Looking beyond success in extraordinary times
As many Loughborough University students tackle deadline after deadline during what may be the most unprecedented period of our generation, we want to offer solace to students who are struggling to see the light beyond the intangible, Panopto-lead learning which does so little to facilitate academic progress which is truly reflective of true ability and potential.
We have heard from many Loughborough students that the current pressure to perform - in the throes of a pandemic which has shook the UK and its population of 2.5 million students to their core - has become overwhelming to manage. Professionals and academics alike who have been asked to work or study from home feel they have had little consideration for such a monumental change in the structure and environment of their everyday lives.
Students have either dispersed to their home abodes or have remained in student accommodation, emptied of their usual sociable vibrancy. The repercussions of such transitions have been, for a large majority, detrimental to student wellbeing. Even after the Prime Minister’s address to the country on Sunday evening, young people continue to feel confounded by the uncertainty which still lays ahead of their studies and of their rudely interrupted personal and professional lives.
We hope to offer solace to all those who are bearing the weight of the highly unconventional state of their studies at present; you are amongst millions of students who are frustrated and overwhelmed by the changes that have dawned so rapidly upon our communities.
Consider utilising the time in which the world has come to a halt to slow down yourself. While it may currently be a crucial time for many students submitting assignments, completing exams remotely and preparing for graduation, the freedom from previous commitments and responsibilities could be seen as a prime opportunity to reinvest some energy into other, more wellbeing-centric pursuits.
To balance academic and professional duties with those which concern personal health and happiness is a lifelong competence which will serve each and every one of us in every stage of our life cycle.
Set clear boundaries when it comes to working from home, e.g. terminating your studies after a certain time each day and leaving entire days to rest
Set a time and a place aside to reflect on how you are faring mentally and physically and identify potential causes and remedies for your struggles, e.g. writing weekly in a journal
Reach out to family and friends who are supportive and offer a listening ear when you need it
Alleviate the pressure to be productive and allow yourself time to wind down and take care of yourself; try not to obsess over professional progress during an economic crisis which is beyond your control
Importantly, remember that there is a wealth of resources available out there to help you protect your own mental and physical wellbeing such as https://www.mind.org.uk/ and the WHO website. Since Loughborough’s term does not officially end until mid-June, the university support services will also continue to offer advice for all those who need it.
If yourself or any friends happen to need assistance in finding Loughborough University student housing and accommodation for next year, do not hesitate to contact us via WhatsApp (07845532180) or email (enquiries@clanliving.com).