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Social Life vs. Study Life: What Keeps You Sane During Your Master’s?

What are your go-to ways to unwind or socialize while juggling postgrad deadlines?

Reply 1

plan not only study, research and continuous development of good habits but make them fun by engaging with other students if you can! this can be anything from starting an impromptu debate about a specific topic especially if it is something dense or using online tools to make dense topics more 'interactive' with pictures etc. In terms of unwinding and socialising, planning is key. having likeminded people with you helps but thats not always possible so: exercise, get outside for fresh air, go to socials, work on something like a side project which really helped me at points i was overwhelmed and needed a distraction. hope that helps

Reply 2

Original post
by Ibthesage
What are your go-to ways to unwind or socialize while juggling postgrad deadlines?

Hello,

Whilst obtaining a postgrad degree is the reason for you attending the university, you really can't spend all your time studying for it - you have to have a break and socialising and going out to have fun are as important as the academic research. Have you considered joining in any clubs or societies at university? They are a good way of meeting other people who share the same interests, hobbies, sports as you do, with the regular meet ups there are planned activities that don't require too much organisation to attend as you just need to turn up and take part. The clubs give an opportunity to socialise with other people.

Also, you could meet up with other postgrads between study periods, or during lunch breaks etc for coffee or a meal, pretty informal, easy to arrange and a good chance to socialise with other postgrads and share experiences or issues etc that maybe only postgrads understand.

Set aside a regular time each day to go for a walk around your area and just totally switch off from studying. A 20 minute walk recharges your batteries and helps to give you a boost of energy to study afterwards.

I think its really important to keep on with your hobbies and interests while you study. Time might be tighter but you really do need to make time for yourself as well as working, otherwise you might find you burn out, or lose motivation etc.
I hope some of these ideas help!
Jess
PhD English
University of Chester

Reply 3

Hi there,

For me, it’s been helpful to join local interest groups outside of uni a good way to unwind and meet people beyond campus. I also invite coursemates to hang out after lectures to stay social without too much extra effort.

Looking back on how far I’ve come since undergrad helps when things get stressful. I’m currently balancing my MA dissertation proposal and a PhD application, so I know it can get intense but having future goals to work towards keeps me focused.

All the best with your studies! 🙂

Megan (LJMU Postgraduate Rep)

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