How To Know You're Studying The Right Thing

Some essential advice from a student in the thick of it.

With many heading towards their first semester final exams, swimming in a sea of study notes and assessment due dates, it’s important to stay motivated by knowing for sure that what you’re studying is right for you.

But how can you know this for certain?

The first thing that’s important to realise is, no matter how perfect your course is, there will always be difficult tasks and requirements involved. Any worthwhile achievements in life will be challenging at times, or else every man and his dog would be in on it!

With this in mind, it’s important to weigh up the pros and cons of your studies over a long period of time before deciding whether your course is right for you or not. No one is going to feel fantastic about their course after pulling all-nighters for a week straight!

Secondly, you have to remember the ultimate career you’re striving towards and see your course as a means to an end. The challenges of study may seem never-ending at the moment, but you have to remember why you’re putting yourself through it. Assessments and exams are just hurdles to jump over before you reach the finish line.

Thirdly, remember that your course is just one aspect of your life. It’s important to keep a balanced perspective. Maintain hobbies, attend social events and have fun.

Often, your seemingly bleak study life will look a whole lot better after taking a break and enjoying yourself. This will help you to maintain motivation and positivity, allowing you to make a more balanced and thought-out decision on whether your area of study will allow you to have a balanced life in the long run.

Knowing that you’re studying the right thing is extremely important for all students, as it strongly affects your motivation, achievements and overall happiness.

However, don’t let the inevitable challenges cloud your judgment! Maintaining balance and a broad perspective and keeping in mind your long-term goals are essential in discovering if your course is truly the right one for you.

Congratulations to Clare for winning this writing challenge, answering: How To Know You're Studying The Right Thing. Clare wins a $50 Westfield gift card. For your chance to win, check out our latest writing challenges in our Comps section. Also, be sure to follow this guide on how to win the writing challenge!