If you're not aware already, this school year is quite different from previous ones. With restrictions and new policies being put in place regarding the way we'll be learning and even socialising, I think it's safe to say that a lot of things are changing this time round.
I know especially for those entering university for the first time, some of you might not be getting the Freshers' experience you might have anticipated. Even in my university our Welcome Week events were all done online, which meant that the excitement of physically meeting new people wasn't really there.
Even when it comes to studying, online classes aren't really a preference for those of us who engage more with physical classes. There might be so many distractions and other things that might not make it suitable for us to really focus.
But in spite of all of that, I think we still need to try our best to enjoy this school year. As long as we have the opportunity to study, we might as well make sure we give our all into making this school year the best that it can be. Here are 5 ways in which you can make the most out of the school year.
1. Treat your online classes as if they were physical classes
Wake up early, have a shower, get dressed, have breakfast and prep yourself for every class. Doing the things you used to do when physical classes were still going on might just help train your mind to be in that study mode.
Try not to have your classes while lying in bed because no matter how mentally strong you think you may be, you might just end up falling asleep during a class. And I'm pretty sure you don't want to end up in an embarrassing situation if you're caught. No-one's trying to become a meme.
2. Engage in your classes as much as you can
Try your best to take part in all your classes, whether online or physical. Online classes, especially. If you can, turn your camera on and participate as much as you can. No-one wants to feel like they're talking to a brick wall, not even your teachers. They want to engage with you as much as they can so try making the effort too.
Ask questions if you don't understand and help others who may be struggling to grasp any concept taught in class. Sharing is caring, so share your knowledge and view on topics as much as possible.
3. Find safe ways of socialising
School isn't only about the educational aspect but the social aspect as well. Even though it is advisable to follow restrictions and regulations put in place by the school and government, you can find safer ways to socialise with your friends and meet new people. Video calls, small meetups that fall within regulations, virtual movie nights or even just getting to know your flatmates better.
You can even join society events taking place in the university. I know societies in my university are required to meet online for now but you can still have lots of fun virtually even if you can't meet physically just yet. Remember that in having fun, it's essential that you do it in a safe and responsible manner.
4. Plan your activities
Time management and self discipline are probably two key skills you'll need this academic year. Being able to plan your activities and judiciously sticking to fulfilling them will help you keep on top of your school work and other affairs. It's good to make To-do lists and keep a calendar to organise events and remember deadlines. Learn to balance your time and sort out your priorities.
Another thing you should do is to always check your emails. It's something I've learned over the past 3 years of university. You never know what great things you might miss out on if you don't check your emails on time. Plus, it's not fun checking them after letting them pile up. Imagine going through 100+ emails in one go.
5. Grow in your Faith
I've made it the last point because it's essentially the most important point of all. Without God we can do nothing at all (John 15:5). So even as we try our hardest to study, make good grades as well as new friends, we need to remember always that our relationship with God is more important than anything else.
Make time for studying His Word, make prayer a constant (even if it's using 5 minutes to speak to God throughout the day), talk to God about everything and trust that He is working all things together for your good. Tough times will come during the school year; it's inevitable. But God is holding our hand through it all and He'll help us safely navigate our way through the school year.
Do you have any more pointers for getting through this new school year? Comment down below any advice you'd like to give or email/message me on social media. I'd be happy to hear your tips because I know I'll probably need them too. Enjoy your week.
Stay blessed and stay a blessing
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