Written by Brooke Heather
As the new session commences, I’m sure you’re feeling lots of emotions and nerves, even if it’s your final year, it never stops being a daunting experience. There are many reasons you may have decided to study online. For me, it was to ensure financial stability and for flexibility in where I reside. Going into my third year of online study, I’ve gathered some tips on how I prepare, the essentials, and how I maintain my motivation.
Preparing to study online
Now this one has taken lots of time (four sessions) for me to find a flow that works for me. In my opinion, all the little actions you can take ahead of the official start of the semester help tremendously. Here are some pointers:
Subject outlines are your BEST FRIEND! We’re lucky to have extremely clear workload breakdowns in our subject outlines and they are the starting point for dissecting your schedule.
Research study techniques to increase focus. A technique I find to be effective is the Pomodoro Technique, a good reference of this technique in this picture:
‘Beating’ your time wasters…I am all for down-time but it needs restraint. The best way to action this in my experience, setting a screen time lock on the apps responsible for distracting you with a password only a friend/family member knows. Once you’re locked out you go back to something productive! Alternatively, there’s an app called ‘Flora’ that lets you grow trees the longer you don’t touch your phone.
Essentials
The set-up of your study station. I’ve only just learnt how much fun making my study set-up could be, and now I feel excited to get to put it to good use this semester. Build a study space a vibe that empowers you to smash that degree!
Shortlisting study spots. Many cafes have cozy study spaces to switch it up for you, explore cafes that have a nice vibe and feel motivating so that you have a selection. Additionally, finding parks, libraries or other productive spaces will expand your options.
Motivation
My advice – remember the pros of being an online student. Take the extra time to nourish yourself with a gourmet lunch and enjoy the ability to stroll outside as you please.
Try not to overwork yourself. Commit to what you can in your study and workload, find a balance that allows you to live comfortably while maintaining your wellbeing. The census date is there to help us and ensure that we can thrive!
Make sure to stay active and continue activities you enjoy, they are just as important as work and study (it’s all about balance).
Good luck to all my fellow online study buddies! Make 2026 your best online-year yet and enjoy the process of getting that well-deserved degree.
Charlie blog is a SSAF funded initiative.
