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.
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.
Photo credit: Canva.com
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
Photo credit: Unsplash.com
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
Photo credit: Canva.com
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.
Photo credit: Canva.com
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.
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.
Photo credit: Canva.com
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
Photo credit: Unsplash.com
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.
Photo credit: Canva.com
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.
Photo credit: Canva.com
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.
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.
The career landscape constantly evolves, influenced by technological advancements, shifting societal needs, and economic trends. As 2023 is fast coming to an end, staying ahead of the curve and considering career choices that align with future demands is essential. In this blog, we will explore the top five career choices of 2023, offering insights into the fields that are likely to thrive in the coming years.
Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
In today’s data-driven world, data science and artificial intelligence are at the forefront of technological innovation. Companies across various industries are harnessing the power of data to make informed decisions and improve their operations. Data scientists and AI specialists are in high demand to develop algorithms, analyse data, and create intelligent systems. If you have a knack for mathematics and programming and a passion for problem-solving, a data science or AI career could be your ticket to success in 2023 and beyond.
As a result of the widespread use of these technologies by companies seeking a competitive edge, artificial intelligence and machine learning have already begun to revolutionise the corporate sector. Join Robert Kennedy College and study one of our more sought-after Data Sciences and AI programs.
Data scientists and AI specialists are in high demand to develop algorithms, analyse data, and create intelligent systems.
The MBA in Artificial Intelligence is designed to provide you with the abilities and knowledge needed to handle the complexities resulting from a world driven by artificial intelligence. Through modules on Information Management, Artificial Intelligence, and Data Analytics, you can learn about the main problems arising from using AI technologies, how AI affects management and business strategy, and the steps executives should take when developing a strategy for their company. The MBA programmes benefit significantly from the internationality derived from recruiting students from across the globe and drawing on tutors well qualified in their field.
Sustainable Energy and Environmental Sciences
The demand for sustainable energy and environmental sciences professionals is skyrocketing as the world faces increasing environmental challenges. Careers in renewable energy, environmental conservation, and sustainability management are rising. Whether you’re interested in designing eco-friendly buildings, developing clean energy solutions, or conserving natural resources, these fields offer a chance to impact the planet while securing a promising career.
At Robert Kennedy College, we offer just the programme that will help you secure that promising career in sustainable energy – the MBA Energy and Sustainability programme. This MBA programme aims to allow you to engage in an experience that will enhance your ability to develop and lead a sustainability agenda focusing on change in the energy sector. It can act as a catalyst for your knowledge and infuse new perspectives into your professional goals. Talk to one of our dedicated education advisors live on WhatsApp to learn more about the programme and the admission requirements.
Healthcare and Biotechnology
The healthcare industry has always been a stable career choice, but recent events have highlighted its critical societal role. In 2023, careers in healthcare and biotechnology are not only about doctors and nurses but also encompass roles in healthcare technology, pharmaceuticals, telemedicine, and genetic research. With an ageing population and ongoing medical advancements, these careers offer job security and growth opportunities.
If healthcare is the sector in which you want to excel and carve your future, then look no further. Robert Kennedy College offers a competitive master’s programme in Healthcare management. You can choose from the two courses offered – the International Healthcare Management programme and the Public Health Management programme.
With an ageing population and ongoing medical advancements, healthcare careers offer job security and growth opportunities.
To ensure that you acquire and put into practice the skills you need to succeed in today’s complicated healthcare environment, the curriculum was created in conjunction with active industry experts. You will obtain useful knowledge while enrolled in the program through project work that is directly related to industry, professional job experience, and a curriculum that focuses on real-world and current topics in healthcare administration. Download the catalogue here to gather more information about these programmes.
Cybersecurity and Information Security
In an increasingly digital world, cybersecurity has become a paramount concern. With the rise in cyber threats and data breaches, organisations invest heavily in safeguarding their information. Cybersecurity professionals, including ethical hackers, security analysts, and risk assessors, are in high demand. If you possess a strong understanding of computer systems and a passion for protecting data, a career in cybersecurity could be both rewarding and lucrative.
Cybersecurity professionals, including ethical hackers, security analysts, and risk assessors, are in high demand.
You can level your game by studying the MSc Information Systems Management programme. You will have the chance to gain a thorough understanding of the function that information systems and technology (IS/T) play in organisations worldwide, as well as a critical awareness of current and upcoming concerns in this constantly evolving industry through this course. Apply online now and graduate by September 2024.
