TWELVE Good Habits to Develop While Self-Studying

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During my younger years, I would honestly admit that I struggled as a student. Outside the classroom, I rarely picked up a book to study and often lacked the motivation. My attention would easily wander, whether I was distracted by the allure of watching TV, hanging out with friends, or simply daydreaming about far-off adventures. Education felt like a chore rather than an exciting opportunity, so I missed out on much of what could have enriched my learning experience.

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Self-study presents a powerful opportunity to acquire new skills and expand your knowledge, whether for academic pursuits or personal growth. This approach allows learners to tailor their education to their interests and pace. However, to successfully navigate this independent learning journey, one must demonstrate strong discipline, maintain a high level of motivation, and employ effective strategies that enhance understanding and retention of the material.

According to me, here are 12 good habits to develop while self-studying:

(1) Define Your Goals with Precision and Clarity

Setting clear and specific goals is essential for effective self-study. Define what you aim to achieve in each study session, whether it involves mastering a particular topic, completing a set of exercises, or preparing for an exam. Break down your goals into manageable tasks and establish deadlines to help keep yourself on track.

(2) Establish a Study Schedule

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Creating a well-organized study schedule allows you to manage your time effectively and ensures that you cover all necessary material. Set aside specific time slots for studying each subject, and adhere to your schedule as closely as possible. Consistency is essential for developing a solid study routine.

(3) Choose a Suitable Study Environment

Your study environment significantly influences your ability to concentrate and retain information. Choose a quiet, comfortable space with minimal distractions. Ensure your study area is well-lit and organised, with all the necessary materials easily accessible.

(4) Use Active Learning Techniques

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Active learning is an academic approach that emphasises engaging with educational material to facilitate deeper understanding and improved retention of information. This approach encourages learners to actively participate in their education rather than passively receiving information. Here are some effective techniques for active learning:

  • Summarising: After studying a topic, take the time to write a summary in your own words. This could involve distilling key concepts, main ideas, and essential details into a concise format. By articulating your understanding, you reinforce your learning and make it easier to recall the material later.
  • Questioning: Develop a habit of asking questions about the material you are learning. This could include inquiries such as “What are the main arguments?” or “How does this concept relate to what I already know?” Attempt to answer these questions yourself. This process helps to clarify your understanding and identify areas where you may need further study.
  • Teaching: One of the most effective methods of reinforcing knowledge is to teach what you’ve learned to someone else. You can explain the concepts to a study partner, a friend, or even an imaginary class. Teaching forces you to organise your thoughts, address potential gaps in your understanding, and convey information clearly.
  • Practice Problems: Engage with the material by solving relevant practice problems or exercises. This technique is especially useful in subjects like mathematics and sciences, where applying concepts to practical scenarios enhances comprehension. Regularly working through problems helps solidify your understanding and improve your ability to apply knowledge in various contexts.

By incorporating these active learning techniques into your study routine, you can enhance your grasp of the material and promote better long-term retention of information.

(5) Take Regular Breaks

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Studying for extended periods without breaks can result in burnout and reduced productivity. To prevent this, consider studying for 25 to 30 minutes, then taking a 5-minute break. After completing four study sessions, take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes. This practice helps to maintain your focus and energy levels.

(6) Stay Organised

To enhance your study experience, create a well-organized system for your study materials, notes, and resources. Consider using colourful folders, sturdy binders, or efficient digital tools to categorise and store your items neatly. A decluttered study space combined with thoughtfully arranged materials will make it easier to find what you need at a moment’s notice and significantly reduce stress. When everything is in its place, you can focus better and engage more fully with your studies.

(7) Stay Healthy

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Your overall physical and mental health is crucial to your ability to study effectively. To optimise your academic performance, prioritise getting enough restorative sleep each night, as this helps sharpen your focus and retention of information. Fuel your body with balanced and nutritious meals rich in vitamins and minerals to sustain energy throughout your study sessions. Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine, as exercise boosts your mood and enhances cognitive function. Additionally, consider practising mindfulness or meditation; these techniques can be incredibly beneficial in managing stress and fostering a positive and resilient mindset as you navigate your studies.

