Recently, a friend of mine informed me that his son’s school had mandated two yoga sessions a day as they believe it will help keep the body and mind active, which will help the students in their learning. This got me thinking – does yoga help you study better?
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Now I know there are numerous benefits of practising yoga – several studies claim to have proven this. For the heck of it and, hopefully, for the benefit of our students and readers, I decided to research how yoga can benefit students in learning.
What is yoga?
For those unaware of what yoga is, according to Yogapedia, yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in ancient India around 400 C.E. The practice aims to create a union between body, mind and spirit. Modern yoga is most commonly associated with the physical practice of asana, a series of postures often weaved together in styles such as Vinyasa Flow or Ashtanga. Asana practice is generally intended to build strength and stamina, to improve flexibility, coordination and balance, and to relax the body.
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The following are five benefits students can get from practising yoga to help them study better.
Stress buster. Stress is an unavoidable part of life. Not finding a balance between work, family, and school can contribute to stress. Research shows that yoga is one way that many students better balance the stresses of being so busy.
Networking. Yoga is usually a group activity. If you have a few of your fellow students or even some of the college faculty living close by, you could make it a group activity and leverage it to develop friendships and your professional network. For those of you studying online, post the COVID lockdown, several reputed yoga instructors conduct classes online and even apps that can help manage the activity. So it is possible to build relationships online.
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Concentration. While initially, yoga can be difficult on the body, like any activity, once your muscles get used to the movement, it can be quite meditative. Focusing on breathing and slow movements can help clear the mind and give it a break from otherwise stressful daily activities. Students with a clear, focused mind can concentrate better during classes, reading and long study hours.
Posture. Yoga was developed in ancient India by gurus who spent long hours meditating and sitting still in a single place (usually on a hard surface on the ground). If any of you have meditated for any period, you will know how difficult it can be – you can get easily distracted, your body will start hurting in unexpected places, and previously unknown muscles will start to cramp. Yoga was a way for these gurus to combat this and help them meditate for longer periods. As a result, yoga will not only help you improve your core strength and endurance, but it will also help you improve your posture and enable you to sit and focus on your work/studies for a long time.
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Family. With our busy lives and schedules, spending time with family can be difficult. Unfortunately, family time is usually the most compromised of all the activities in our lives. We have work deadlines, deadlines to submit assignments for school, and even time put aside to be stuck in traffic. If we fall behind on any of our deadlines, the only time we can make up without consequences is our family time. This is a mistake. Family time is the most important time we have, for it is for family that we do what we do. Yoga is an activity that people of all ages can participate in, so why not make yoga part of your family time?
If you are a student and finding it difficult to cope with the stress that comes with it, I hope you give yoga a try. Maybe it will help you become a better student and help you attain a better work-life balance.
If you are looking to start studying again and are looking to join a 100% online master’s degree programme, then consider joining our globally recognised master’s degree programmes. Look at our list of programmes and see if we have anything you are interested in doing.
You can also chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on the programme that is right for you, the application process, and details on discounts we might offer.
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?
Today, we’re looking at June’s typical study days. June, an RKC & University of Cumbria’s graduate, offered us these answers:
An Introduction
Which programme did you choose and why?
I chose MBA programme as it matched my work experience and that is what I wanted to do after graduation.
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?
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.
To study in the evening June would often go to the local library for a quieter atmosphere that at home.
How much time did you devote for 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 assignment.
Travelling and Communication
Did you travel for work? How did travelling impact your ability to study?
Studying would become 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 bit of a problem, especially trying to get assignments in on time.
A typical day as a master’s student
What does a typical day as an Online Masters’ student look like for you?
Since 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 for. 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.
June advises to create files on your computer to keep the modules, assignments, and research organised
All right, so this was a sneak peek of a typical day in 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!
Failure is a part of life, and there is no way around it – everybody will fail. As long as you learn from your failures, failures can be good. Unfortunately, not everyone can get over failures.
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In my youth, I would have fallen under the category of not dealing with failures well. In high school, I remember being terrified about exams and assignments. I remember breaking out into a cold sweat before exams, and if I failed, the anxiety and shame of “what would happen next” would almost cripple me. I did not deal with it well. I just stopped caring about exams, results or assignments. As a result, I did not perform well for a while and fulfilled what I had feared would happen.
With age and hindsight comes wisdom (I hope). For me, wisdom came from one of my professors. He was counselling a classmate who was handling failure poorly. He asked this student first not to panic and think – what is the worst thing that could happen to me of this failure? This question profoundly affected me, and to this day, every time something goes wrong, I ask myself – what is the worst thing that could happen? At least until now, the answer has been “nothing I can’t handle”.
