Managing Your Time While You Study Abroad
Written by: Aryan Pawar
Studies abroad program can be fun if managed with proper time management and planning. We share some useful tips with you. Getting a golden chance for study abroad is one of the best life experiences and opportunity a student can get. It is an overwhelming experience to see new places, meet new people and explore life in another foreign country. But studying abroad is not mere fun and games, it’s about studies overseas. While you travel don’t forget that you are in the foreign country for higher studies that cannot be taken for granted. Here comes the importance of time management and getting your energies channelized in right direction. Set your routine such that you learn as much as possible and get your work done too.
Study abroad is not vacation times, thus you have assignments and homework to complete, classes and grades to be met. Hence in time management give your studies the top priority. To start with it is advisable to maintain a journal while you travel. Usually during travel you may see some historical place, or some important place that relates to your college, here you can quickly note down any points or ideas in your journal. Study overseas generally has program features that do not require you to attend a classroom, but to explore. Such type of practical or on-the-field learning strengthens your learning and helps you learn the material fast.
If you are a part of international study program that requires you to attend the classes all day and have evenings and weekends as free days, then you can allot for fixed study hours for yourself. You can find some quiet and concentrated time in your room, host's home, public library or any other preferred place. Dedicating a fixed block of time for study before you sleep or have dinner would make you complete the work done in time and with accuracy. And when you are done with your projects, just chill out with friends by going out and explore the new culture around you.
In any circumstance refrain yourself from giving your studies the last priority. It can be very tempting to put your work at last on the priority list when you are surrounded by exciting fun and adventures in a new country. There may be many opportunities that come your way to distract from work, thus putting you off the academic track.
Use your resources to the most. Take help from your seniors who know a great deal about the college, the city and the culture. Believe it or not you can get recommendations for some awesome things to do and see. Most of the seniors are obliged to share their knowledge with you.
Studies overseas are usually an exciting mix of work, play and study. Initially you may find to channelized your energies to your college, but give it a try and set your priorities. Once the deadline of work and study are met, leisure time can be enjoyed without any tension. Maintain a " things to do today" list, which would keep you disciplined and focused throughout the day.