(8) Use a Variety of Resources

Avoid relying exclusively on a single type of learning resource. Instead, engage with diverse materials, such as comprehensive textbooks, interactive online courses, informative videos, and insightful podcasts. This multifaceted approach will provide you with a richer understanding of the subject. Each resource presents unique perspectives and explanations, which can illuminate complex concepts and make them easier to comprehend. Exploring different formats will enhance your ability to absorb and integrate the information effectively.

(9) Review and Revise Regularly

Consistent review and revision are vital to deeply embedding the knowledge you’ve acquired and uncovering any areas where your understanding may be lacking. Dedicate a specific time each week to thoroughly examine your notes and revisit past subjects. Engaging with the material in this way strengthens your grasp of the concepts and enhances your ability to retain information over the long term. Regularly engaging with your studies will pave the way for a more comprehensive and lasting understanding of the subject matter.

(10) Feedback and Support

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Don’t hesitate to seek feedback and support from those around you. Consider joining study groups where you can collaborate with fellow students, share ideas, and tackle challenging concepts together. Engaging in online forums allows you to connect with a broader community, ask questions, and exchange knowledge. Also, don’t hesitate to approach your teachers or peers for assistance when encountering difficulties. Having discussions with others can offer fresh perspectives and help clarify any uncertainties you may have, leading to a deeper understanding of the material.

(11) Stay Motivated

Maintaining motivation during solo study sessions can be quite a challenge. To make it easier, break your work into small, manageable milestones and treat yourself when you accomplish them, whether enjoying a favourite snack or taking a short break. Keep your long-term goals at the forefront of your mind, and reflect on the aspirations that drive your educational journey. Surround yourself with positive influences, such as friends or family who encourage you, and seek inspiration from uplifting success stories or powerful motivational quotes that resonate with you. These strategies can help create a supportive and encouraging study environment, making it easier to stay focused and motivated.

(12) Limit Distractions

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To improve your concentration during study sessions, it’s essential to minimise distractions. Begin by silencing notifications on your devices, ensuring your phone, tablet, and computer won’t interrupt your focus with beeps or alerts. Consider using specialised applications that block access to distracting websites, such as social media or entertainment platforms, keeping your attention on your studies. Additionally, communicate with those around you—let friends, family, or housemates know that you are in a study period so they can help by keeping noise to a minimum and avoiding unnecessary interruptions. By creating a distraction-free environment, you can transform your study sessions into highly productive and effective periods of learning.

Hopefully, incorporating these habits into your self-study routine can make a difference in how you learn and help you reach your goals more easily. Self-study is an exciting journey that takes time and patience, so be kind to yourself along the way! It’s all about staying persistent and being open to trying new things. Enjoy the process, and happy studying!

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 chat live 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 an RKC Student – Nicola M

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Through the #DILO series of blog posts, we have been bringing you insights into our master’s students’ lives, 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 decision making.    

Here are a few insights and some words of wisdom that one of our online master’s students had to share from her own experience. 

Which Uni are you studying at?  

University of Cumbria

University of Cumbria

Which programme did you choose?  

MBA in Educational Leadership

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 took one module per term – based on 10 hours study per week, except for a mid-term and end-term assignments when an additional 10 hours over the weekend was necessary.


In addition, I devoted an extra 4 hours per week, every week towards my assignment, except for the final term when I was studying on an average of 3 – 4 hours per day to complete it.

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

I usually studied evenings and weekends to fit around my full-time employment.

How did travelling impact your ability to study?  

Travelling did not impact my studies at all.

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

Yes – emails was the common means of communication for me.

How much time did you devote for each assignment?  

I typically spent recommended 20 hours/week for each assignment.

Emails was an effective means of communication

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

I would goto full time work as normal every weekday, return and eat supper. Then I would study for 3 hours each evening. At the weekend, I spent at least one full day studying, with extra reading for about 3 hours on a Sunday.

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

My advice will be to read as much as you are able to before you get into the module as then the time for each element becomes very short and you are expected to read and learn information very quickly in order to respond on the group message board.

It is much better to prepare well and not leave anything until the last moment – remember sometimes ‘Turn It In’ can take 24 hours to respond!

If you have been thinking of joining a master’s programme or have had this personal goal to gain a higher degree, 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 master’s degree student

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In our ongoing blog series, we address common questions from students interested in joining our online programs at Robert Kennedy College (RKC). To provide valuable insights, we have gathered feedback from our past and current students on how they navigated the challenges of online learning. We hope that their experiences will assist you in making an informed decision.

