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It’s no surprise that <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/moving-out-and-managing-independence">moving out of home</a> can be a daunting and financially challenging experience. And for many of us, our finances may be the main hurdle separating us from <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-know-your-future-course-path">our goals and dreams</a>.
Here at RESN, we don’t want anyone who wants to go to university to miss out so here’s a brief run-down on the financial aid and scholarships available to students from regional and remote backgrounds to help get you to where you want to go:
<h4>- Youth Allowance</h4>
<a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/youth-allowance">Youth Allowance</a> is a fortnightly payment available through Centrelink for full-time students aged 16–24. For regional or rural students living away from home, there are two main ways of qualifying for Youth Allowance:
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Being classified as dependent, which means your payment amount may depend on your <a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/topics/youth-allowance-income-and-assets-tests/30876#parentmeanstest">parents’ or guardians’ income</a>.
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Being classified as independent, which means that students living in regional and remote areas will need to have worked <a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/youth-allowance-students-and-australian-apprentices/how-much-you-can-get/dependent-or-independent/if-youre-independent-through-work#parttime">15 hours a week</a> for at least two years or earn 75% or more of the <a href="https://guides.dss.gov.au/guide-social-security-law/1/1/n/12">National Training Wage Schedule</a> rate ($35,914, as of February 1, 2021) in any 14 month period.
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You can find out whether the area you are living in is classified as ‘regional’ or ‘remote’ through the <a href="https://www.centrelink.gov.au/custsite_sras/sras/regionalAreaPage.jsf?wec-appid=sras&amp;wec-locale=en#stay">Student Regional Area search</a>. If you’ve checked your <a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/youth-allowance-students-and-australian-apprentices/who-can-get-it">eligibility</a>, you can start your claim <a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/youth-allowance-students-and-australian-apprentices/how-claim">here</a>.
If you are an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander student, you may also be eligible for <a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/abstudy">ABSTUDY</a>, which will financially support you throughout your course, apprenticeship or traineeship. If you are receiving Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY and living away from home, you can also apply for <a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/rent-assistance">Rent Assistance</a> where you receive regular extra payments to help pay your rent and living costs.
<h4>- Relocation Scholarships</h4>
If you are receiving Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY and need to live away from a regional or remote area to complete full-time study, you may be eligible to receive a <a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/relocation-scholarship/how-much-you-can-get">Relocation Scholarship</a> where you will be paid $4,626 in the first year, $2,314 per year in the second and third years and $1,156 per year after that.
<h4>- Fares Allowance</h4>
<a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/fares-allowance">Fares Allowance</a> helps with travel costs between your family home in a regional or remote area and your place of tertiary study during certain points in the academic year. You need to receive Youth Allowance to be eligible.
<h4>- Tertiary Access Payment</h4>
<a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/tertiary-access-payment">Tertiary Access Payment</a> is a one-off payment of $5,000 paid in two installments to help higher education students with the cost of moving to study after finishing Year 12 or equivalent.
<h4>- Rural &amp; Regional Enterprise Scholarships</h4>
<a href="https://www.dese.gov.au/rres">Rural &amp; Regional Enterprise Scholarships</a> are available to students commencing a new course of study next year, studying on campus, online or via distance education, and studying from six months full-time up to eight years part-time. Eligible students may receive up to $18,000 each (e.g. for a full-time, four-year qualification) with an extra $500 also available to support an internship. You can find more information on when to apply <a href="https://www.dese.gov.au/rres">here</a>.
<h4>- Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Scholarship</h4>
The <a href="https://www.bendigobank.com.au/community/scholarships/bendigo-bank-scholarships/">Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Scholarship</a> is available to students living in a regional or remote area commencing full-time study in an undergraduate bachelor’s degree in Australia. You can receive $5,000 for a year with accommodation and study resources covered but it can be renewed for a second year depending on your academic performance. You can find more information on Bendigo Bank’s scholarships <a href="https://www.bendigobank.com.au/community/scholarships/">here</a>.
<h4>- Community Bank Scholarships</h4>
<a href="https://www.bendigobank.com.au/community/scholarships/community-bank-scholarships/">Community Bank Scholarships</a> are available to students who reside in or have attended a secondary school in an area where a Community Bank branch is offering a scholarship for bachelor’s degree and TAFE students. The duration of the scholarship and the amount you receive can vary depending on your Community Bank branch but accommodation and study resources are covered.
<h4>- Youthrive Victoria University Scholarships &amp; Helen Macpherson Smith Rural Scholarship</h4>
<a href="https://www.youthrivevictoria.org.au/scholarships/uni-scholarships/">Youthrive Victoria University Scholarships</a> and the <a href="https://www.youthrivevictoria.org.au/scholarships/uni-scholarships/">Helen Macpherson Smith Rural Scholarship</a> is awarded to Victorian rural or regional Year 12 students with leadership qualities and a commitment to a strong, just and sustainable rural and regional Victoria. The scholarships consist of $10,000 payment for three years plus mentoring and leadership development.
<h4>- Institution-Specific Scholarships</h4>
Each higher education institution has financial support services and scholarships available to students with many on offer for those from rural and remote backgrounds. Most university scholarship websites can be filtered to only show you the ones that you are eligible for.
Additionally, many tertiary admissions centres (including <a href="https://www.vtac.edu.au/access.html">VTAC</a> and <a href="https://www.uac.edu.au/future-applicants/scholarships-and-schemes">UAC</a>) automatically consider you for scholarships, taking out much of the hard work researching and applying for scholarships individually. However, it’s still good to take a look at the scholarships offered at your institution of interest.
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You can also find a list of some scholarships offered by institutions other than universities or TAFE providers <a href="https://www.deakin.edu.au/study/fees-and-scholarships/scholarships/external-scholarships">here</a>.
If you’re interested in learning about more niche and lesser-known scholarships, check out <a href="https://app.resn.org.au/wiki/">RESN Wiki</a> where we’ll have even more information on financial support options coming your way.

