A MESSAGE TO MY YOUNGER STUDENT SELF...

5 Things I wish I had known when I was just starting out on my student journey...

As a student, you've got a whole lot to navigate.

From learning new topics, to making new friends, to all the emotions that come with it. Whether you're just starting school, you're in the middle of college or you're heading to university... being a student definitely has it's challenges.

And it's only now that I realise just how many worries and stresses I could have avoided, had I known then... what I know now.

So, as the summer comes to an end and those 'back to school' vibes are right around the corner, I wanted to share with you a few short but sweet messages I would give to my younger student self if I had the chance...

Your intellectual ability is not hard wired from birth

This means that you don't need to be born the smart kid or clever one to ace your grades and sky rocket to the top of your class! Yes... you really can get that A* you never thought was possible!

Sometimes it really is the teacher that is the issue

Now, don't get me wrong - there are tons and tons of incredible teachers out there, who would bend over backwards to help you excel within your student journey.

However... there may be times when you and your teacher simply don't see eye to eye, making the entire learning process a whole lot harder.

So, if you ever find yourself in this predicament the best thing you can do is:

1. Not take it personally or believe it to be a reflection of your ability.

2. Try to move classrooms if possible.

3. Seek help outside of the classroom

4. Work that extra bit harder behind closed doors to make sure its you who gets the last laugh!

Get yourself organised, to avoid getting yourself overwhelmed

I truly believe that organisation is the key to student success - yep, seriously.

So before the year starts, get everything from your books, stationary, timetable, at home study space and anything else you can think of, prepped and ready for action!

Rest as hard as you work

If you're going to be able to work at 100% consistently (without burning out in the process), then you've got to learn to REST.

Yep. Strategically factoring in rest time throughout your study schedule is the key to creating a happy study-life balance.

Always put your mental health first

This is a big one.

I know everything feels important... from going to that party with those people, to acing that final exam. But at the end of the day, the only thing that TRULY matters is your own happiness, health and wellbeing.

So, in the midst of what could feel like an extremely chaotic season of life - I want you to make a promise to yourself that you will always, take the time to check in with yourself and that you will never push yourself beyond your limits (mentally or physically).

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What back to school (college or uni) messages would you give to your younger student self? Let us know in the comments section!