Navigating the Challenges of Studying Online

When I first decided to pursue a degree in Law and Criminology, I was excited but apprehensive about what the future would hold. Living in Griffith, I knew studying online would offer me the flexibility I needed, but I also knew it would come with its own set of challenges. What I didn’t fully anticipate was just how much of a juggling act it would be to manage my studies alongside work commitments and life’s everyday demands.

The Struggle: Finding Balance

Maintaining a delicate balance between work and study proved to be more demanding than I had initially anticipated. My typical day began with early morning study sessions, followed by a shift at my part-time job, and concluded with long hours of late-night coursework. For a while, I convinced myself that I could juggle it all, but soon, the cracks began to show. Exhaustion set in, motivation waned, and I found myself increasingly overwhelmed by the competing demands of my academic and professional responsibilities.

Finding a Way Forward

The turning point came when I realised that I couldn’t keep pushing myself to the brink. I had to find a healthier balance, or I risked burning out completely. Here’s how I began to turn things around:

1. Setting a Realistic Schedule: I started by creating a more manageable timetable. Instead of trying to fit everything in every day, I designated specific days and times for study, work, and rest. It wasn’t easy at first, but gradually, I found a rhythm that worked. This also meant learning to say no to extra shifts or social events when I needed to focus on my studies.
2. Prioritising Self-Care: I realised that neglecting my well-being was counterproductive. I began incorporating regular breaks, exercise, and proper meals into my routine. Taking care of myself helped me stay focused and more productive when it was time to hit the books.
3. Leaning on Support: One of the most valuable lessons I learned was the importance of seeking help when I needed it. The Country Universities Centre (CUC) Western Riverina emerged as an invaluable resource, providing not only quiet study spaces and reliable technology but also a sense of belonging and community. Engaging with fellow students who faced similar struggles offered both practical advice and emotional encouragement, reinforcing the fact that I was not alone in this journey.
4. Staying Organised: To prevent last-minute stress, I adopted a more organised approach to managing my workload. Utilising planners and digital tools to track deadlines, study sessions, and work commitments allowed me to break down large tasks into manageable segments. This shift towards proactive time management helped alleviate the anxiety associated with looming deadlines.

Overcoming the Obstacles

While the struggle to balance work and study is ongoing, I’ve learned that it’s possible to manage both with the right approach. Flexibility and self-compassion have become central to my approach. There are still days when things don’t go as planned, but I’m learning to adapt and not be too hard on myself when life throws a curveball. Looking back, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. Studying online in my hometown has allowed me to stay close to home, maintain my job, and still pursue a degree I’m passionate about. For anyone else in a similar position, remember: it’s okay to struggle. What matters is finding a balance that works for you, asking for help when you need it, and never losing sight of why you started this journey in the first place. The road may be tough, but the destination is worth every step.