Creative Industries and Content Creation
The creative industries have been evolving rapidly, driven by the internet and digital media. Careers in content creation, digital marketing, graphic design, video production, and social media management are flourishing. Brands and businesses constantly seek unique, engaging content to connect with their audiences. If you have a flair for creativity and a knack for storytelling, a career in the creative industry could offer you the freedom to express yourself while enjoying a fulfilling career.
The fast development of digital media over the past few years has completely changed how businesses do their marketing, enabling them to target clients individually. As a result, the nature of work and how it is done today have changed, inspiring both firms and business schools to change how marketing is perceived as a separate activity.
If you dream of joining this rapidly changing industry, consider enrolling in one of our Digital Business programmes. Learn more about the programme and the flexible fee payment plan we offer.
You’ll think about many business sectors impacted by technological advancements, such as autonomous delivery vehicles, new types of money, ambient beacons and sensing technologies, and increasingly individualised workplace and social experiences. We have a proven track record of bringing together students and proprietors of digital businesses to address business issues and conduct real-world projects or work-based learning.
As we navigate the ever-changing career landscape of 2023, staying adaptable and open to learning new skills is essential. The top career choices mentioned above reflect the current trends and demands of the job market, but they are not static. Technology will continue to advance, and societal needs will evolve, creating new opportunities and challenges.
Ultimately, your best career choice in 2023 should align with your skills, passions, and long-term goals. Whichever path you choose, continuous learning and adaptability will be your greatest assets in building a successful and rewarding career in the years to come.
The first thing anyone interested in enrolling for higher education in a college or University does is to check its legitimacy. And no surprises here, this is one of the top questions our education advisors get asked all the time – Tell me more about the college and partnership with British universities.
So, here is everything you need to know about RKC!
Number one of Number one: Who are we? An Introduction
Robert Kennedy College is a private educational institution based in Zürich, Switzerland. The College is a pioneer in Swiss quality online education offering rigorous but flexible learning programmes, through enhanced state of the art online e-learning technology that has been developed in-house entirely.
Exclusive Partnerships
The Robert Kennedy College online master’s and bachelor’s programmes are offered in an exclusive partnership with the University of Cumbria, the University of Salford, and York St John University
Student focused teaching
RKC’s online learning community greatly values and invests in each of its student. Here you get an opportunity to be a part of a prestigious international community of over 5000 students from 130 different countries and some world-class faculty. Chat with our education advisor to get your customized study plan.
World-class faculty
As a student at RKC, you will learn from some of best professors in the education field.
RKC’s dean Dr. iur. David Costa is one of the founders of Robert Kennedy College. In his current capacity as Dean of Faculty, he oversees the faculty review process and several of the college’s academic programmes. He lectures at Robert Kennedy College in Contracts Law, Transnational Business Law, Investment Law and Money Management, and is a frequent guest on business TV channels such as CNBC Europe and Bloomberg Television.
Our instructors are graduates from some of the best universities worldwide. Other key faculty members are Prof. David Duffil, Dr. Radu Negoescu, Dr. Alistair Benson and, Emeritus Prof. Gabriel Jacobs.
Unique course plan with one-week residency
Our programmes combine best of both worlds by offering Swiss quality education online via OnlineCampus with one-week residencies. The one-week residency represents a unique opportunity for students to work in groups, focus on case studies and get a head start for their dissertation. Residency offers a great opportunity to interact with fellow students and professors and learn from professional experiences of students from all over the world. Chat with our education advisor to get your customized study plan.
Worldwide recognition
One of the best advantages of studying master’s at RKC is that at the end of the programme, an internationally recognised full-time British degree is awarded by the University.
The University of Cumbria, University of Salford and York St John University are fully recognised by the British Government and duly listed on the United Kingdom’s Department for Education list of recognised UK awarding institutions. You can verify their official University status directly at the UK Government Website.
Flexible payment plans
At RKC we understand the importance of work-study-life balance. This is why we offer flexible payment plan where you can pay fees in interest free instalments. Check out the sample payment plan here.
