
Having your routine outlined on your wall, or stored in your calendar on your phone, can help tremendously. Todolist and Streaks are great apps for your phone that will aid your organisation and make sure you never miss out anything from your daily routine.
3. Get advice from your Personal Tutor
Your personal tutor is your first point of contact with university staff. You have a mandatory meeting with your tutor every term to gain a monitoring point, but you can arrange additional appointments as you want. Your tutor will have a breadth of experience in talking to students about their academic and personal circumstances. Thus, they are well-placed to give you tips on studying and getting back into your routine. What’s more, they will be able to give you subject-specific advice which may be particularly useful.
Remember not to put too much pressure on yourself after returning from a break in studying. There are plenty of ways to ease the difficulties, and seek advice from your Personal Tutor if you are still struggling.