Here at RESN, we don’t want anyone who wants to go to university to miss out so here’s a brief run-down on the financial aid and scholarships available to students from regional and remote backgrounds to help get you to where you want to go.

Scholarships & Financial Aid for Regional & Remote Students

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The school holidays are here and it's the perfect time to relax after such a busy term. Believe us, you absolutely deserve it. However, this break is also a great opportunity to start the next term prepared for what lies ahead. Here’s how you can do just that:
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<h4>1. Plan and split up your work across the school break.</h4>
If you’ve got a couple assessments or <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/a-week-before-the-exam">exams sneaking up</a> when the term starts but you really want to enjoy your holidays, plan your work out across the break. It can help you feel way <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-stay-on-track-during-stressful-times">more in control</a> and on top of things. Allocate certains times or days that you’ll dedicate to getting your work done, like setting out a couple hours in the morning to <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/exam-prep-101-english-and-the-humanities">work on your essay</a> before heading out with friends. This way you can enjoy your time off stress free without falling behind on any important work!
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<h4>2. Create a study group.</h4>
Working with friends can be a great way to <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-to-do-when-you-lose-motivation">stay motivated</a> and keep up the pace over the break. <a href="https://blogs.deakin.edu.au/deakinlife/2020/04/15/how-to-build-a-successful-online-study-group/">Study groups</a> are fantastic as they help keep you accountable, give you a chance to work on tricky subjects together, and can even make studying fun! (Sounds crazy, we know!) Planning to meet up a couple times over the break online or at the library will definitely <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-cope-with-burnout-and-study-guilt">ease your study guilt</a> and give you a solid chunk of time to focus on your studies.
<h4>3. Start doing practice exam questions about last term’s area of study.</h4>
When you have a bit of time off from school and you’re not being swapped with new content that is the best time to go over <a href="https://app.resn.org.au/wiki/">everything you’ve been learning</a> over the last term. Try out some <a href="https://app.resn.org.au/quizzes/">practise exam questions</a> over the break focusing on last term’s content to test your knowledge. This way, if you’re feeling tripped up by anything, you’ll be able to check in with your teacher straight away before you start having to really focus on the next English text or maths question!
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<h4>4. Make a calendar of your assessments for next term or next semester.</h4>
Organisation is key to managing your time well and more often than not, your teachers or school curriculum will already have planned your assessments in advance. It’s good to organise them on your own separate monthly calendar so that you can know ahead of time which weeks will be busy with assessment and therefore you can <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-prepare-for-year-11-and-12">start preparing for them</a>. If you don’t know when your assessments will be, you can ask your teachers and they should be able to give you a rough timeline and that’s better than nothing, right?
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All in all, don’t forget to relax, indulge in a <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-does-realistic-self-care-look-like">bit of self-care</a> and have a good time during this break especially considering how busy the school year can be. Besides, you can’t do your best if you don’t <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-do-you-know-when-its-time-to-ask-for-help">give yourself some rest</a>. So believe in yourselves like we here at RESN believe in you!

The school holidays are here and it's the perfect time to relax after such a busy term. However, this break is also a great opportunity to start the next term prepared for what lies ahead. Here’s how you can do just that.

