Australia is one of the most loved study-abroad destination for student. The student cities in the country has a lot to offer to international student. Australia is home to some of the most prestigious universities in the world. The academic reputation, teaching strategies, relevant exposure and quality of life are some of the reasons why students choose Australia for their education. However, being an international student is not always rainbow and sun-shine. one of the best difficult task to manage Work Study Balance for International Students.
International students often face various problems during their education. While some face feelings of homesickness and loneliness, some students find it difficult to balance their work and studies simultaneously. Due to limited budget and high expenses, students choose to work part-time during their course. However, balancing both of them is the real task.
In this article, the top tips for juggling the struggle of work and study for international students are discussed. So, let’s begin.
- Weekly Schedule: When you have so many things listed in your to-do list, it becomes confusing to plan them. An easy way to plan these tasks is by creating a weekly schedule where you write your tasks. You can plan out all your tasks for a week, so that you don’t overburden yourself. Add your assignments, tests, revision, study time, projects, work and more to your weekly schedule.
- Prioritizing Tasks: Now, if you are wondering how you can add all the tasks in a single week’s schedule, then there is a way. All you need to do is mark your tasks as urgent or non urgent. The trick is to simply plan your week by prioritizing your tasks. Students can prioritize them on the basis of deadlines and importance. For example, if your exams start next week, make a schedule as per your exam dates and subjects.
- Academic Requirements: Never forget the reason why you went to Australia for the first time. The main aim of an international student in any city is attending their choice of university and studying as well. Understand what your university’s requirements are, how their curriculum works, and what the course offers. This can be done only by attending lectures regularly, networking with professors, participating in class, and more.
- Find Flexible Work: Another way to manage both work and studies at the same time is by finding the right job. Having an easy job option will result in better stress coping mechanisms and realistic schedules. Students should focus on finding flexible jobs or remote ones. If they can find a part-time job that’s location is near their accommodation, it will be easier for them since they don’t need to travel much. Moreover, a job with flexible hours and remote working will be easier in managing both studies and work.
- Take Breaks: Another important thing to do while working and studying is taking a break. Many students end up experiencing burn out and failing classes because they did not give themselves a break. This is applicable to all students studying hard and working extra hours to earn a few more bucks. Students can do so by setting their own break timings or using techniques such as Pomodoro technique. Here, students must set a timer of 25 minutes on their clock. Then, they need to study or do their work for those 25 minutes, and then take a 5-minute break. In those 5 minutes, they can do whatever relaxes them.
- Financial Planning: If you are studying at the University of Melbourne, then make sure you research well about the cost of living. International students living on a strict budget can manage their work and studies by making wise financial decisions. For example, opt for affordable accommodation in Melbourne. Moreover, look for jobs that pay well and match your expertise. Plan your budget wisely; allocating your expenses, such as tuition fees, food, transport, and more.
- Practice Self-Care: The most important tip to juggle between work and study is by taking care of your mental health. Students can practice several self-care techniques to ensure they don’t experience heightened stress or burnout. Some such techniques include breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, listening to music, and more. The idea is to enjoy your student life as well and do what you love when you feel tired. Remember, if your mind is not in the right place, you will face problems.
- Seek Help: Being an international student and managing work as well is not an easy task. It comes with several challenges that can take a toll on a student’s overall well-being. Hence, during tough times, when studying for the course and working for financial support both are clashing, students can use the above-mentioned tips. Lastly, if at any moment you feel that you may burn out, or that you need help from a professional, feel free to contact one. Students can reach out to professional counseling services offered by universities or private ones.