How you deal with failure is important, and the following are six simple tips that have worked for me.
1. Calm down and think. Now, you might think that is easier said than done – I JUST FAILED IN MY EXAM?ASSIGNMENT! This is where my old professor’s advice works for me. So, ask yourself – what is the worst that could happen, and can I deal with it? More often than not, the answer will be YES. Things are now always as bad as you imagined.
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2. Analyse the failure. Why did you fail? What did you do wrong? What did you do right? What can you do to change? What can you keep on and improve on?
3. Understand the process. Figure out what happens next. This is usually easily accessible information available to students and can be found in the student handbook or the college website. Ask your professors or student support team if you need help or more information. Find out the deadlines if you need to resit, reapply or resubmit.
4. Speak with your professor. Don’t be scared of your professors. They are teachers and are there to help. If it is an assignment, ask them where you lost marks and how you could improve to meet expectations. If you lost grades because you did not understand something or misunderstood the subject, ask for guidance and clarification.
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5. Prioritised study. I have written many times about the importance of scheduling. And after a failure, you have the opportunity to finetune your schedule to focus on your weaknesses. Schedule more time to improve the areas you are weak, or you could go the other way and focus on strengthening your strengths. Prioritise and schedule when, how and what you are focused on learning.
6. Support. People find strength in many places and people. It is not only important for your support system to rejoice with you in your success. My support system (your parents, spouse, children, friends, teachers, peers, etc.) provides me strength when I fail in the form of advice, help, or just being a shoulder to cry on. When they help me overcome my failure, they share in my success, which makes them happy and improves relationships. I know this is how I feel when the roles are reversed.
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I hope these simple tips help you overcome any academic failure you might face.
If you are looking to join a 100% online master’s degree programme, then consider joining our globally recognised master’s degree programmes. Look at our list of programmes and see if we have anything you are interested in doing.
You can also chat LIVE on WhatsApp with one of our Education Advisors for more information on the programme right for you, the application process, and details on discounts we might offer.
In today’s competitive job market, attracting and retaining top talent has become more challenging. Companies increasingly realise the importance of developing a strong Employee Value Proposition (EVP) to differentiate themselves and create an engaging and fulfilling work environment. In this blog post, we will delve into the concept of the Employee Value Proposition, explore its significance, and discuss how it can contribute to organisational success.
Defining Employee Value Proposition
The Employee Value Proposition (EVP) is the unique set of offerings and benefits an organisation provides its employees in exchange for their skills, capabilities, and commitment. It represents the value employees receive beyond their salaries, such as career development opportunities, work-life balance, company culture, rewards and recognition, and the overall employee experience.
In a highly competitive job market, a compelling EVP can be a powerful tool for attracting and recruiting high-quality candidates. Photo credit: Canva.com
Importance of EVP
A strong Employee Value Proposition (EVP) can have several positive effects for both employees and the organisation as a whole
Attracting Top Talent: In a highly competitive job market, a compelling EVP can be a powerful tool for attracting and recruiting high-quality candidates. It communicates to potential employees why they should choose your organisation over others, emphasising its unique advantages and opportunities.
Increase Employee Engagement: An effective EVP can significantly enhance employee engagement. Engaged employees are more productive, innovative, and dedicated to achieving the organisation’s goals. When employees feel their needs and aspirations are met, they are more likely to be committed, motivated, and enthusiastic about their work.
Improve Retention Rates: A robust EVP can increase employee retention rates. A positive EVP can create a sense of loyalty and commitment among employees, reducing turnover and the costs associated with recruitment and onboarding. Employees who feel valued and fulfilled in their roles are less likely to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Enhance Employer Brand: A strong EVP builds a positive employer brand. It establishes a reputation as an organisation that values its employees, invests in their development, and provides a supportive and fulfilling work environment. A positive employer brand attracts top talent, enhances the organisation’s image, and can lead to increased customer loyalty and positive brand perception.
Boost Productivity and Performance: Employees who feel valued and supported are likelier to go the extra mile and perform at their best. A strong EVP creates a sense of purpose and satisfaction in their work, leading to increased productivity and higher-quality output. Engaged and motivated employees are also more likely to seek opportunities for growth and improvement, driving overall performance levels within the organisation.
Support Organisational Goals: An EVP aligned with the organisation’s mission, values, and strategic objectives can drive employee behaviours that support those goals. When employees feel a strong connection between their work and the organisation’s purpose, they are more likely to work towards achieving its vision and contributing to its success.
