As the new school year rolls around, it is time to start thinking about ways you can make this year your best yet. It is certainly challenging to say goodbye to the endless freedom of summer and knuckle down into study mode once again. But, it is a necessary evil so you might as well make it count. If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t make the most of an academic year and wish you had done better, now is the time to fix that. Here are seven tips that will make this academic year your best one yet.
1. Get Ahead From the Start
On day one, you should be typing up and consolidating the notes you make in your classes and lectures. Naturally, the temptation to put them in your bag and instantly forget about them straight after class is strong. At the end of a long day at school, the last thing you want to do is more work. But, if you get ahead now, you will thank yourself come exam time.
2. Get Into a Good Sleep Pattern
Try and get at least eight hours of sleep each night. This is really important, as it will keep you feeling awake and alert during the day and improve your concentration. You should also try and become an early riser. Waking up at seven or eight in the morning will give you more time in the day to get things done and make you feel more productive.
3. Strengthen Your Social Circle
When school and exam stress hits hard and you’re on the verge of a breakdown, it is really important to have a good group of friends to fall back on. Give yourself time to spend quality time with your friends. Just one or two close friends will make all the difference in your time of need.
4. Network
Nowadays, the job market is all about who you know. If you want to finish your studies and walk into your dream job, you are going to need to know people. Networking can introduce you to people who can give you invaluable advice for interviews and CV writing. They can also give you an insight into the career you’ve chosen and maybe even help you obtain it.
5. Read Around Your Subjects
If you want to get top marks in your exams, it is not enough simply to regurgitate what you learn in class. You need to read around your subjects. Spend some time in the library or online looking at academic journals that will enhance your understanding of what you are learning.
6. Organise Your Time Meticulously
A lot of people create revision timetables when it comes to exam time. But, there is no reason why you can’t do this all year round. Plan your days and allocate yourself time to study, socialise, and exercise. It may take a while to get it all planned out, but once it’s done, all you have to do is stick to it.
7. Think About the Future
It is easy to put off job hunting or thinking about your future. But, the honest truth is that it is never too early to start. Use your free time to get work or volunteering experience on your CV or to send off job applications. Even just visiting your careers advisor is a step in the right direction.
