TEN Tips to help you recover quickly from long learning sessions

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Balancing work, life, and family while returning to school can be challenging for many working professionals. As a result, time management becomes crucial. However, in the process of managing time, the learning aspect often suffers because work and family are non-negotiable priorities.

Photo by Dmitry Ratushny on Unsplash

Many students in this situation dedicate only a few hours on weekdays to their studies and then study for long hours during weekends and holidays to catch up. However, long study hours can lead to mental fatigue and hinder learning.

Learning is an exciting journey of personal and professional growth, but prolonged periods of intense study can be draining. Knowing how to quickly recover from demanding study sessions is essential to ensure effective and sustainable learning. Here are some strategies to help you bounce back with energy.

1. Take a Break

Breaks are integral to the learning process and should not be seen as mere pauses in your study routine. It’s essential to incorporate short, frequent breaks to allow your brain to rest and effectively consolidate the information you’ve been studying. One popular technique, the Pomodoro Technique, involves 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break. This approach has been proven to enhance productivity and prevent burnout, making it a valuable method to incorporate into your study routine.

2. Feed your Brain

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Did you know your brain consumes about 20% of your body’s energy? After a long learning session, it’s essential to refuel with nutritious foods like blueberries, which are packed with antioxidants, and nuts and seeds, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins. Additionally, incorporating fish into your diet can provide essential omega-3 fatty acids for brain health. Hydration is equally important, so it’s a good idea to keep a bottle of water handy and sip regularly to stay hydrated and help your brain function at its best.

3. Get Physical

Physical activity is an excellent method for resetting your mind and improving your overall well-being. When you exercise, it boosts blood flow and oxygen to the brain, facilitating the recovery process. Whether taking a brisk walk, practising yoga, or engaging in a quick workout, these activities can invigorate your body and bring mental clarity.

4. Mindfulness and Meditation

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Mindfulness, the practice of being fully present and aware of your thoughts and feelings, and meditation, the act of focusing your mind to achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state, have been shown to have significant benefits in reducing stress and improving cognitive function. By regularly engaging in these practices, individuals can experience a greater sense of calm and clarity, leading to improved information processing and retention in the brain. Mindfulness and meditation can help you better absorb and remember new information, enhancing overall cognitive performance.

5. The importance of Sleep

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Quality sleep is essential for memory consolidation, which is the process of strengthening and stabilizing new memories. During sleep, the brain processes and stores information from the day, making it easier to retrieve later. Aim to get 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to allow your brain to go through all the necessary sleep cycles, including deep sleep and REM sleep, which are essential for memory formation. By prioritizing quality sleep, you can support your brain’s ability to consolidate memories and enhance overall cognitive function.

6. Change Your Environment

Changing your surroundings can do wonders for your mental state. If you’ve been indoors for a while, step outside for fresh air or move to a different room. A new environment can stimulate your senses and rejuvenate your mind.

7. Do other things

Engaging in a different activity can benefit your brain by allowing it to transition to a new focus. Whether it involves playing a musical instrument, creating art through painting, or challenging yourself with puzzles, immersing yourself in a hobby can offer the mental respite necessary to recuperate from periods of intense learning.

8. Be Social

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Engaging in social activities such as chatting with friends or spending quality time with family members can be a valuable means to unwind and take a mental break from the pressures of studying. These interactions offer the opportunity to gain fresh outlooks and insights, fostering a sense of relaxation and rejuvenation.

9. Think about what you learnt

After completing your study sessions, setting aside dedicated time for reflection is important. Consider writing in a journal about the key concepts, insights, and challenges you encountered. This practice can assist in deepening your understanding, identifying areas that need further attention, and solidifying your grasp of the material.

10. Set Realistic Goals

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By setting realistic and attainable goals and then dividing your study material into smaller, more manageable sections, you can avoid the necessity for prolonged, exhausting study sessions. This method maintains a consistent pace and helps reduce cognitive overload, ensuring you can effectively absorb and retain the information.

Bouncing back from those long study sessions is all about finding balance. It’s knowing when to push through and when to take a breather. By working these tips into your routine, you can ensure that your learning is effective and enjoyable. Remember that long-term success depends on sustainability, so take care of your mind and body as you keep learning.