Foster Innovation and Creativity: A positive EVP encourages an environment that fosters innovation and creativity. Employees who feel supported and empowered are likelier to contribute new ideas, take calculated risks, and challenge the status quo. A strong EVP creates a culture that values and rewards innovation, leading to increased competitiveness and adaptability in the marketplace.
Enhance Employee Well-being and Satisfaction: A robust EVP addresses the holistic well-being of employees, including their physical, mental, and emotional health. Organisations can enhance employee satisfaction and overall well-being by offering benefits, resources, and support programs that promote work-life balance, employee wellness, and a positive work environment.
Competitive Advantage: A well-crafted EVP can give your organisation a competitive edge by differentiating it from competitors. It helps create a distinct employer brand and establishes your organisation as an employer of choice.
A strong EVP creates a sense of purpose and satisfaction in their work, leading to increased productivity and higher-quality output. Photo credit: Canva.com
Components of a Strong EVP
To enhance the Employee Value Proposition (EVP) and provide a compelling offering to employees, organisations can consider implementing the following elements:
Competitive Compensation: Offer fair and competitive salaries that align with industry standards and reflect the value employees bring to the organisation. Additionally, consider performance-based bonuses, profit-sharing, or stock options to incentivise and reward outstanding contributions.
Comprehensive Benefits: Provide a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks like wellness programs, gym memberships, or flexible spending accounts. Tailor the benefits to meet the diverse needs of your employees.
Career Development Opportunities: Invest in employee growth and development by offering training programs, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement paths. Provide resources for continuous learning, certifications, and skill-building to empower employees to reach their full potential.
Work-Life Balance: Promote work-life balance by offering flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options, flexible schedules, or compressed workweeks. Encourage employees to take vacation time and provide policies that support parental leave, caregiving support, and personal time off.
Positive Company Culture: Foster a positive and inclusive company culture that values diversity, collaboration, and respect. Create opportunities for social engagement, team-building activities, and employee resource groups. Encourage open communication and transparency throughout the organisation.
Recognition and Rewards: Implement a robust recognition program that acknowledges and rewards outstanding employee performance and achievements. Celebrate milestones and successes publicly to boost morale and motivation. Provide regular feedback and constructive evaluations to help employees grow and improve.
Meaningful Work: Ensure employees find their work meaningful and aligned with their passions and skills. Offer autonomy and empower employees to take ownership of their work. Provide opportunities for employees to work on challenging projects, contribute to the company’s mission, and make a real impact.
Supportive Leadership: Develop strong leadership that is accessible, supportive, and encourages employee growth and development. Create opportunities for regular check-ins, mentorship, and feedback sessions to foster a positive relationship between managers and employees.
Work Environment and Facilities: Provide a comfortable and well-equipped work environment that supports productivity and well-being. Consider providing amenities like on-site cafeterias, fitness centers, or relaxation areas. Offer modern office spaces, ergonomic furniture, and state-of-the-art technology.
Employee Engagement Programs: Develop employee engagement initiatives, such as employee recognition programs, team-building events, volunteering opportunities, or employee resource groups. Encourage cross-functional collaboration and create a sense of community within the organisation.
Provide regular feedback and constructive evaluations to help employees grow and improve. Photo credit: Canva.com
Building an Effective EVP
Understand Your Target Audience: Conduct research to understand your target talent pool’s needs, expectations, and aspirations. Tailor your EVP to address their specific desires and motivations.
Assess and Align Internal Practices: Evaluate your current practices, policies, and company culture to identify improvement areas. Ensure your EVP aligns with your organisation’s mission, values, and strategic goals.
Communicate Consistently: Develop clear and compelling messaging to communicate your EVP to current and potential employees. Leverage multiple channels, such as your company website, social media, and recruitment campaigns, to consistently promote and reinforce your EVP.
Measure and Evolve: Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of your EVP through surveys, feedback mechanisms, and employee retention metrics. Adapt and refine your EVP based on the feedback to ensure its continued relevance and impact.
An effective Employee Value Proposition (EVP) is a powerful tool to help organisations create a compelling employer brand. Photo credit: Unsplash.com
In today’s talent-driven landscape, organisations must go beyond offering competitive salaries to attract and retain top talent. An effective Employee Value Proposition (EVP) is a powerful tool to help organisations create a compelling employer brand and enhance employee satisfaction and engagement. It is essential to tailor the EVP to meet your employees’ specific needs and aspirations. Regularly seek feedback, conduct surveys, and engage in open dialogue to understand what matters most to them and continuously refine your offerings. By providing a compelling EVP, organisations can attract and retain top talent, enhance employee satisfaction, and drive overall success.
