Finding a Study Life Balance While Abroad

By: Victoria San Martin, Simon Fraser University, winner of the Spring 2023 BC Study Abroad: Stories from Abroad Scholarship

Study Abroad Destination: Scotland

While studying abroad, I have been motivated to keep on top of my studies so that I can use my spare time to explore my hobbies, travel, and make new friends. It’s been quite the process, and while I haven’t always achieved the balance I’d hoped for, I’d like to share what I have tried, what’s been working, and what hasn’t.

Studying on campus (plus study buddies)

Finding a consistent study spot can be tricky but is so important. I have found I enjoy studying on campus. It helps add separation to my day as when I come home the main areas I spend time in are the kitchen and my room, so it’s nice to think of them as spaces where I cook, eat, call my family, and unwind, rather than study. I have made some of my closest friends here from my classes after one of them asked if anyone wanted to meet up to work on our midterm papers. Studying with others can be a challenge (especially if you become friends like we did!), but I have found there are ways to make it work, like agreeing on a time to take a break or going to a quiet space to avoid (too much) chatting. Overall, I am extremely grateful for my study friends because they motivate me to show up, and we have become a support system for each other in our academic and our personal lives.

Make it a routine

A big hurdle to studying is just starting. I’ll have a million things on my mind demanding my attention, and I won’t want to set aside the hours I know I need to study. I recently came across a quote that said, “Remember, you don’t live to study. Studying is just part of living.” Making it a routine where I remind myself that studying isn’t my life, just part of my life, can help me get it done and not overthink it. I have made a commitment in this period of my life to be a student, and I want to honor that. The amount of time and when to study is something so personal depending on your preferences and responsibilities. I am still working on finding what works best for me. For the most part, I have tried to take weekends off of studying so I can run errands like grocery shopping and set myself up for the week.

Take the pressure off

I find that mindset is integral to getting through the semester, especially when I struggle with perfectionism or worrying that my work won’t be good enough. I remind myself that I’m studying because I love learning and am passionate about my courses. Asking “what’s the worst that can happen?” often reminds myself that getting something done, even if it's far from perfect, is better than putting it off.