If you want to do an online degree programme, explore several specialised master’s/bachelor’s/PhD degree programmes that Robert Kennedy College offers through exclusive partnerships with top British universities. You could also get in touch with our team of Education Advisers on WhatsApp, who can have a look at your profile and give you some advice.

If you have already made up your mind, click here to apply.

DILO (A day in the life of) a master’s student

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Through the #DILO series of blog posts we have been bringing you insights into the life of our master’s students, sharing their thoughts and opinions, ups and downs, and key learning points during their online studies. The whole idea behind this series is to make you aware of realities of online studies, and help you in decision making.  

This week we take a look at a day in the life of our MBA student from University of Cumbria. Here is an insight and some words of wisdom from their own experience. 

An Introduction 

Which Uni are you studying with? 

University of Cumbria.

Which programme did you choose and why? 

Masters of Business Administration. I wanted the fluidity of the degree to be able to strategically move upward within organizations. 

The Study Plan 

How did you plan to study each module, and what was the reality? How many hours did/do you have to put in each day/or in a week? 

Prepare a study plan and pick a time of the day that works best for you

I followed the recommended guideline. I had some classmates who did the mandatory modules first, then took the modules that were aligned with their profession, but that would have prolonged the completion of the program.

I followed a mandatory two hours daily schedule, sometimes, three to four hours depending on the subject.

I would suggest however, to read through the course requirement at the beginning of the course to get an understanding of the requirement.

Begin early to draft the final assessment for the module and make revisions as the material becomes clearer.

What part of the day did/do you find most suitable to study? (e.g. early mornings, lunch break, evenings, weekends?) 

Allow yourself enough time for each
assignment

Morning hours and weekends were more practicable for me.

How much time did you devote for each assignment? 

It depends on the subject. Some familiar subjects were easier and more interesting and those that were challenging got extra attention. Roughly 3-4 days per assignment, inclusive of research, rough draft and final submission.

Travelling and Communication 

How did travelling impact your ability to study? 

Initially, travelling impacted study times. It required major adjustment to after work schedule and infringement on family time. It really came down to prioritizing what was important at that particular time.

How were you able to interact with peers and/or professors given the time differences? 

The interaction with the different time zones was a bit of negative factor for me. One had to keep in mind the time differences and make the adjustments.

A typical day as a master’s student 

What does a typical day as an Online Masters’ student look like for you? 

Getting up a little earlier to put in extra time, when it is quiet in the morning. Listening to podcast on related materials during breaks and the long drive home.

Any advice? 

Take advantage of every opportunity.

Make a structured daily schedule that includes two hours of daily studies. Break it up if necessary.

Most importantly during overwhelming and difficult periods… take a break.. take a deep breath… and start again.

Have a core group of people in the program that you can interact with, share and exchange information.

Well indeed, incredibly helpful advice. To get you through the master’s studies we have a great faculty who are subject-matter experts, guide and encourage the students to achieve their potential.  

If you have been dreaming of joining a master’s programme or have had this personal goal to gain a higher education, now is the time! Take the valuable advice from our current students, gain from their experience, add your own unique study strategies, and make your own success stories! I would love to feature you one day on our college blog. 

Chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on all the programmes we offer, application process, and for information on discounts we might be offering at this time. 

DILO (A day in the life of) a RKC’s master’s student – Michael Watyoka

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Through the #DILO series of blog posts, we have been bringing you insights into the life of our master’s students, sharing their thoughts and opinions, ups and downs, and key learning points during their online studies. The whole idea behind this series is to make you aware of the realities of online studies and aid you in decision making.   

This week we take a look  at a day in the life of one of our master’s degree student, Michael. Here are a few insights and some words of wisdom that Michael has to share from his own experience:  

There is no better way to learn than from those who came before and see if what worked for them. It will help you become a better student and, hopefully, help you make an informed decision.

An Introduction

Which programme did you choose and why?

University of Cumbria’s MBA Masters of Business Administration in Finance and sustainability.

The Study Plan

How did you plan to study each module, and what was the reality? For example, how many hours did/do you have to put in each day/or in a week?

I wanted to complete the programme in 12 months. Since l had limited financial resources coming from Africa – Zimbabwe to be precise, l choose to fully concentrate on my Master’s and take a break from work. So I was studying full-time. Since I had a 12 months period deadline set, I was studying more than 15 hours everyday so as that I finish the programme in my stipulated time.

Photo by Jessica Lewis on Unsplash.