This series has fast become one of our most appreciated blog posts. This “Day in the Life of” series focuses on the challenges and rewards our students derive from doing an online master’s degree with us, and we have been blessed with students who were more than happy to volunteer their time and share their experiences.
There is no better way to learn than from those who came before and see what worked for them. It will help you become a better student and help you make an informed decision.
An Introduction
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Who are you?
I am Kevin Young, a Robert Kennedy College (RKC) and York St John University (YSJ) MBA student.
Which programme did you choose and why?
MBA Management Consulting because after several years consulting in South East Asia & Australia, I decided to gain an MBA and set up my own consultancy business, which I am now in the process of doing.
The Study Plan
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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 dedicated hours each week and knew the only way to get through this was to stick to a plan. A good timetable and study plan do help. Also, I would spend my lunch break doing some studying or reading relevant to the module.
What part of the day did/do you find most suitable to study? (e.g. early mornings, lunch break, evenings, weekends?)
Sundays were my best study day. After early morning coffee, I would spend the whole day working on my modules.
How much time did you devote to each assignment?
I started the assignments as I did my lessons, so they were in parallel – just to ensure I could keep up.
Travelling and Communication
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How did travelling impact your ability to study?
I would also do a bit of studying on a plane. A flight from Singapore to Brisbane is 8 hours – that’s a full-day study!
How were you able to interact with peers and/or professors given the time differences?
Online makes it easy because there is no time zone relevant to working on the modules. For the dissertation, my supervisor was in the UK, and I was in Australia, so it was 9:00 am for him and 6 or 7 pm for me to connect – no issue, and it worked really well.
A typical day as a master’s student
What does a typical day as an Online master’s student look like for you?
Luckily, I could sometime sneak a bit of studying into my working day, especially at lunchtime. At the end of the workday, I would go home and spend four or more hours in the evening. I would often have Saturday free with the family and then get stuck on Sundays. Saturday was a fallback day if I was getting behind.
Any advice you have for students to better plan their studies.
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Have a study plan and stick to it – almost project manage your time! Don’t try to do two modules together; just concentrate on each one at a time. Use the class chats to query things or get advice. Above all – enjoy the learning! I was lucky in that I was passionate about the subjects in the module.
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.
In the last blog, we learnt about the culture of busyness. Busyness refers to the pressure society places on individuals to constantly be active and productive, frequently at the price of their relationships and personal well-being. Because of the various adverse effects of busyness, organisations are looking for ways to combat the scourge.
According to psychologists’ findings, people tend to value something more when they work harder to achieve it. This tendency is popularly known as ‘effort justification’, and people feel more committed to a task when more effort is involved, even when the task is meaningless. While the employees go into an ‘automatic mode’, managers tend to make decisions based on institutional knowledge and culture, which are just bad habits.
It’s easy to become overwhelmed with the constant stream of responsibilities and tasks that we have to manage
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with the constant stream of responsibilities and tasks we must manage. With the rise of technology and the increasing demands of work and personal life, it can feel like we are always busy and never have enough time to get everything done. However, there are ways to overcome this feeling of busyness and regain control of our lives.
Here are some tips to help you manage your time more effectively and achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life:
Prioritise your tasks and eliminate low-value work
One of the most effective ways to overcome busyness is prioritising tasks. Many organisations dump shallow work on the employees, such as reporting, unnecessary meetings, data work etc. This does not allow them to do deep work reducing productivity. Organisations should focus on employee-engaging activities rather than just keeping them on the clock. Make lists of everything you need to do and rank them in order of importance. This will help you focus on the most critical tasks and ensure you are not wasting time on less important activities.
A lot of organisations dump shallow work on the employees, such as unnecessary meetings
Learn to say no and delegate tasks
Often, busyness is a result of taking on too many commitments. Learn to say no to requests that are not essential or do not align with your priorities. This will help you free up time to focus on the tasks that are most important to you. If you have too many tasks to manage, consider delegating some of them to others. This can help you free up time and focus on the tasks that are most important to you. Delegating can also help you develop your team members’ skills and build trust in your relationships.
If you have too many tasks to manage, consider delegating some of them to others.
Set the right behaviour and take breaks
Companies can overcome busyness by setting the correct examples. Leaders should neither themselves nor let the employees burn the midnight oil. Taking regular breaks throughout the day can help you recharge and refocus.
Schedule short breaks throughout your day to stretch, take a walk, or simply relax
Schedule short breaks throughout your day to stretch, walk, or relax. This can help reduce stress and increase productivity.
Set boundaries by rewarding output, not just activity.
It is essential to set boundaries to manage your time effectively. This means saying no to distractions and interruptions that can derail your work.