The most beautiful time of the year is here! It’s merry and bright with the town’s festivities, decorations, hustle, and bustle. It is almost the end of the year, and everyone wants to enjoy some time off, relax, take break from studies and work, and spend time with their families, friends, neighbours, and colleagues. Seems like all jovial and merry time to me! However, are holidays always like that?
Photo Credit: Canva.com
Well, the demands of the holiday season – shopping, cooking elaborate festive menus with exotic dishes (thanks to social media..), baking, cleaning, entertaining, and making the season its festive best (and the list is exhaustive…phew!) – can prove to be an overwhelming time.
One of my friends told me she was planning to bake 12 cakes, one for each of her neighbours with whom she is a good friend. Her husband suggested buying cakes instead, but she wanted to give a personal touch to her gift. Wow! I am sure after baking 12 cakes, she has become a professional baker. On top of this, she had a “Secret Santa” gift exchange at work, and her kids had to do a gift exchange at their school. Well, online shopping helped her save a lot of time, but one can never wholly escape visiting the stores physically.
Photo credit: Canva.com
I experience the same mixed feelings of excitement and pressure around festive times. While I love decorating my house, I get stressed about getting the best colour-coordinated decorations and, of course, not to mention matching Holiday sweaters for all my family. I love entertaining my friends and family at my house, but the whole process of planning, preparation and execution exhaust me.
It is advised not to get carried away with anxiety about holiday preparations. It is better to prioritise what is essential for you, keeping in view the traditions.
Photo credit: Canva.com
Here are some helpful tips you can follow to keep stress at bay and enjoy the festivities:
Plan ahead – Start your preparations in advance to stay ahead in the game. Plan, prepare and stock food for cooking and baking, and start shopping weeks in advance to avoid the last-minute rush. You will be better able to enjoy time with family and friends.
Ask for help – Please know that you are not in this alone. Other family members, friends and colleagues would love to give a helping hand, assist you with getting groceries, driving around, wrapping presents, or decorating.
Be organized – The key to stress-free holidays is to be super-organized. Make lists of tasks and set reminders to keep you on track.
Set holiday budget – I know we are still reeling under the effect of Covid-19, and inflation is at an all-time high. We all want to make the season as festive as possible, don’t we? Under these trying times, set strict financial budgets for holiday shopping and stick to them. Think of innovative ideas to save some $$ like buying when discounts are on, buying collective gifts, organising potluck instead of doing all cooking etc.
Don’t forget to breathe and exercise – Take a deep breath whenever you feel overwhelmed. With all the merry drinks and sugary cakes you will be eating, exercising will help keep those extra calories at bay. Also, exercising is relaxing and boosts new energy.
Photo credit: Canva.com
There is a lot of cultural pressure around the holidays, especially now that social media forces us to compare ourselves with the idealised notions of the holidays. I would suggest, earmark a day and some of your budget, to volunteer at a food bank, volunteer a day at a retirement home taking gifts for the elderly, or donate to a charity. Knowing that you brought smile to someone’s face and made a difference in their lives, will immensely lift your spirit (holiday spirit)! Be mindful and emphatic towards those who are struggling this holiday season.
Ultimately, it is all about sharing, giving, loving, and spending time with our loved ones – the essence of the holiday season.
On this note, I wish all our readers Happy Holidays! Be merry, and do not worry 🙂
It’s 2022 and everyone is busy making new resolutions for the year. If you are looking for some inspiration and guidance on how the online studies of Master’s look like, look no further. We continue with our blog series bringing you answers to some of the questions we at Robert Kennedy College (RKC) frequently get from students looking to join one of our online programmes. We asked some of our past and current students to share their thoughts and opinions, to give their feedback on how they handled online learning challenges. Hopefully, this will, in turn, help you make an informed decision.
I believe learning is a life-long process. You never know when an opportunity to learn is thrown your way. Would you grab the opportunity, or would you think it’s too late to learn and study?
Who you are, really?
My name is Ramona F.
Which Uni are you studying at?
University of Cumbria
Which programme did you choose and why?
Online MBA International Healthcare Management. I am a Registered nurse who wanted to have more of a formal training as a nurse manager.
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 work three days most weeks and I usually plan to use two days for studying. But most of the time, life happens and I have to boycott that plan and burn the midnight oil and not sleep to meet the study deadlines.
PC: Unsplash.com
What part of the day did/do you find most suitable to study? (e.g., early mornings, lunch break, evenings, weekends?)