What part of the day did/do you find most suitable to study? (e.g. early mornings, lunch break, evenings, weekends?)

Keeping my target in mind of completing the programme in 12 months, l would study from 9 am until 8pm with some breaks in between. So l can’t say any particular time of the day – it was a big sacrifice.

How much time did you devote to each assignment?

When l started every module, I would go straight to the final assessment question, then will start to approach it, so that I will be ready by the time of submission which is normally after 12 weeks

Travelling and Communication

How did travelling impact your ability to study?

I had less travelling so it didn’t impact so much.

How were you able to interact with peers and/or professors given the time differences?

The time zone or difference had little impact since in Africa, there are seasons will be l hour ahead or the same time zone with Zurich.

A typical day as a master’s student

What does a typical day as an Online master’s student look like for you?

It was like a normal college day for me since I was reading or researching. l was always busy.

Any advice?

Any advice you have for students to better plan their studies.

I put planning as the first thing. Working hard and discipline are the key pillars of success. l was studying sometimes 3 modules per term or 2 modules including dissertation. If you want a 12 months program, you must be prepared to sacrifice.

We at Robert Kennedy College are here to support you through the entire process and encourage you to get in touch with our team of Education Advisors and chat with them Live on WhatsApp if you have any questions about our programmes, fee structure, the application process, or details on discounts we might be offering at this time.

If you have already made up your mind and are ready to apply, then just click here.

DILO (A day in the life of) a master’s student – Peter Cross

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Sometimes, the fear of the unknown is more of a hindrance in achieving your end goal. Once you are past this fear and are well informed, it is just a matter of planning your path. Similar is the plight of students who want to study of online but face the fear of the unknown, such as : What is the best way to study online? Should you do an online programme? How to better manage time when learning online? And so on. 

These are all questions that we at Robert Kennedy College (RKC) get regularly asked by students looking to join one of our online programmes. Undertaking to do an online master’s degree programme will be an additional commitment to your time and finances, and it is wise to get information beforehand.

Through this continuing series of blog posts, some of our past and current students have shared their experiences, thoughts and opinions and given their feedback on handling some of these choices and situations. Hopefully, this will help you to make an informed decision.

This time we have an alumnus from the York St John University and Robert Kennedy College, MBA Leadership Innovation and Change programme, Peter Cross. 

An Introduction

Which Uni are you studying with?

York St John University

Which programme did you choose and why?

MBA Leadership Innovation and Change

The Study Plan

How did you plan to study each module, and what was the reality? For example, how many hours did/do you have to put in each day/or in a week?

I studied minimum twelve hours per week. I work better under pressure.

What part of the day did/do you find most suitable to study? (e.g. early mornings, lunch break, evenings, weekends?)

During the week i.e Monday to Friday I devoted my lunchtime and evenings towards studies. Over the weekend, I generally studied most afternoons and evenings.

Photo credit: Canva.com

How much time did you devote to each assignment?

I had a systematic approach to each assignment and had objectives for the end week but always took advantage of the full time allotted. 

Travelling and Communication

Photo credit: Unsplash.com

How did travelling impact your ability to study?

I commute to work by train. I utilized my time commuting to and from work by train and it really helped early on in my studies.

How were you able to interact with peers and/or professors given the time differences?

The forums were very useful and after the residency, a few of us joined an informal WhatsApp group and became friends outside of the course which continues even now.

Photo credit: Canva.com

Peers were a wonderful source of support. Professors also responded very timely to questions, whilst being the best at stimulating discussion on module’s relevant topics.

A typical day as a master’s student

What does a typical day as an Online Masters’ student look like for you?

Maybe read research papers during commute by train and arrive to office at 9 am. At lunchtime, I leave my desk and go to my favorite reading place in the office. I continue work in afternoon and return to my favorite reading place latest by 6pm for 1-2 hours to read. Then I travel back to home and relax for the evening.

At weekends, I relax with family in the morning. I continued research for at least five hours on Saturday and Sunday during the afternoon and in evening at my favorite reading place at home. I would usually take some time out to be with family.

I was ruthless sticking to this routine, even when we had visitors.

Any advice?

Any advice you have for students to better plan their studies.

Having an environment to read comfortably and uninterrupted is crucial. Find your favorite space at home and around work where you can consistently slip away to study and so that people around you get used to you not being available to them.