Communicate your boundaries clearly
Communicate your boundaries clearly to others and set expectations about when and how you will be available. Employees are at risk of overwork and burnout by not setting boundaries and encouraging performance-based pay. Instead, output quality should be the measure for assessing compensation and rewards.
Practice self-care
Finally, taking care of yourself is critical to overcoming busyness. This means getting enough rest, eating well, and engaging in activities that help you relax and recharge. Prioritising self-care amongst employees can help you reduce stress, improve your focus, and increase your overall well-being. Organisations should follow a generous vacation allowance. Research shows that employees who are offered unlimited vacation end up taking less time off. And most of employees work during their vacation. Such incentives should not only be responsibility of the government but on the companies.
Taking care of yourself is critical to overcoming busyness
In conclusion, busyness is a common issue that many of us face in today’s fast-paced world. However, by prioritising your tasks, learning to say no, taking breaks, using technology to your advantage, delegating tasks, setting boundaries, and practising self-care, you can overcome this feeling and achieve a more balanced and fulfilling life.
What are your views? Let us know in the comments below.
We are constantly inundated with messages about staying active and productive in today’s environment. We are advised to work on something continually and that how much we can do in a day will determine our success. However, this attitude is not only incorrect but also unsustainable. In actuality, busyness is not a measure of success.
What does an activity mean?
We must first clarify what activity means to see why this is the case. Attending meetings, returning emails, working on projects, and performing chores are just a few examples of what is referred to as activity. Although they could be crucial, these factors are not always a sign of success.
Activity and Success
Success, in its simplest form, is about achieving a desired outcome. It’s about setting goals and working towards them in an effective and efficient way. We lose sight of the bigger picture when we focus solely on activity. We become so consumed with being busy that we forget why we’re doing what we’re doing in the first place.
To indeed be successful, we need to be intentional about our actions.
The issue with using activity as a success indicator is that it encourages us to place a higher value on quantity than quality. Instead of focusing on how well we perform the tasks on our to-do list, we judge our worth by how many we can cross off. Concentrating on the activity might cause burnout because we become so preoccupied with getting things done that we neglect our needs and well-being.
To indeed be successful, we need to be intentional about our actions. We need to set clear goals and have a plan for achieving them. We must prioritise our time and energy on the things that matter most rather than getting bogged down in busy work. And most importantly, we need to remember that success is not a one-size-fits-all metric. What works for one person may not work for another, and that’s okay.
We need to remember that success is not a one-size-fits-all metric
The culture of busyness
The culture of busyness refers to the pressure society places on individuals to constantly be active and productive, frequently at the price of their relationships and personal well-being. It is characterised by the idea that being busy is an accomplishment and that those who aren’t always working or succeeding are somehow less than or unmotivated.
Several factors contribute to the culture of busyness. One is the rise of technology and the expectation of constant availability. With smartphones and other devices, people are now expected to be reachable and responsive 24/7, making it difficult to disconnect and take time for oneself.
The proliferation of social media and the temptation to exhibit a perfect online persona are further factors. Many people believe that to keep up with their friends and project an impressive image of themselves, and they must continually document their activities and accomplishments.
Consequences of busyness
The culture of busyness can have several negative consequences. For one, it can lead to burnout and chronic stress, which can have severe physical and mental health implications. It can also make forming meaningful relationships or engaging in hobbies or leisure activities challenging. People may feel guilty for taking time away from work or other obligations.
The culture of busyness can lead to a sense of superficiality and dissatisfaction
Furthermore, the culture of busyness can lead to a sense of superficiality and dissatisfaction. When people constantly rush from one task to another, they may not have the time or energy to engage in deeper thinking or reflection or pursue activities that truly bring them joy and fulfilment. As people may feel guilty for taking time away from work or other duties, it can also be challenging to establish lasting relationships or participate in hobbies or other leisure activities.
Overall, the culture of busyness is a complex phenomenon deeply ingrained in our society. While there is value in hard work and productivity, it is essential to remember that personal well-being and relationships are equally important. We can cultivate a more balanced and fulfilling life by prioritising rest, leisure, and connection.
Results as a measure of success
Furthermore, activity does not necessarily equate to progress. We can be busy all day long, but if we’re not making any headway towards our goals, then what’s the point? It’s important to remember that success is not just about doing “things” but the “right things”.
So how else can we gauge success besides activity? The solution is in the results. Instead of counting the number of things we complete, we should focus on the outcomes we achieve. Success ought to be judged by the difference we’re making, either in our lives or the world.
In conclusion, activity is not a metric for success. While being productive and efficient with our time is essential, we should not measure our worth solely by how much we can get done in a day. Success should be about achieving outcomes and making an impact, not just doing things for the sake of being busy. We can live more fulfilling and successful lives by focusing on what truly matters.