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Let’s learn from those who came before and see if what worked for them will help you become a better student!

An Introduction

Which Uni are you studying with?

York St John University

Which programme did you choose and why?

I studied MBA in Leadership and Management. I chose it because I am a finance person, but I work with the operations unit, which oversees the running of the office. Leadership and management skills are needed to manage people.

Who you are, really?

I am a proud RKC student 🙂

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?

My course is an online one. I mostly study on weekends and sometimes weekdays in the office when everyone has left. I usually listen to lectures and make my own notes. In total, I put in more than 10 hours a week because I also have to do research, listen to videos over and over, and read relevant textbooks.

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

Weekends, early mornings, and late evenings. Weekdays, late evenings after work in the office when everyone has left. I usually stay back for at least 2 hours.

How much time did you devote for each assignment?

For you to get a passing mark, you need to do proper research and understand your subject matter. So, I had to drop some social commitments and devote more time to my studies.

Travelling and Communication

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How did travelling impact your ability to study?

I am studying online, so travelling does not impact me.

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

There was a module that needed group interaction, and my fellow students were leaving in 2 different time zones, but we were able to agree on a time to meet. Time differences did not affect my interaction with my professors, as they always responded to me in time and could be reached whenever needed.

A typical day as a master’s student

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

A typical day for me starts early, at about 5:30 a.m., on weekends, with me going to our University website, listening to videos, and reading the online materials. On weekdays, it also starts at 5:30 a.m., when I get ready for work. I work until 6:00 p.m., and then I spend two hours, sometimes more, in the office studying.

Any advice you have for students to better plan their studies

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The best advice I can give to students is

  1. Find a time in the day for up to 2 hours to concentrate on your studies.
  2. Reduce social activities, especially if you are working and studying simultaneously.
  3. If you don’t understand the instructions for an assignment, try asking a lot of questions to your professor. I had to retake a module because I misunderstood the instructions.
  4. Find a fellow student in your course who can discuss some topics for better understanding.
  5. Learn to submit assignments 2/3 days before the deadline. You might get an unexpected internet challenge uploading your assignment at the last minute and miss the deadline by a few minutes, which will give you a capped mark.

If you have been thinking about getting an online degree, and proving to yourself and others that you CAN do it, now would be an excellent time to take the plunge. Have a look at our list of programmes 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.

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

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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. 

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 a charismatic, authentic leader and scholar, alumni from University of Cumbria.

An Introduction

Which Uni are you studying with?

University of Cumbria

Which programme did you choose and why?

Master’s of Business Administration – because I believe in understanding enterprise end-to-end including its critical resources – which are – people. The only way to gain such understanding is by studying the general MBA.

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?

The plan was to tackle each module soonest or even before we formally commence with it; it did not always happen that way due to other commitments such as work, family etc; I did on average utilised at least 3.5 to 4.5 hours daily for studying.

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

There was no preferred time for me; I would read as my brain demanded at any time of the day.

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How much time did you devote to each assignment?

I dedicated an average of 4.5 hours per day to deal with my studies.

Travelling and Communication

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How did travelling impact your ability to study?

Travelling did affect negatively because when you travel the concentration reduces, Therefore, at times I found myself behind my reading/studying schedule.

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

The platform we utilise plays a quintessential role because discussions remain on the forum for further peruse if one misses the class; this did eliminate the issues of time differences. On the other hand, my City’s time is in line with UK time so I did not have problem as such

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

It remains busy typically; I am naturally a busy person juggling amongst gym, work, family and martial arts, so studying only was just another exercise added to the many others I already had. Mind you however, that some people found it odd the way I live. But it is normal to me.

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

They need to be relentless, dedicated and create time for their studies. Time is always a scarce resource, insufficient for its demand hence one must really ensure that study time is created and preserved else, they would not make it.

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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.

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

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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 University of Cumbria and Robert Kennedy College, MBA programme, June Hay. 

An Introduction

Which Uni are you studying with?

University of Cumbria

Which programme did you choose and why?

Masters of Business Administration

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?

Each Monday morning I would check the requirements for the modules I was registered into. I would then plan my week accordingly.

I put in about 20 hours a week for each module, plus some extra time when completing the assignments, mid-term or final. Each week I tried to respond on the discussion board by Wednesday and then would respond to others on the discussion in the latter part of the week.