Give yourself an opportunity to get into a constructive routine and ensure you love going to your favorite study place, perhaps taking a coffee with you. It makes the difference when studying difficult topics.

Photo credit: Canva.com

A to the point and practical advice by our alumni – go grab a cup of coffee (or tea)! I hope this blog has answered some of your questions, and provided that motivational boost to your academic plans. You can also chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on all the programmes we offer and the application process.

Navigating the Future: Top 5 Trends to Expect in 2024

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As we step into the promising realm of 2024, the world is poised for transformative changes across various domains. Technological advancements, societal shifts, and global challenges are shaping the landscape of the future. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top five trends that are likely to define and influence the year 2024.

The Rise of Sustainable Technology

One of the most significant trends to watch in 2024 is the accelerated adoption of sustainable technologies. With a growing awareness of climate change and environmental issues, industries are increasingly investing in eco-friendly solutions. From renewable energy sources like solar and wind power to electric vehicles and sustainable packaging, technology is playing a pivotal role in creating a greener and more sustainable future. Expect to see breakthroughs in clean energy, efficient waste management systems, and innovations that contribute to a circular economy.

The Evolution of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation

AI and automation have been on an upward trajectory for several years, and 2024 will see these technologies reaching new heights. Intelligent automation, machine learning, and natural language processing will become more sophisticated, leading to increased efficiency across various industries.

From personalized customer experiences to streamlined business operations, AI will continue to transform the way we live and work. However, ethical considerations and responsible AI practices will also become crucial topics of discussion, ensuring that these technologies are deployed ethically and inclusively.

Digital Health Revolution

The global pandemic has accelerated the digitization of healthcare, and in 2024, we can expect a digital health revolution. Telemedicine, wearable health tech, and AI-driven diagnostics will become more prevalent, offering personalized and accessible healthcare solutions. Remote patient monitoring, virtual consultations, and health-focused apps will empower individuals to take control of their well-being. The integration of big data in healthcare will enable predictive analytics, leading to more effective disease prevention and early intervention strategies.

Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and Blockchain

Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and blockchain technologies are poised to disrupt traditional financial systems in 2024.

Blockchain’s transparent and secure nature will continue to gain traction in sectors beyond cryptocurrency, such as supply chain management, voting systems, and identity verification. DeFi, which leverages blockchain to recreate and improve upon traditional financial services, will provide more inclusive and accessible banking solutions. Expect innovations in decentralized exchanges, lending platforms, and new financial instruments that challenge the status quo.

Cultural Shifts in Remote Work and Flexible Work Arrangements

The way we work underwent a profound transformation during the pandemic, and in 2024, we will witness a continuation of this trend. Remote work and flexible work arrangements will become more ingrained in corporate cultures. Companies will focus on optimizing hybrid work models, leveraging advanced collaboration tools, and prioritizing employee well-being. The physical office space may undergo a reimagining, serving as collaborative hubs rather than mandatory daily destinations. This shift will impact not only how businesses operate but also the work-life balance and career expectations of individuals.

The year 2024 promises to be a dynamic and transformative period marked by advancements in technology, a heightened focus on sustainability, and a reshaping of societal norms. From the rise of sustainable technology to the evolution of AI, digital health, blockchain, and changes in work dynamics, these trends will shape the way we live and interact with the world around us. As we navigate through these transformative times, it’s essential to embrace innovation responsibly and ensure that progress benefits all of humanity. The future is exciting, and staying informed about these trends will help individuals and businesses adapt and thrive in the years to come.

Navigate your future towards stability, success in your career by joining our online Master’s and PhD. programme. Speak to one of our advisors to know more about the admission process, intake information and fee details.

#DILO (A day in the life of) a master’s student

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Through the #DILO series of blog posts, we have been bringing you insights into the life of our master’s students, sharing their thoughts and opinions, ups and downs, and key learning points during their online studies. The whole idea behind this series is to make you aware of the realities of online studies and help you in making a decision.

This week, we look at a day in the life of one of our MSc Human Resource Management and Development student. Let’s hear about his experience studying for an online master’s degree programme.

An Introduction

Which university are you studying with?

University of Salford (UoS)

Which programme did you choose and why?

MSHRD – the field that I am currently working.

Who you are, really?