Our students come from different walks of life. Robert Kennedy College (RKC) takes pride in being a truly international college, with over 7000 students from 140 countries. Our 100% online programmes have been designed for busy managers. Our students and alums work for many international organisations and top companies from all over the world.
Allow me to introduce one of the RKC’s proud students, Dr. Wambaka Kosea, sharing few insights and some words of wisdom from his own experience.
There is no better way to learn than from those who came before and see what learning strategies worked for them. It will help you become a better student and, hopefully, help you make an informed decision.
Dr. Wambaka Kosea
We asked Dr. Kosea few questions and we got some truly inspiring answers
Brief introduction about yourself, background, education and work experience
My Name is Wambaka Kosea, aged 46 years, born to Kosea Makwasi and Rovanance Nandudu in the District of Sironko in Uganda.
I studied at Bugwagi Primary School from Primary One to Primary Five and then went to Buyobo Primary School for Primary Six and Seven. I then joined Masaba Secondary School for Ordinary and Advance level, from where I passed and was admitted to Makerere University to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Education (Economics and Geography). In 2002, I applied and was admitted at the School of Economics of Makerere University to pursue a Master’s Degree in Economic Policy and Planning. In 2008 I enrolled for a PhD in Economics at Makerere University and then enrolled for other academic qualifications and professional skills training. I now hold a PhD in Management as well (Project Management) from the University of Central Nicaragua, a Master’s Degree in International Commercial Law From the University of Salford in conjunction with Robert Kennedy College Zurich, a Master’s in Business Administration from East and Southern African Management Institute, Arush Tanzania and a candidate for a Masters in International Events Management at the University of Salford In conjunction with Robert Kennedy College Zurich.
I have also attained the following professional development and or academic certificates.
Professional Development Certificate in Negotiation (Dealing with Difficult People and Problems) from Harvard Law School, Harvard University USA.
Professional Development Certificate in Intensive Leadership Excellence from the University of California (Berkeley Extension), Californian, USA.
Certificate in International Labour Migration: Economics, Politics and Ethics, from the University of OxfordUK
Professional Development Certificate/Banking Game/Financial Boot Camp, finance and banking in Europe from Frankfurt School of Financial Management, Frankfurt, Germany
Professional Development Certificate in International Taxation on Oil and Gas and Other Mining Activities from IBFD (International Tax Academy) Singapore.
Professional Development Certificate in International Tax Aspects of Corporate Tax planning from IBFD Moscow, Russia.
Professional Development Certificate in Energy and Mining Law from Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
Professional Development Certificate in International Organisations Management from the University of Geneva Switzerland.
Certificate in Climate Change: The Science from the University of British Columbia, Canada.
Certificate in Global Diplomacy: The United Nations from the University of London and SOAS University of London, UK
Professional Development Certificate in Analytical System Thinking from Enterprise University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
Post Graduate Certificate in Project Planning and Management from Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
Post Graduate Certificate in Monitoring and Evaluation from Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
Certificate in Human Resource Management; from the Institute of Adult and Continuing Education, Makerere University
Certificate in Strategic Procurement and logistics management; from the Institute of Adult and Continuing Education, Makerere University
Professional Development Certificate in Strategic Management from East and Southern African Management Institute, Arusha, Tanzania. A high-profile management course that involved strategic thinking and long-term planning training for Big National and International Organizations, including comprehensive and coherent means of sustainable impact monitoring and evaluation.
Professional Development Certificate in Wetland and Poverty Reduction Project, from Wetlands International, with four major thematic modules, namely;-Wetlands and Water Resource Management, Wetland Valuation, Policy Setting and Advocacy, and Financial Mechanisms
Professional Development Certificate in Trade and Trade Policy from Uganda Programme on Trade Opportunities and Policy with the European Union. A course that involved training in Regional integration and agreements in Africa (opportunities and challenges facing COMESA), the Hong Kong Ministerial conference and beyond, Aid for Trade, the Doha Work Program (lessons, challenges and the way forward), Mult-lateral trade systems (focusing on ACP-EU) trade relations, National Trade Policy for Uganda and dispute settlement in international.
It should be noted that apart from the Bachelor’s Degree in Education, which the Government sponsored me, the costs of all other remaining courses have been met myself.
Dr. Wambaka Kosea being accompanied by Wife, Doctors and Professors of Makerere University towards the celebration of his academic achievements at Sheraton Kampala Hotel on the 10th of February 2023.Dr. Wambaka Kosea giving a speech at the celebration of his academic achievements at Sheraton Kampala Hotel on the 10th of February 2023.Dr. Wambaka Kosea with the Rector of University of Central Nicaragua during the graduation of a PhD in Management.
