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Hello my fellow readers,

After my first year as a distance learner, I have realised the importance of preparation (before the goal or outcome) and reality (what is happening right now).

Preparation requires the ability to understand the reasons for your actions and how to go about achieving them. It is easier said than done, but it can also be easily done with a positive mindset from the get-go and taking small steps until the goal has been achieved.

Tips for preparation

1. Explore the University’s website and save important webpages by clicking on the star icon to check and review for later.

2. Start to think about your priorities before you start your studies. Start to build habits to set a routine (refer to James Clear’s book called Atomic Habits which is a great read.) Visualise or make a mind map; create a daily checklist but remember, instead of being overwhelmed if not all tasks are ticked off, just continue the next day.

3. It is also a good idea to attend workshops by the . You can find which session suits your needs and these can help towards your professional development.

4. Save relevant deadlines and dates. Setting reminders and using apps that can help facilitate reminders and pop-up notifications are a great way to stay on top of deadlines. Some people may prefer to have a student academic diary, which is a good way of being organised as it helps to keep track of all your activities in one place. 

5. Always communicate. There is no issue with overcommunication. Ask for help or clarity if you need it. Save important email addresses such as support/advice email addresses from the University and use the ‘Ask a question’ icon in your for any enquires you may have.

6. Another important point about preparation is that you may not have all the information you need at the beginning. As the year progresses, you will continue to build more information through researching and networking with other students in your cohort. 

Reflective questions to support your preparation

1. Which modules are you interested in, or planning on taking? Having all this information at our fingertips can be quite exciting. Information about past modules is available. By doing some research before the course begins, you can give yourself a head start.

2. How are you thinking of balancing your studies with your work and social life? I assume we all have busy lives, and this means we can sometimes struggle to find a balance with a stressful day at work, having time to meet up with others or even self-care, on top of meeting deadlines for your coursework.

3. How can you incorporate self-care into your academic life? Self-care is anything that helps you take care of your mental and physical wellbeing, for example, having a break; participating in hobbies; meditation; stretching; walking; exercising; hydration; connecting with friends; joining a social group as well as building your social network and community.

There is a saying that ‘procrastination is the assassination of destinations’. Preparation should help to minimise procrastination. So, remember, whatever suits your ways of achieving your goal is the right way. There are no right or wrong answers here.

I hope this helps you as you start your study journey. Remember to enjoy it!

Adeola studies MSc Public Health in the UK.