New year. New Beginnings. It is the time of the year to think about what you want to achieve for the upcoming year. There are different goals you can focus on to make 2023 a successful year as a student.

1. Choosing the right course.

When choosing a course to study, don’t just choose it for the sake of being able to spend more time with your mates, rather select for your future endeavors. You may be a person that can be shy and not wanting to make new friends, but it is a skill that you will need to learn to focus on, so pick a course that interests you in the long term. Becoming a student is one of the first steps of becoming an adult, so don’t be afraid.

 2. Learning a new language.

Learning a new language can be beneficial for your future career prospects. Many businesses are looking for employees who are multilingual, to be able to grow their business overseas and you could be that person who assists them to do so. Furthermore, learning a new language can improve your memory, enhance concentration, enable better multitasking and listening.

 3. Learn to budget.

The best time in life to learn to budget is while you are young and studying. From paying your tution fees and rent, you will need to understand how to break down how you spend your money so as to make sure you’re not becoming broke at the end of the day. Take your time to figure out what are your essential needs and wants during this time, and you will quickly work out the best budget to get through this period in your life.

 4. Take a part time job.

Taking a part time job is not all about making money to support yourself as you study, but also learning about real world skills such as time management. Developing these skills in a part time job is the starting point that will help you to get an understanding of what employers expect in a workplace as you search for and progress towards your ideal future career.

 5. Participate in extra-curricular activities.

As a student, it is a time when you can explore the real you and this process can be assisted by participating in activities outside of your studies. Learning to communicate with others and managing your time effectively are skills that develop through taking up activities outside your area of study and help better you. In addition to this, you could end up making new friendships that last a lifetime. As people say, you don’t know until you try.

 6. Volunteer with a charity organisation.

Volunteering is a great way to make an impact on other people’s lives and to improve your mental health. Past studies have shown that many employers will hire people who have volunteered with an organisation over other candidates who don’t have volunteer experience. When choosing an organisation, make sure it is something you are passionate about and that way you will give 110%.

 7. Exercise regularly.

Taking the time to exercise during your studies has both long and short-term benefits. Exercising as a student improves your cognitive ability, which helps get your brain working better. It will help you in the long term too, making your quality of life stronger.

 8. Get enough sleep.

It’s great to make friends while going out to socialise, but make sure you allow yourself to get enough hours of sleep during your studies. Past studies on sleep patterns of students have shown that students who have had 9+ hours of sleep have better marks than students who have 6 or less hours. Students are all different and we have our own way of doing things, but generally you will need to get those zzz’s to stay focused, improve concentration, and boost your academic performance.

 9. Screen time.

In 2023, students are surrounded by screens and technology almost 24/7 and that can benefit but also hinder your studies. Before the year of study begins, make a plan to set out time during the day to use your screens productively. Not using the screens correctly can cause increased stress, poor sleep quality, and decrease your attention span.

Student Housing Australia can’t wait to see what the next year brings for you! Wishing you nothing but happiness and success in reaching your goals this year.