Employment
I taught Economics for two years at St Lawrence Citizens High School from 2000 to 2002. I worked as a part-time consultant for the Uganda Programme on Trade Opportunities and Policy (UPTOP), funded by the Government of Uganda and the European Union as mainly an evaluator of trade research proposals for funding.
Currently I am the Group chairman of Strategic Group of companies (Strategic Friends International, incorporated in Uganda, Washington DC and Hong Kong, Strategic African Bidder Limited, Strategic Sustainable Development Fund Limited, Strategic Luxuries Transport Company Limited, Big Push Construction Limited, Events De Strategic Limited, Soft Services Development Forex Bureau Limited and HEM Cash Limited).
Dr. Wambaka Kosea at his work station at Strategic Friends International at Nakawa House, Nakawa Business Centre Kampala.
When did you decide to enrol for a Master’s with RKC?
I enrolled for a Master’s with RKC in 2018
What factors led you to pursue a Master’s degree at RKC?
The kind of work I am involved in cuts across borders and therefore requires that I understand issues to do with international commercial law. For international recognition and competitive purposes, I must attain it from a world reputable University or College at affordable costs and friendly payment terms. I also knew the skills and or qualifications needed to achieve my life goals and wanted an institution that could offer those skills.RKC and the University of Salford offers the needed courses and have merited in credibility and international recognition and also offers the courses within my financial confines and work schedule.
How much did you devote to studying online and submitting assignments?
The modules had specific timelines for study and assignment submissions. I spared time outside my work schedule to adhere to program timelines.
Did you attend the on-campus residency program? What are your views about the residency?
Yes, I attended the on-campus residence program at Robert Kennedy in Zurich from Monday, June 17th to Friday, June 21st 2019. The residency program created an opportunity for the student to physically interact and learn from each other and also interact with the professors. It created room for the exchange of ideas and physical learning from the instructors with immediate responses since questions were put to professors and responses provided there and then. The group case studies built confidence among students to make presentations to other students from different backgrounds, and that was carried beyond residency. Interaction after class was not limited to only academics but also in other areas, such as culture and business opportunities in different countries of participants. It also created an opportunity for students to tour Switzerland and learn many things. Students created friendships that existed beyond Zurich. Residency as it sounds should be physical.
How long did it take you to complete the program?
It took me a record time of one year.
In your opinion, how has the Master’s degree from RKC benefited you personally and professionally?
The master’s from RKC has benefited me personally and professionally, as delineated hereunder:
I now understand the current world legal regimes (Laws, Policy and Regulations) and their applicability to my work. I am therefore positioned to execute international trade activities and consultancies from a technically informed point of view with either none or minimal mistakes. I am among the few resource person to offer technical guidance and consultancies in areas of international arbitrations in Africa. The master’s program also groomed me and ushered me into conducting research privately and make applicable deductions and recommendation that can be used to better policies and programs. It should be noted that all assignments involved writing reports on certain problems or issues within the jurisdiction of the course which required one to conduct research. My confidence in the masters’ programs of the college can be certified by my enrollment for the second master’s in International Events Management.
Dr. Wambaka Kosea giving a keynote speech at the launch of the National Career Guidance Day at Kololo Independent ground on the 20th of March 2023 and sponsored by among others Strategic Friends International.
How was your experience with fellow students, professors and quality of education received?
Much as the course was done with limited physical interaction with other students and professors apart from the mandatory residency where we had a chance to physically interact, it was, however, organized in such a way that some assignments were done in groups that enabled us to learn from the experience and strength of other students from other parts of the world. The group discussions worked a great deal and eased understanding with the guidance of professors. The physical interaction at the mandatory residence at Robert Kennedy College in Zurich sealed the program learning process.
The quality of education grooms the student to independently identify problems and provide solutions from a technically informed point of view. The method of assessment is compressive, transparent and aims at cultivating the level of understanding of the student in a particular subject matter. The fee payment structure is democratic in that it gives room for students to decide on a schedule that is convenient for them. Communication and feedback during the study process are timely, and the online library is available and well-equipped. Personally, my experience did not only stop at academics but also created sustainable friendships that have actually opened business opportunities with companies that employ some of the students I studied with.
Inspiration Statement
Unless economics has changed but what I know is that education is an investment, and just like any other investment, it is associated with a number of risks and the bigger the investment in education, the bigger the risk and the bigger the risk, the bigger the profit. The level-one positions themselves will determine their readiness to handle challenges and reap the opportunities offered by the world. Anyone can do business and succeed, but sustainable businesses that exist beyond one’s lifetime are uncured to professionalism and training.