Of course, sometimes life gets in the way, and I would have to put in more time one week, to make up for the time I missed due to other obligations.

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

I work best in the morning, so this is my preferred time when possible. To study in the evening I would often go to the local library for a quieter atmosphere that at home.

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How much time did you devote to each assignment?

Probably more than I should have! It depended on the amount of research that was needed for each assignment. On an average about 20 – 30 hours for mid-terms and 40 – 60 hours for finals, with the exception of the residency with the final assignment after returning – I’m guessing I spent closer to 120 hours on that final.

Travelling and Communication

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How did travelling impact your ability to study?

Difficult due to disparate bandwidth availability. Having said that, it was often an opportunity on the plane or between flights to study during quiet times.

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

The five hour time difference between Ontario Canada and Switzerland was a bit of a problem, especially trying to get assignments in on time. Just needed to be more conscious about that.

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A typical day as a master’s student

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

Because I work best in the morning, I would get my coffee and start by checking the discussion boards and making note of what I needed to give a response.

I mapped out my reading for the week, and so would spend my allotted time doing the reading and listening to webcasts. By Wednesday each week, I would put my contribution to the discussion board.

Any advice?

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

Make a schedule early on to get the mid-term and final assignments completed.

Create files on your computer to keep your modules, assignments, and research organised so that when you are completing your assignments you can easily find your materials. I noticed that many students did not participate in the discussion boards, and I think they missed a valuable part of the learning. And potentially we missed out on their experience and perspective that they may have shared with the rest of the class.

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A to the point and practical advice by our alumni. 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.

DILO – A day in the life of an RKC student – Robert C

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As a former Education advisor, if I had to pick one of the most frequently asked questions by prospective students, it would be “How many hours do I need to study?”  

The vast majority (if not all) of our students are working and leading hectic professional lives. Some are motivated and have already decided to undertake a master’s, while others contemplate the unknowns of an online programme. In my experience, two things affect their decision the most.   

First – finances, and second, being able to strike the perfect work, study, and life balance. While I cannot completely help you with the finances (partially yes – check out the discount offers currently being offered on our online MBA, MSc, and LL.M programmes), I thought what I could do to help was to bring some facts to light about the other unknowns – what does a typical day in the life of an online master’s student look like?  

I asked a few of our students from different walks of life, occupations, and personal situations to answer a few questions on their study tactics and strategies, plans and reality, and so on.  So, through our ‘#DILO ‘a typical day in the life of a master’s student’ blog series, we bring to you one of our actual students or alumni sharing the insights.   

Today, we’re looking at  Robert’s typical study days. Robert studied Master’s of Business Administration programme from University of Cumbria.

An Introduction  

Which programme did you choose and why?  

I chose an MBA programme in International Business in order to boost my wealth of knowledge for conducting business through a wider lens that could help me steer the company and any new initiatives to greater heights from an informed foundation.

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 usually read, research or write on an average 4-5 hours per night during the week and 6-8 hours on the weekend. I would begin my studies after returning from work, after dinner close to about 9 pm.

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

I found morning hours very apt especially if the assigned time implied adjusting your wake-up schedule and morning routine. Moreover, the weekends were more productive for me.

How much time did you devote for each assignment?  

Depending on the assignments, I would spend minimum one day on an average for completing assignments.

Travelling and Communication  

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

The forum is a great tool however, most professors are available through email which made communication very easy and effective.

A typical day as a master’s student  

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

A typical dat would be like this: Wake early.. ready emails and forum posts, gather information for assignments if necessary. Once home from work begin reading, research or writing. Weekends are different as I have the whole day to manage my time. I generally aim to end my weekend studies by 4 pm

Any advice?  

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

Yes a few!

Ask many questions to ensure they have all information needed to help manage time.

Stay ahead of reading assignments.

Read all suggested and mandatory articles while monitoring external news sources to support learning objectives

Stay focused and positive— keep your end goals in kind at all times and know that the sacrifices will soon pay off

Alright friends, this was a sneak peek of a typical day in  Robert’s life as a master’s student. I hope you find it insightful and informative and that it gives you an idea of what to expect when you enrol for our master’s programmes. Watch this space as we have many more interesting insights coming up! 

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.

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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.

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