Weekends worked better for me.
How did travelling impact your ability to study?
Not much. I usually would study at home due to my work demands.
How were you able to interact with peers and/or professors given the time differences?
I would interact with peers and professors through the forums, WhatsApp groups and email or phone calls. I stayed up late to meet others in different time zones.
How much time did you devote to each assignment?
As much as I could afford. Sometimes a whole 24 hour day was just used by default to try to get the work done on time.
PC: Unsplash.com
What does a typical day as an Online Masters’ student look like for you?
Working a 12 to 14 hours shift, getting home and making dinner and helping your kid with homework. Then staying up after hours to do assignments. In nutshell there was no rest mostly.
Any advice you have for students to better plan their studies?
You can do it! Here are my two cents:
1. Get the cumbria/RKC account set up to your mobile, so that you can participate in forums while not at home and see deadlines or any changes. 2. Print a copy of the weekly assignments with deadlines and strike off as they are completed. 3. Reach out to your course peers. 4. Let the lecturer know if you are facing any difficulty. 5. No question is stupid! 6. Try to get the required textbook. 7. Read several sources 8. Use peer reviewed sources whether it’s required or not. 9. Get access to the UOC library.
Good luck!
PC: Canva.com
If you have been dreaming of joining a master’s programme or have had this personal goal to gain a higher degree, now is the time! Take valuable advice from our current students, gain from their experience, add your 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, the application process, and for information on discounts we might be offering at this time.
There are only eight days left this year. Some of you must be reflecting on how they fared on their resolutions for the year, while others will be setting new resolutions for the new year 2022. I know it’s been an extremely challenging year for everyone around the world; with Covid-19 restrictions, life has not been ‘normal’ for the longest time. And it’s far from over. I do not mean to end 2021 on a sad note. On the bright side, there are still last few days left of 2021 to do something meaningful and progressive in your life. If starting a master’s degree has been one of the resolutions for 2020, it’s still not too late. You can still embark on the journey before the year ends.
Everyone looks for “the right time” to start something new in their life. And when it’s about starting an online masters, there are many factors to consider, such as work-life balance, flexibility at work, financial factors etc.
Here are three reasons why it’s a good time to start your master’s right now:
ACCOMPLISH YOUR RESOLUTION
As I mentioned above, it’s never too late to accomplish your ultimate goals. While you may procrastinate or become complacent with your goals or even postpone them for next year, you might regret the decision one day. So, take a quick decision and enrol yourself for the master’s degree programme. Applying for the master’s is simple. The process involves applying online and providing us with necessary documents like your CV and highest education certificate.
Accomplish your resolution to attain master’s education
CHRISTMAS PROMOTION DISCOUNT OFFER
We are currently offering special Christmas promotion until 26th December. With this limited-time offer, you can start with a deposit of just 500 Swiss Francs and receive a discount of 1000 Swiss Francs. (Yes, you saw that right!).
Or if you pay between 25% and 50% of the fees in advance, you can receive a discount of 1500 Swiss Francs, or if you pay 100% of the fees in advance, the discount is 2000 Swiss Francs. You can find more details on this page where you can also convert the fees to your local currency: https://chf.help/#/christmas
Save money with our Christmas promotion offer
STUDY AT UNIVERSITY RECOGNISED BY THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT
Put your mind at rest as the University of Cumbria, the University of Salford and York St John University are fully accredited by the British government and duly listed on the United Kingdom’s Department for Education list of recognised UK awarding institutions. You can verify their official University status directly at the UK government website.
So, above are three of the many reasons you should start your master’s degree now. Talk to our advisors on WhatsApp, who can guide you through the admission process.
Let me know in the comments section below your reason for starting the master’s programme!
Ever wondered why we tend to say “yes” to people when we really don’t want to? Blame it on human psychology or human beings being social animals. We find it extremely difficult to say no to anyone.
We adore attention and feel gratified when others admire us, trust and look up to us. But when this takes the form of constant requests and more work for yourself, you detest being the go-to person. People want to say yes because they are afraid, afraid to disappoint others. We feel personally responsible for letting others down if we decline their proposition or their request for help. During these troubled times, with businesses being in jeopardy, everyone is overwhelmed, constantly working, and juggling work and relationships. Everyone is over-extended, and it is not the best soil to grow ideas or make sound business decisions.