A proud RKC student 🙂

The Study Plan

Image credit: canva.com

How did you plan to study each module, and what was the reality? How many hours did/do you have to put in each day/or in a week?

It was very hard planning to study as I have my own business and children. I panned two hours a day/ 3 days a week for studies. This time was not enough for me. Realistically, I should have put at least 10 hours every week for studies and research.

What part of the day did/do you find most suitable to study? (e.g. early mornings, lunch break, evenings, weekends?)

Evenings and weekends.

How much time did you devote for each assignment?

Each assignment took me the time allotted. Simply put, I started on the research as soon as I received the topic. and sometimes, it seemed as if the three weeks was not enough.

Travelling and Communication

Image credit: canva.com

How did travelling impact your ability to study?

I did not have to travel a lot so it did not impact me.

How were you able to interact with peers and/or professors given the time differences?

It was difficult. In my situation, there were two classes where I met two other ladies that lived not very far from my house, so it was easy to have study sessions. In dealing with professors, I usually emailed with questions and always got a prompt response back. Studying online is always a challenge as the face to face is never there.

A typical day as a master’s student

What does a typical day as an Online Masters’ student look like for you?

In the morning it starts with work and maybe during the day, if not busy at work, will work on research for my paper and then in the evenings, will spend a couple of hours with my reading and then on weekends will work on my paper.

Any advice you have for students to better plan their studies

Image credit: canva.com

Start from day one. Don’t procrastinate as 3 weeks goes by very fast. The material is a lot of go over and then you have the work to do. Keep in touch with your professor and ask any questions you have for clarifications as you work on your assignments. Reach out to peers, as they can be helpful as well. Usually peers will create a WhatsApp group, be a part of it..it makes it seem as if you are in a classroom…as it can be very noisy. A great program. Goodluck and I wish you well.

If you are considering getting your master’s degree, now would be an excellent time to take the plunge. Look at our programme list and see if we have anything that could help.

I hope this blog has answered some of your questions, and please watch this place for more similar blogs. You can also chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on all the programmes we offer, the application process, and the discounts we might offer.

Exciting New Announcement – RKC is now offering a PhD programme!

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It is a dream come true moment for several doctorate programme aspirants, who anxiously awaited the launch of PhD programme at Robert Kennedy College. Well, the wait is now over!

Robert Kennedy College proudly offers an online PhD programme in collaboration with the University of Gloucestershire. 

The University of Gloucestershire was founded in 1847 and holds its title and degree-awarding authority from His Majesty’s Most Honourable Privy Council. It is globallyrecognised.

University of Gloucestershire

The PhD programme, intended to boost your career achievement, is a simple 2 stage programme.

Programme Description

Stage 1: RKC’s Executive Diploma in Advanced Research. The requirements to join are a master’s degree in any discipline, with priority given to Robert Kennedy College graduates. Course duration: 3 to 6 months. 

Stage 2: On completion of Stage 1, advance to the University of Gloucestershire’s PhD programme through a successful online interview, with a primary focus on dissertation writing in 1 to 6 years. 

Why choose a PhD with Robert Kennedy College and the University of Gloucestershire?

Robert Kennedy College, Zurich

Worldwide Recognition: The British doctorate awarded by University of Gloucestershire is accredited by British government and is respected globally.

100% online flexible learning: Whether you are a busy professional or a busy parent, this programme will fit into your hectic schedule seamlessly allowing you to maintain a balance between professional, personal and academic lives.

Duration: Executive Diploma in Advanced Research can be completed in 3-6 months at Robert Kennedy College. Upon successful completion of the diploma, advance to the University of Gloucestershire’s PhD programme through a successful online interview, with a primary focus on dissertation writing in 1 to 6 years.

Specialization options: The programme offers diverse specialisations such as Strategic and Digital Marketing, Law, Accounting and Business Strategy.

Dedicated mentorship: Students receive dedicated support and guidance throughout their academic journey.

How to Enrol:

Stage 1

Executive Diploma in Advanced Research requires a Master’s degree in any discipline, with priority given to Robert Kennedy College graduates. Click here to apply for the programme.

Stage 2

University of Gloucestershire PhD. Entry to this programme is through completing Robert Kennedy College’s Executive Diploma in Advanced Research programme (stage 1) and being interviewed online by your supervisory team.

