Having enthusiasm for learning and a proactive approach to studying can shape a brighter future, says Caelainn McGonigle, CASSI PR Officer and a trainee with Gilroy Gannon
A s we ring in the New Year, many of us welcome 2024 as a new chapter filled with fresh opportunities, promises and resolutions.
For us students, the New Year is an opportunity to redirect and reset our academic journey and habits with renewed enthusiasm for lectures and exams. Transitioning from the Christmas break back to our regular routine of lectures and study can seem intimidating or daunting, but with strategic planning, a positive mindset and a couple of other tips and tricks, we can kick off the New Year embracing the challenges ahead.
Take a moment to reflect on the positives and negatives, both academic and personal, of the past year. Recognise accomplishments, reflect on challenges, and pinpoint areas for improvement. This reflection sets the way for clear and concise goals and aspirations for the New Year, which will make way for renewed academic enthusiasm.
Goal setting
Setting realistic and achievable goals is vital. Whether they focus on important academic milestones, day-to-day time management or regular study habits, they must be direct and reachable. Setting an abundance of unrealistic resolutions can be overwhelming and distract from meaningful progress.
Mindset
A positive mindset with a can-do attitude may be the most powerful tool for ensuring the New Year embraces the changes we have identified as being necessary for our goals.
Recognise 2024 as a clean slate, whether this means a new attitude towards lectures or hardiness towards exams.
Turn the setbacks into opportunities to better yourself, learn from the experience and grow in a positive manner for the next obstacle.
Get organised
Organisation is a fundamental key to academic success. Reorganising and decluttering both physical and digital spaces is a great way to start the New Year.
Take the time to identify what your environment requires to allow focus and concentration to peak.
Scheduling a balanced, realistic academic plan, including lectures and study at this time of year, can reduce the overwhelming feeling of suborganisation closer to exam season. Try planning apps or physical calendars to find which works best for you.
Go to your lectures
Active participation in lectures over the coming months will reap benefits at exam time.
Instead of passively attending lectures at the end of a working day or on a Saturday morning, ask questions during the live lecture, make use of the forums and reach out to other students.
Exam preparation is a marathon, not a sprint. Utilise the students around you over the coming weeks for their top tips regarding exam season. Consistent and intentional preparation builds confidence and minimises stress as exams approach.
Balance
When easing back into routine after the break, prioritise balance between work, study and personal well-being. Regular exercise, sufficient sleep, healthy eating and fun activities to destress will be key in keeping you feeling rejuvenated for the coming months.
New Year, new you
Kick off the New Year with renewed enthusiasm for lectures and exams by implementing a combination of reflection, goal setting, a positive mindset, organisation, active engagement, and consistent exam preparation. These strategies can harvest academic confidence, growth, learning and success.