The holidays are upon us! A time for family, friends, and… intense studying? While many dream of sugar plums and summer vacations, learners like yourself might be pressured to balance festive cheer with academic success.
Whether you’re a distance learner or a traditional on-campus student, balancing festive fun and academic responsibilities is crucial. Here are some tips to help you navigate the holiday season while staying on top of your studies:
Time Management Tips
Create a Realistic Study Schedule: Plan your time wisely, considering holiday commitments and deadlines. Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks.
Set Up a Dedicated Study Space: Find a quiet and distraction-free area to study. This can be difficult during the holidays with family, but it will help you focus and improve your productivity.
Take Short Breaks: Don’t forget to take regular breaks to rest and recharge. Short, frequent breaks can help you stay focused and avoid burnout.
Staying Motivated
Set Clear Goals: Define your academic goals for the holiday season. Knowing what you want to achieve can help you stay motivated.
Reward Yourself: Reward yourself for completing tasks or achieving milestones. This positive reinforcement can help you stay on track.
Connect with Fellow Students: Studying with friends or classmates can make the process more enjoyable and less stressful.
Holiday Safety Tips
Be Mindful of Online Scams: Be cautious of phishing emails and suspicious links, especially during the holiday season.
Prioritise Mental Health: Take care of your mental health by practising relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.
Stay Safe While Traveling: If you're travelling, be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.
Leverage NWU’s Resources
NWU offers robust support services, including academic counselling, tutoring, and mental health support. If you face challenges, don’t hesitate to reach out. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey.
NWU’s Resources for Learners
NWU goes beyond traditional forums to facilitate your student life, allocating a holistic support system for learning. We are committed to enabling your success, from interactive platforms to academic assistance. Our counselling services address stress, time management, and motivation challenges. NWU also offers opportunities for professional development, ensuring that your education translates to workplace effectiveness. By choosing NWU, you’re selecting a university that truly believes in ‘making education work for you’.
Our Success Speaks For Itself
Unsure of why so many people trust NWU? We’ll let the numbers do the talking:
- In 2022, NWU produced the 3rd highest number of graduates in South Africa (13,735), following only UNISA and Tshwane University of Technology
- The Centre for World University Rankings also placed NWU in the top 4.2% of universities globally for 2024/2025.
These achievements underscore NWU’s reputation as a leader among universities that offer a great student life in South Africa.
NWU Backs Your Student Life
Establishing a healthy balance between academic excellence and other pursuits needn’t be a challenge, knowing the legacy of outstanding achievement that has gone before you.
NWU’s community of support and technological advancement means that studying with us can set you up for success.
Together, we will help you obtain your qualifications and propel your career forward.