Our top 6 reasons not to study (and how we combat them!).
When you think about studying, do you often think; How can I fit it all in? How can I afford it? Am I really smart enough for that? And, what about the ‘mum guilt’ that goes along with doing something for yourself? And then there is the ‘I’m too old to change careers’ or, my personal favourite, I can’t even find time to complete the form – how will I manage to do the study? With all of these doubts in the way, it’s a wonder anyone ever manages to study!
We’ve all been there. It is a tough thing to take the leap. Humans are known to be cognitive misers: we conserve mental resources whenever possible, especially when facing tasks not viewed as ‘essential to survival’. And, let’s face it, although studying is a great way to get an advancement in your career or to find one… is it really essential to survival? That’s why, we put it to the backburner, we focus on the ‘here-and-now’. In other words, we put off studying .
Starting a course can be a daunting experience. You’re constantly learning new things, spreading your wings and managing the financial constraints that so often come with studying as an adult. It can be stressful, but it can also be the most rewarding time of your life.
We’ve addressed some of the key concerns that, as an adult learner, you may have:
How can I fit it all in?
When researching your course, look for options that allow you to have a flexible learning experience. Having the ability to complete a course around your available time is one of the most beneficial factors. Basically, the more flexibility your course offers, the easier your studies are to manage. Online is a popular choice as it allows you to work on what you want, when you want and from where you want (i.e. from the comfort of your own home). This is particularly handy if managing childcare or other work commitments.
Medical Administration Training provide a learning schedule that suits you. Because there are no schedules, you can complete your chosen course in record time. By not locking yourself into a classroom timetable situation, you are in control. And, having that control dramatically takes the pressure off. Of course we supply a training plan to assist you and keep you on track.
How can I afford it?
It is important to avoid adding financial stress to study stress. From textbooks, to equipment, to transport, there are several ways to cut down your course costs. Studying online alleviates all of those factors. In addition, try and find a program that delivers a payment plan option on your course. With Medical Administration Training courses, you can pay off your course in interest free weekly or fortnightly payments. Because there are no hidden costs for textbooks etc. you won’t get any nasty surprises along the way.
Am I really smart enough for that?
Just like with any major life decision, when we worry about something, we can build it up to be a bigger issue than it really is. This is often the case when people consider studying, they have so much doubt in their ability to learn the material that it leaves them feeling so overwhelmed they don’t bother pursuing it. Luckily, institutions offer a range of support services to get you up to speed. Look out for the support services available, they are there to help you through your course. Remember, you go into a course to learn – no one expects you to know everything already (otherwise what is the point of doing a course!).
Ah, the ‘Mum Guilt’!
In July, tennis superstar Serena Williams tweeted that her daughter, Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr., had taken her first steps ― and that it happened while Williams was training. A month later, she posted a photo on Instagram and wrote in the caption that she recently felt like she “was not a good mum.”
“I work a lot, I train, and I’m trying to be the best athlete I can be,” she wrote. “However, that means although I have been with [Olympia] every day of her life, I’m not around as much as I would like to be.” If you’re a mum or dad, you’ve likely fallen victim to the sense of overwhelming guilt that comes over you when you put yourself first. Remember that making time for yourself, and in particular for your own education, you are making it a ‘win’ for your family too. A solution for the ‘Mum guilt’ is to modify study hours to benefit the family schedule, be organised, and merge tasks to multitask. Medical Administration Training’s online learning platform allows you to work at a time suitable for you.
I’m too old to change careers!
If you’re considering returning to study, it’s likely that you have more than a few reservations. Heading back to the classroom can be stressful, but it’s not as scary as it may seem. A big misconception of tertiary study is that it is for the young. 41% of students participating in higher education are aged between 25-64 years (Source: ABS). Mature age students generally do very well when participating in study programs, as they tend to be highly motivated, focused and eager to learn. One of the key tips in the ‘career change’ process is to look at what transferable skills you have and use them to your advantage but most importantly you need to learn how to do the job you are looking at transitioning into and what better way than completing a short course or Certificate qualification. The next best thing to experience is an education!
I struggled at school, therefore I will struggle to complete a course!
If you didn’t enjoy high school or found it difficult, you may be quick to dismiss any further study. You should know, however, that Registered Training Organisations (RTO’s) like Medical Administration Training, offer a completely different learning experience. Many students find that they thrive given the opportunity to pursue study in an area of interest. If it’s been a long time since you last studied, you may be surprised how your skills have developed. In addition, with courses offered through Medical Administration Training there are no exams!
Starting a new course can be daunting. You’re nervous, and that’s ok, but don’t let that stop you from starting.