Balancing Part-Time Study
With A Full-Time Job
Studying for a qualification is one of the most effective ways to secure a promotion. Even better, you may be able to apply for more well-paid jobs at different companies. However, the majority of people don’t have the fund to quit and study full-time, so it’s essential to find the perfect balance. Of course, it doesn’t come easy as you may not have been in a classroom environment for years. Plus, there are only 24 hours in a day and a person has to sleep.
Thankfully, there are ways to ensure you study effectively and don’t burn out. You can find them below.
Pick the Best Mode
There are plenty of ways to learn, from being in the classroom to taking exams online. The one you choose should suit your career needs as well as your learning ones. For example, if you struggle to get out of the office, you may want to opt for distance learning as there’s no reason to attend seminars in person. Or, those with vacation days can try the consolidated version where you do a full year’s studying in one week. Research the options on the table and then pick the mode which tailors to your lifestyle. Always speak to your boss to see if there are any restrictions.
Cut Down the Course Length
If the course is short, there’s no need to study for as long. Therefore, a condensed degree, such as a one-year master’s course, maybe a wise move. If that isn’t possible, look into transferring credits so that you don’t have to relearn old subject matter. This online RN to BSN allows registered nurses to swap over a total of 90 credits to become a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. One of the reasons is that the two interlink which is why you may need to choose a sister course.
Wake Up Early
With studying, there is a lot to fit into one day and it can be daunting. Sure, it’s easy to dismiss things such as going to the gym or meeting friends yet it makes the process tricky. You feel as if you’re cooped up for a long time and start to get stressed but there isn’t a release. Waking up early can be the reliever. Exercising in the morning or meeting for coffee will free up time in the evening to study. Alternatively, you can do it the other way around. And, there is always the weekends.
Sneak It In
Everyone has periods when they aren’t doing anything and you should use them to study. Don’t let it get in the way of your life; instead, sneak it in. For example, do you get the subway or the bus to work? If so, pick up a book on your commute and start reading, making notes along the way. You can do the same during a lunch break. Although it sounds as if the studying will take over your life, what you are doing is creating opportunities to relax later on.
Plus, it acts as a mechanism to drill in the information and keep it fresh in your mind.