Are you saying a “good yes” or a “bad yes”?
What begins as an intent to help becomes a bad “yes” – simply because you do not have the productive capacity or knowledge to complete the task. Such a “yes” is bound for failure. When there is so much asking around in an organisation and collaborative overload, one should focus on moving to good yesses and good nos to avoid failures.
How to say No?
You have decided that you are going to turn down someone’s request to undertake a task. Now comes the even more difficult part: actually saying “no”! How do you effectively communicate your decision?
Begin with a positive statement by appreciating the opportunity extended your way, that you were considered worthy enough to do justice to the job. But present your “but” in a way that shows you have carefully considered the proposition and convey the “why” of your decision. Let them realise that you did not decide to say no lightly, that the “no” was not because you are lazy, un-zealous to learn, or simply being difficult.
Saying no can be an onerous process but trust me, it will prove to be more productive for yourself and the business. Base your decision on this checklist:
1. Do not let fear decide
If you fear that saying “no” will stress your work relationship, remember that saying “yes” when you cannot deliver the results will stress you and the relationship even more. If the working relationship turns sour just because you said “no”, then it was never meant to be. Let it go.
A decision taken under duress leads to stress on oneself and on work relationships
2. Evaluate the proposition
I know from personal experience when we are new to an organisation or a job, we are eager to learn because knowledge is power. Gain that power but keeping in view the quality you are gaining. Ask yourself what ‘value addition’ can you get from this task. Ask questions such as why, when, and what is needed for the task. Doing due diligence on someone’s request is respecting them and yourself.
3. Remember what you want to be known for
What may seem like an opportunity to learn for you could become an opportunity for others to learn a thing or two about you. When you say “no”, back it up with legitimate and fair reasons, tell them why the proposition is not worth your time or effort or simply that you do not have that kind of time to invest in this project. You already have enough on your plate. When the other person: your boss, your client, your colleague, hears your side of the story, they will understand your situation, and you will become known for your work ethics and values. You will be known for authenticity and for being a good decision-maker. Everyone will respect your decision when you say “no” the next time because they will know there is a genuine reason behind it, and it’s just not a lack of interest or laziness involved. They will even bring better propositions to you that you will find difficult to turn down. They will try to please you and not the other way round.
When you say “yes” to someone’s request, you commit to executing and delivering results.
4. Deliver results
The only consideration that should drive your professional decisions should be results. When you say “yes” to someone’s request, you commit to executing and delivering results. You do not want to be in a position where you realise later that either you cannot, are not allowed to, or should not do so. Do not bite more than you can chew. Do not be hard on yourself thinking that you are being difficult. Convey that you are making a good business decision.
5. Provide options
While it is not easy to say “no” to someone who had high hopes on your saying “yes” and was relying on you for completing the task, remember that people come to you because you are a problem-solver and are resourceful. If you cannot do the job yourself, give them other options on how to complete the job or provide solutions to resolve the issue. It will save your time and help build trust with team members that learnt something valuable when they approached you.
You can also choose to defer the project instead of completely shutting it down. Offer them a plan where you can join the team at a later stage and be more valuable once the project’s gone past its conception stage.
6. Don’t be afraid to say the ‘C’ word
The majority of the time, bosses try to use influence to get things done. Little do they realise that when they use power, they lose influence.
Photo credit: Canva.com
Every employer has a budget, and the more he can get done without expending his budget, the better (the lesser the merrier, in this case). This is one of the most frustrating and de-motivating situations when you are asked to deliver more results and but are not “C”ompensated for that extra work. You might say “yes” to the extra load now and then, just to be nice or on the pretext of learning something new, or simply because the boss asked you to do so, but this will eventually burn you out. Be firm to tell the work is simply beyond your pay scale and justifies an extra dollar or two.
It is a misconception that you must be a “Yes Man” or a “Yes Woman” to be successful and boost your career. Remember Jim Carrey’s movie – Yes Man? The film is a classic story where the protagonist is encouraged and made to promise to answer “Yes!” to every opportunity, request, or invitation that presents itself. After a series of interesting events in his life, he realises that the covenant was merely a starting point to open his mind to other possibilities, not to permanently take away his ability to say no if he needed to.
So, are you the go-to person at your workplace? Do you always end up saying yes? How do you strategically say no?
