Top 10 Tips for Mature Aged Students Studying Psychology‍

Psychology is a fascinating subject, and it is never too late to start studying it. However, as a mature age student, you may face certain challenges that younger students do not. In this blog, we will discuss the top 10 tips for mature age students studying psychology.

1. Be clear about your reasons WHY

‍As a mature age student, you will likely have unique and more challenging responsibilities compared to younger students. Perhaps you are looking to change careers or gain a better understanding of yourself and others. Whatever your goals are, define your reasons WHY for studying psychology and why you’re making this huge financial, time, and lifestyle sacrifice to go back to university and start again. This WHY will help to motivate you when you feel frustrated or tired while studying.

2. Manage your time wisely

‍Create a schedule to live by, prioritise your tasks and your health, and stick to your plan without fail. As a mature age student, you may have other responsibilities such as work or family while juggling your psychology degree coursework simultaneously. Therefore, it is essential to manage your time wisely in order to maintain your wellbeing.

‍Key recommendations: Print 3+ months worth of calendars and mark all your deadlines (full visibility); Create internal deadlines 5 days prior to submission date; Wake up early to create momentum with studying before 8am; Food prep once a week to remove weekly cooking time; Watch pre-recorded lectures on 1.5 or 2 x speed; Set 30 minute timers to challenge yourself. Gradually increase ‘focus time’; Allocate daily word count goals to complete assignments on time.

3. Stay motivated with a daily priming exercise for success

‍Studying psychology as a mature age student can be really challenging, so staying motivated is essential for success. Something that has changed my life has been a 14-minute daily priming meditation that creates a sense of calm focus for the rest of your day, reducing the risk of procrastination or distraction - led by Tony Robbins. Video link here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=faTGTgid8Uc

‍4. Utilise online study resources - FREE and paid

‍There are numerous high quality online resources available (free tools, webinars, HD toolkits) designed to help psychology students including mature age students, that will help you develop study habits, develop a plan for your career, and build the fundamental scientific writing and statistics skills you need to succeed in your psychology coursework. Take advantage of these resources to supplement your coursework and gain a deeper understanding of the subject. Access heaps of resources here: https://www.getpsychedtutoring.com/new-website-pages-teachworks/score-hd-toolkit

‍5. Connect with your psychology course lecturers and Honours supervisors (i.e. networking)

‍Your instructors can be a valuable resource for you as a mature age student. They can provide guidance and support as you navigate your studies. Make an effort to connect with your instructors, ask questions, and seek feedback on your work, ask for internship, job, and even publication opportunities by offering volunteer data collection and research study support to help them publish quicker. 6. Network with other students (i.e. create a supportive network)Although studying a psychology degree is very competitive and many of your cohort will be younger than you, don’t isolate yourself from other students. Networking with other students can be beneficial in many ways to help each other grow together. You can share resources, brainstorm about assignment requirements, study together for motivation, and support each other throughout your studies. You may also be able to make valuable connections in the field of psychology. You may also find it helpful to join a study group or attend online forums where you can connect with other students.

7. Master your writing and statistics skills to score a High Distinction (HD) average

‍If that is your ultimate goal is to become a psychologist, then it’s critical that you aim high with your academic grades to increase the chances of being accepted into an Honours and Masters degree. Your grading is determined by your scores obtained from written and statistical assignments, so it’s crucial to develop these skills as a mature age student.

Key recommendations: (1) Access these comprehensive toolkits that help you implement these skills on all your assignments; (2) Practice writing essays, literature reviews, and other research papers to improve your skills and seek feedback a specialised tutor.

8. Take care of yourself

‍Studying psychology can be stressful, so it is essential to take care of yourself. Get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and eat a healthy diet with lots of vegetables, protein, and healthy fats. Taking care of your physical and mental health will help you stay focused and motivated.

9. Embrace your life experience

‍As a mature age student, you have a wealth of life experience that can be valuable in the field of psychology and make you a desirable Clinical Masters of Psychology candidate. Embrace your experience and use it to enrich your studies and your application for Honours and Masters. You may be able to provide unique insights and perspectives that younger students do not have.

10. Find a psychology tutor if you feel overwhelmed with your assignments

‍Mature age psychology students will benefit from finding a psychology tutor or coach like Get Psyched, who can provide personalised guidance and support to fast-track your success and work smart with your busy schedule. Help is only a click away! Check out Get Psyched tutoring services for more help.In conclusion, studying psychology as a mature age student can be challenging, but it can also be rewarding. By following these tips, you can make the most of your studies and achieve your goals. Remember to stay motivated, manage your time wisely, and take care of yourself. Good luck on your journey!