Your Survival Guide to Postgraduate Study!

Whenever I tell people that I came straight onto the MSc from being an undergraduate, I usually get the same response: a smirk and comment that I’m only doing this to stretch out my time at university. Whilst I’d like to disagree, I 100% can’t, as it’s a large part of why I came back! Added to that, the fact that I love being a student ambassador and didn’t want to leave the team just yet, it seemed only natural I stay on…right?

On a serious note, thoughts were already in my head as I want to work as a Specialist Diabetes Podiatrist within a hospital, which requires further education and experience. So, I figured why not? I know the Podiatry staff and am comfortable because I’ve been here for the last four years. Plus, I have no other commitments, so it would seem logical I just complete it now, and not worry about whether I can later on.

And finally, I have to mention that my three undergrad friends are also on the MSc. (Remember how in school your parents would tell you not to do something because your friends are, well…here we are). What can I say, we discussed it numerous times and eventually decided ‘one for all and all for one’. Moral support and what not, am I right?

But, it worked! I am a classic young adult of this generation and will happily climb into bed for a nap to NOT do my work. (PS. don’t copy that for your CVs). However, Team Backpackers were very tight knit during undergrad; pushing, supporting and celebrating together when we all came out with a 1^st! If not for them, I definitely wouldn’t be doing as well as I currently am on my Master’s.

But for now:

The Application Process

Around May 2018, I began asking my lecturers questions about the Master’s. I kid you not, whenever I asked about the application deadline, they’d just laugh and say: ‘Like the day before’. So, guess who took this literally and only applied a couple of weeks before, because they were unsure?

Now you may think ‘How has this girl managed to make it this far?’ and honestly, I have no answer. I was still waiting for official approval on induction day but I made it, and it’s all been fine (sort of).

Moral of the story: Get your application in early to save yourself the worry.

For student finance, double check you’re entitled, because it may differ and this can be a big concern. Visiting PG Study Fairs can help, they’ll have stands from subject areas, as well as finance and other support services. If you can’t get there, look on the university’s website to get more information.

Also, ask people you know who already doing a postgraduate degree questions. I wish I had because it may have helped me decide which modules to pick, or what to do for my dissertation.

Doom’s Day - Sorry, Induction Day

The first day of school again and it doesn’t necessarily get easier. Everyone is now all grown and has their own personality out in full force. But that’s the best part of university, you’re done with that nonsense! Just remain cool, calm and collected, and remember everyone else is back for their first day too.

Speak to that stranger next to you; maybe they have a cool job related to a module you’re taking. Or, maybe you never want to speak to them again, but that’s okay, just pick a different seat next time.

Tip: Be wary of those trying to prove how much they know and what they do at work. Sometimes you will question why you’re there and whether you know as much, but keep doing you! Everyone at postgrad will have varying degrees (pun non-intended) of knowledge, but as long as you know what you need for your exams/assignments you’ll be A-okay.

The Long Haul

The Postgrad timetable is usually more relaxed. For me, every couple of months I was in for teaching for 1/2 weeks consecutively.

Pros: You can get a part-time job (or full-time if you’re doing the part-time course), pick up more hours during the weeks not in, and no 9.00am lectures!

Cons: When you’re in, these will be loooong days full of information, so snacks at the ready and get some sleep!

Tip: If an assignment is due in months later, do NOT leave it until the final month. Please. I’m begging you to make your own life easier! You’ll forget certain hints, tips and info and why stress yourself out unnecessarily? (Take this from someone who has had to do a number of all-nighters before submission dates). Even if it’s 50 words per day, it’s still progress.

As the saying goes, “Don’t suffer in silence”. Talk to the lecturers or look at applying for extensions if you’re struggling. Most will be flexible, as they know it can be difficult at postgraduate.

Your Alter Ego

Public announcement: You’re entitled to a life outside your studies!

Yes, it will be difficult. Yes, you’ll probably want to cry. Yes, you’ll most definitely want to give up. But remember it’s a postgraduate degree, it’s not designed to be easy. It’s also not designed to take over your life… (I think)!

Check if there’s a PG Society which has events and socials for PG students. Take a break. Enjoy your time being a student again! After all, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.”

If you see yourself as a future podiatrist you can find out more about my subject area here: Podiatry MSc

Interested in postgraduate study? Book a place on our next Postgraduate Study Fair and explore your options.