Programme Outline

Stage 1
Executive Diploma in Advanced Research

• Philosophy and Approaches to Research • Methodologies and Methods

Stage 2
University of Gloucestershire PhD

Individual Dissertation Supervision: Benefit from personalised guidance and supervision at the University by two supervisors, ensuring a focused and supportive environment for your doctoral research.

Tuition fee and payment plan

Stage 1 – Executive Diploma in Advanced Research

The total tuition fee is 7000 CHF. For RKC graduates, we offer an exclusive tuition rate of 6000 CHF, equivalent to approximately US$ 6800. This all-inclusive fee can be conveniently divided into six interest-free monthly instalments of 1000 CHF each.

Stage 2 – University of Gloucestershire PhD

The annual fee for 2024/5, after completing the diploma, is 6400 CHF approx US$ 7367. Non-UK residents receive a £ 2000 fee waiver of the published international fees.

Embark on your academic journey and apply online for the PhD programme today. For the fee If you still have any questions, one of our education advisors will guide you through the requirements and admission process.

Acing Homework: 5 Strategies for Effective Management

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Homework and assignments serves as a vital link between classroom learning and independent study, though managing the workload can pose challenges. Adopting effective strategies transforms the homework experience into a more manageable and gratifying task.

This blog post explores five strategies to help you master the art of homework management.

Establish a schedule

Successful homework management hinges on creating a practical and achievable schedule. Begin by listing all assignments and their due dates. Prioritize tasks based on urgency and complexity. Allocate dedicated time slots for homework in your schedule, maintaining a healthy balance with other commitments. Consistency is key; adhering closely to your schedule fosters a productive routine.

Break it down

Tackling a substantial assignment can be overwhelming. Instead of trying to complete it in one go, break it into smaller, more manageable tasks.

Develop a checklist outlining the steps needed to finish the assignment, focusing on one task at a time. This not only reduces the daunting nature of the work but also enables effective progress tracking. Celebrate each small accomplishment, contributing to the overall completion of the assignment.

Designate a Productive Workspace

Your environment significantly influences your ability to concentrate and be productive. Designate a dedicated workspace for homework that is free from distractions. Ensure it is well-lit, organized, and comfortable. Associating this space with focus and productivity helps create a conducive atmosphere. Keep all necessary materials within reach to minimize interruptions and consider using tools like noise-canceling headphones.

Employ Time Management Techniques

Utilizing time management techniques can greatly enhance homework efficiency. The Pomodoro Technique, for instance, involves focused, 25-minute intervals followed by a 5-minute break. After four cycles, take a longer break. This method sustains concentration and prevents burnout. Experiment with different techniques to find the one that suits your work style and enhances productivity.

Seek Assistance and Collaborate

 Do not hesitate to seek help when encountering challenges. If a specific concept or assignment proves difficult, reach out to classmates, teachers, or online resources. Collaborating with peers enhances understanding and fosters a sense of community and support. Teaching others can deepen your comprehension of the subject matter. Embrace collaboration to enrich your learning experience.

Effective homework management requires a blend of organizational skills, time management, and a proactive approach. By establishing a realistic schedule, breaking tasks into manageable portions, optimizing your workspace, employing time management techniques, and seeking collaboration, you can transform homework from a stressor into a fulfilling and enriching learning experience. Implementing these strategies not only improves academic performance but also instills habits beneficial throughout your educational journey.

DILO (A day in the life of) of RKC master’s student

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Through the #DILO series of blog posts we have been bringing you insights into the life of our master’s students, sharing their thoughts and opinions, ups and downs, and key learning points during their online studies. The whole idea behind this series is to make you aware of realities of online studies, and help you in decision making.  

This week we take a look at a day in the life of one of our excited MBA student, on the way to complete the MBA programme. Let’s hear his experience studying for Master’s of Business Administration:

An Introduction 

Which Uni are you studying with? 

University of Cumbria

Which programme did you choose and why? 

I chose the MBA programme. I wanted the fluidity of the degree to be able to strategically move upward within organizations.

The Study Plan 

How did you plan to study each module, and what was the reality? How many hours did/do you have to put in each day/or in a week? 

I followed the recommended guideline. I had some classmates who did the mandatory modules first, then took the modules that were aligned with their profession, but that would have prolonged the completion of the program.

There was a mandatory two hours daily schedule, sometimes, three to four hours depending on the subject. I would suggest however, to read through the course requirement at the beginning of the course to get an understanding of the requirement.