Education has its own time and must be attained within a specific timeline if one is to use the skills attained to make contributions, and global contribution requires that one understands global problems meaning that the kind and magnitude of contribution will depend on the level of exposure to global problems within the right timelines.
I am driven by the fact that those who have made significant contributions on earth are human, and therefore a statement like “if they did it, I could also do it, and my personality is my unique gift” properly describes me.
A truly inspirational and motivating life story Dr. Wambaka Kosea, driving success in his career. I am sure you feel inspired enough to take that plunge of investing in education, investing in your future, investing in yourself!
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.
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 MBA students, a pilot by profession and the one who addresses himself as a ‘transformation agent’. Let’s hear his experience studying for Master’s of Business Administration:
An Introduction
Which Uni are you studying with?
York St John University (UK)
I chose the MBA in Leading innovation and change offered in exclusive partnership with York St John University
Which programme did you choose and why?
I chose the MBA in Leading innovation and change : change is constant and without innovation, one can be knocked out or overran by change!
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?
To be honest, it was like an adhoc system in the beginning..
Moreover, change of company, country and crazy flight schedules including night flights meant I had to search for what would work for me.
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?)
Given the unique work requirements, studying early mornings or late nights had been virtually impossible owing to early flights or night flights.
Then I discovered I could do study while in cruise!
Long flights with extended periods in cruise became an interesting option…
How much time did you devote for each assignment?
I usually could not set for myself a fixed time..often it was the fatigue levels from day and night flights that determined how productive I could be. It was chaos because I had flight exams at the new company that also had really demanding pass rates…(80%). Only the last of the four modules worked better after the work related chaos subsided.
Dr. Radu had a chat with me after failing the first module marginally. I had thought that balancing this chaos was stretching my capacities beyond the minimum required to pass. I had intended to put a stop to studies till a better time emerged. But, I am glad that I had the talk with Dr. Radu Negoescu…I kept going and never looked back.
Travelling and Communication
How did travelling impact your ability to study?
Travel brought more chaos into the works. I worked hard to bring order to it.
How were you able to interact with peers and/or professors given the time differences?
I communicated through WhatsApp! Fantastic…it can be lonely but when a group is available, fellow students share their challenges and give each other support.
A typical day as a master’s student
What does a typical day as an Online Masters’ student look like for you?
For a pilot, no day is typical. Cruising to different destinations means having to alternate study times when freshness is at its peak for maximum concentration. However during difficult times, I had to take a minimum an hour daily to either read or do a write up.
For the dissertation though, 100 words for 100 days was the least allowable minimums…instead of waiting until last days owing to the scope and research involved.
Any advice?
There is no fixed working system. Everything is relative to one thing: one’s level of discipline!
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.
One of the most challenging decisions before venturing into a Master’s programme is – when to start. Most of us are so engrossed in our daily lives, trying to make a living, juggling family and work that the thought of starting a Master’s is often put on a back burner.
However, I feel when you fear the unknown, start small and take baby steps before taking the plunge.
This is precisely what York St John University is offering now in partnership with Robert Kennedy College.
Dr. iur. David Costa, Dean of Robert Kennedy College, explains the Online MBA Entry Module.
All you need to know about the Online MBA Entry Module
Why enrol in the entry module?
The online open access entry module is easy to get started with. It is a gateway to enrol for York St John University online MBA.
What is the duration of open access module?
You can complete the access module in as little as 3 months. The full MBA can be completed in 12 months.
What do you receive at end of the programme?
At the end of the programme, you will receive the University transcript from York St John University. You also will have the opportunity to continue to pursue Full Online MBA.
What is the fees for the programme?
1000 Swiss Francs (approx. US$ 1079) payable in 3 monthly installments of 333 CHF. You can register and start with just 333 Swiss Francs. If you decide to progress with the full York MBA the 1000 Swiss Francs Entry Module fee will be deducted from the full MBA fee.
What are the steps to enrol and study the open access module?
Here are few simple steps to get enrolled and started:
Register for Entry Module: Just one click and you can get started. Start your MBA with just 333 Swiss Francs
Access to Online Campus: Once you pay the registration fee, you will receive access to OnlineCampus and University Library
Study 100% online: The programme offers flexibility to view the recorded lectures anytime, anywhere.
Submit assessments: Prepare for the assessments. Our Professors will assist you in preparing for your final assessment.
And Finally… Start your MBA: After successful completion of the entry module, you can choose to continue with the MBA programme.
Still have more questions? Talk to one of our advisors live on WhatsApp to know more.
