5 top tips for a productive year at uni

Whether it’s your first or final year in uni, with Christmas over and the New Year here, it’s time to get your head down and focus on your end of semester goals. Whether it’s passing your exams, handing in your dissertation or completing your placement, here are some top tips to make sure you have a productive year ahead.

1. Keep a diary

As your workload increases and deadlines dawn, it’s important that you know exactly what’s going on and when. It’s a good idea to buy a diary and keep it in your room or bag, so that you can instantly check to see what’s due and when. That way, they’ll be no last minute panics or excuses for missed deadlines.

2. Get some sleep

If there’s one thing you need while you study it’s sleep. Lack of sleep can affect your performance. Without sleep, you’ll find it hard to concentrate in lectures, you’ll struggle to remember important pieces of information and you’re more likely to make mistakes in your work. So as tempting as another night out on the town might be, if you’ve got a busy day ahead, you might want to think about having an early night instead. You’ll be far more productive after a good night’s sleep.

3. Exercise

Whether you’re working out in the gym, jogging around the park or doing yoga in your room, exercising regularly holds many benefits. Along with health-related benefits and increased energy levels, exercising increases the blood flow to the brain, which helps to improve your awareness, alertness and focus; which is just what you need while you study and to be productive.

4. Eat healthy

Filling up ready to tackle your dissertation? If so, you might want to avoid foods high in fat (such as burgers and pizzas). These foods require your digestive system to work harder, which reduces the oxygen levels in the brain and will make you feel groggy and lethargic – and not wanting to focus on work. Instead, opt for healthier foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat proteins as these can improve concentration, alertness, problem-solving and productivity – meaning you’ll have your work completed in no time!

5. Have some fun

Doing well at university doesn’t mean you have to spend the whole time with your head in a book. It’s important to take some time out and enjoy yourself too. After all, one of the best things about being a student is the freedom and lifestyle that goes with it. Catch up with friends over a drink, watch the latest blockbuster at the cinema or indulge in some retail therapy. Knowing you’ve got something exciting planned at the end of the day or weekend will make finishing that essay much more worthwhile!

Whether you’re starting university in September for the first time, or you’re continuing into your next year of study, make Host your student home. Contact us today to find out more about our student accommodation and living with us at Host.