From undergraduate to postgraduate studies, a lot changes - from the amount of time you are in university to the criteria required to pass. Below are my top 5 tips to get you through the assessment periods on your postgrad course and take up the help that Northumbria University offer.
1. Get plenty of sleep!
This may seem obvious, but getting enough sleep will give your body time to recharge and rest your brain. You should aim for at least 8 hours of good quality sleep every night - pulling an all-nighter might seem like a good way to power through those assignments, but it certainly won't benefit your health. Getting some sleep will make you more productive and motivated to ace that essay.
2. Tutors
Your tutors are there to help, so don't be scared to approach them. Email them and set up a one-to-one if you're having trouble with a project. They'll more than likely invite you along to a workshop or seminar to help explain the assignment and answer any questions you may have. These are the best sessions to attend as they'll give you handy hints on how to pick up extra marks and clear up any confusion.
3. Extensions / PECs
The university's Student Support and Wellbeing team is there to help you, so don't see them as the enemy. If something happens in your personal life or you have a DSSR, the university will do its best to accommodate you with an extension or some extra help. Find out more here.
4. Stress
Do not stress out!! There are times which will be stressful but the more you freak out, the less productive you will be. Staying calm may feel like the hardest thing to do, but sometimes you just need to close your laptop, walk away and run a hot bath. Some time away to clear your head will be more beneficial than panicking.
5. Friends / course mates
Whether you live on your own or with friends, your course mates will be going through the same thing as you and will be there to help you. Talk to your friends and arrange a catch-up with them to get away from your work and chill out. Speaking with other people on your course may also help to clear up any project-specific questions you might have and you may also find a new study buddy!
I hope that these tips help to guide you through your assessment period and make you feel less worried about your postgrad studies!
