Being a student is hard.
Being an international student is harder.
International students report some of the highest stress levels compared to many other demographics. It is easy to see why when you consider the many factors that make up an international student’s life. The pressures of study and work alone can have detrimental effects on your state of mind, so it is always important to be aware of your study/life balance. Here are a few tips to reduce stressors on your life, and help find your perfect balance between studying and relaxation.
Plan and Prioritise
It is worth sitting down at the beginning of every week and setting out the important tasks that you need to complete. Things such as the completion of assignments and studying for exams will be an obvious priority, but don’t forget to add things that you would like to do to unwind once you complete those important tasks. Finding the right balance between completing the tasks that you have to do and completing tasks that you want to do is an important distinction.
Maximise your Time, Minimise your Distractions
Think about all of the distractions that stop you from being productive. Distractions can come in many different sizes and shapes, so how can you better manage them? Having a group study session is a great idea to review your course work with friends and peers, however, sitting in the library discussing what you did on the weekend isn’t likely to help with your studies. If you can learn to limit distractions while you complete your important tasks you will find that these tasks are completed quicker, giving you more time to enjoy other things.
Be Mindful
Sometimes listening to yourself can be the best way to achieve your study/life balance. If you are constantly stressing about an upcoming exam, chances are you will limit your productivity. It is important to take the time out and respond to stressors in your life, and counteract them so that your mind stays balanced. When you are studying for an exam that seems overwhelming, take short breaks to relax before you continue with your studies. When you are working on a major assignment, set small goals that you feel comfortable achieving, and when you do achieve them reward yourself for your good work.
These are just some examples of how you can achieve your study/life balance when studying here at Kent. If you feel that you need more assistance when dealing with the pressures of studying overseas, check out the Health, Wellbeing and Support services we offer our students.