Begin early to draft the final assessment for the module and make revisions as the material becomes clearer.

Prepare a study plan and pick a time of the day that works best for you

What part of the day did/do you find most suitable to study? (e.g. early mornings, lunch break, evenings, weekends?) 

Morning hours and weekends were more practicable for me.

How much time did you devote for each assignment? 

I would say it depends on the subject. Familiar subjects were easier and more interesting, those that were challenging got extra attention. Roughly 3-4 days per assignment, inclusive of research, rough draft and then final submission.

Travelling and Communication 

How did travelling impact your ability to study? 

Initially, travelling impacted study times. It required major adjustment to after-work schedule and infringement on family time. It eventually came down to prioritizing what was important at that particular time.

How were you able to interact with peers and/or professors given the time differences? 

The interaction with the different time zones was tricky. One had to keep in mind the time differences and make the adjustments.

A typical day as a master’s student 

What does a typical day as an Online Masters’ student look like for you? 

Getting up a little earlier to put in extra time, when it is quiet in the morning. Listening to podcast on related materials during breaks and the long drive home.

Any advice? 

Take advantage of every opportunity. Make a structured daily schedule that includes two hours of daily studies. Break it up if necessary. Most importantly during overwhelming and difficult periods… take a break.. take a deep breath… and start again.

Have a core group of people in the program that you can interact with, share and exchange information.

If you have been dreaming of joining a master’s programme or have had this personal goal to gain a higher education, now is the time! Take the valuable advice from our current students, gain from their experience, add your own unique study strategies, and make your own success stories!

Chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on all the programmes we offer, application process, and for information on discounts we might be offering at this time. 

#DILO (A day in the life of) a master’s student

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Through the #DILO series of blog posts, we have been bringing you insights into the life of our master’s students, sharing their thoughts and opinions, ups and downs, and key learning points during their online studies. The whole idea behind this series is to make you aware of the realities of online studies and help you in making a decision.

This week, we look at a day in the life of one of our MSc students and a Supply Chain Officer by profession. Let’s hear about his experience studying for an online master’s degree programme.

An Introduction

Which university are you studying with?

University of Salford (UoS)

Which programme did you choose and why?

MSc in Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain Management. Having been in supply chain management for well over 20 years, I felt that acquiring advanced qualifications would enhance my unique capabilities in supply chain management. My overall goal is to offer consulting services independently as a consultant or contractor.

Who you are, really?

I am a Supply Chain Officer (Procurement). My brief involves acquiring goods, works, services, consulting and non-consulting services for a project funded by the World Bank in the energy sector.

The Study Plan

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How did you plan to study each module, and what was the reality? How many hours did/do you have to put in each day/or in a week?

By allocating at least three hours daily for each unit in the morning and after a day’s work, spending weekends studying and sometimes reading up to midnight to catch up with the tutorial offered by UoS and RKC. By adhering to my study schedule, it worked for me.

What part of the day did/do you find most suitable to study? (e.g. early mornings, lunch break, evenings, weekends?)

Early mornings and an hour or two in the evening. On Saturday, I spent the whole day studying and on Sundays, half a day.

How much time did you devote for each assignment?

I devoted at least a week to full-time revision, drafting, and finalising the assignment of the work schedule.

Travelling and Communication

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How did travelling impact your ability to study?

Much of it is positive. However, there was one episode in which I was negatively impacted when, on an overseas travel, I experienced network problems and, unlucky, fell unwell for a whole week during the final submission time.

How were you able to interact with peers and/or professors given the time differences?

Ensuring I respond to all posts and participate actively when I have time. Every time after work, I went through all posts and submitted my posts to any forum discussions.

A typical day as a master’s student

What does a typical day as an Online Masters’ student look like for you?

Extremely busy for me. However, the programme was very flexible, which helped with my tight work schedule.

Any advice you have for students to better plan their studies

Image credit: canva.com

One has to have an interest in the studies. This is quite self-motivating and gives one the impetus to keep studying despite the challenges of a busy work schedule.

If you are considering getting your master’s degree, now would be an excellent time to take the plunge. Look at our programme list and see if we have anything that could help.

I hope this blog has answered some of your questions, and please watch this place for more similar blogs. You can also chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on all the programmes we offer, the application process, and the discounts we might offer.

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