How to Stay On Top of Your Studies During the School Holidays

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With all the <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-prepare-for-university">support and resources available</a> to you at university, we understand if you’re anxious about missing out on something important or an opportunity that would have been perfect for you.
That’s why this post will guide you through what university has to offer and how you can make the most of this exciting new stage of your life.
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<h4>1.Find out if you’re eligible for scholarships.</h4>
University is a large financial commitment, especially if you’re <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/moving-out-and-managing-independence">planning to move out</a>. Scholarships are there to help ease the burden on your wallet by covering some of your tuition fees, accommodation costs and more. With <a href="https://www.gooduniversitiesguide.com.au/scholarships">more than 3,000 scholarships available</a> to Australian tertiary students, you are bound to find one that you’re eligible for.
Every Australian university has a dedicated scholarship page on their website where you can filter through results and find the scholarships that apply to you. The government also offers <a href="https://www.dese.gov.au/higher-education/support-students">financial assistance</a> and <a href="https://www.dese.gov.au/higher-education/support-students">support for students</a> depending on various socioeconomic factors to help make university accessible to all.
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<h4>2. Research study abroad opportunities.</h4>
Studying abroad is a great way to travel, develop your cross-cultural communication skills and learn about different cultures; skills that <a href="https://www.gooduniversitiesguide.com.au/education-blogs/student-life/the-benefits-of-student-exchange">look great on your resume</a>. Each university has a range of <a href="https://www.gooduniversitiesguide.com.au/study-information/study-options/study-abroad-and-student-exchange">semester-long and short-term programs</a> available along with <a href="https://www.cisaustralia.com.au/financial-information/government-funding/">financial aid</a> to help make travel accessible to all students.
Many universities have also created virtual study abroad programs for students to learn in an online international setting and collaborate with people from other countries since travel is limited. While it’s not the same as being in-country, it’s definitely a <a href="https://www.goabroad.com/articles/study-abroad/why-virtual-study-abroad">more affordable alternative</a>.
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<h4>3. Seek out your university’s career advisors.</h4>
Each university has a department dedicated to running workshops for students on <a href="https://www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au/jobs-and-careers/applying-for-a-job/what-is-a-cover-letter/how-to-write-a-cover-letter">how to write a cover letter</a>, <a href="https://www.kangan.edu.au/students/blog/successful-networking-tips">networking at professional events</a> and more. They are important skills to have not only after graduation but also during your degree as you look for work.
The career advisors there can also help practice your interview skills, give feedback on your resume and help you <a href="https://gradaustralia.com.au/career-planning/five-steps-to-writing-a-smart-career-plan">develop your career plan</a> so that you know which <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-know-your-future-course-path">direction you want to go</a> in the future as that can <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-stay-on-track-during-stressful-times">help you stay motivated</a> throughout your degree.
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<h4>4. Do an internship - or a few - during your degree.</h4>
Internships are short-term placements where you get to practice using the knowledge and skills you’ve developed in a real work environment which helps you <a href="https://www.studiesinaustralia.com/Blog/study-tips/top-10-reasons-to-do-an-internship#:~:text=Making%20you%20more%20employable%20through,university%20to%20a%20real%20workplace">become more employable</a> after graduation. Completing an internship may already be a requirement or an option for you to do as part of your degree or you can <a href="https://www.thebalancecareers.com/when-to-apply-for-an-internship-2059852#:~:text=Most%20students%20will%20complete%20an,in%20order%20to%20gain%20experience.">choose to do one in your own time</a>.
You can also choose to have your internship sourced by your university or to <a href="https://insiderguides.com.au/find-internships-australia/">source your own internship</a> by applying directly to an organisation. Either way, employers are always <a href="https://this.deakin.edu.au/career/considering-an-internship-read-this-first">looking for graduates with experience</a> and internships are the best way to help you develop that.
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<h4>5. Volunteer and join some clubs or societies.</h4>
There may be a lot to take on board at university but it’s not all about becoming more employable, it’s also creating memories and <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-I-wish-I-knew-when-I-left-school">living life without any regrets</a>. That’s why volunteering at university or joining clubs and societies can be a great way to meet like-minded people, <a href="https://www.uts.edu.au/current-students/news/7-reasons-join-club-or-society">forge lifelong friendships</a> and give back to your community.
The experience you get through volunteering with an organisation -- like <a href="https://app.resn.org.au/register">RESN</a> -- or being in a club or society can be as valuable as <a href="https://www.monash.edu/career-connect/explore/volunteering">any experience you gain during an internship</a>. And with so many groups, events and activities on offer at university, you will find a circle of people you really connect with while also getting closer to finding that dream job.
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The many opportunities on offer at university can be overwhelming and sometimes <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-to-do-if-uni-isnt-for-you">university isn’t for everyone</a> but it’s definitely a chance to try some exciting new things.
Remember to <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-does-realistic-self-care-look-like">take care of yourself</a> and we hope you’re excited to see where university can take you!

With all the support and resources available to you at university, we understand if you’re anxious about missing out on something important or an opportunity that would have been perfect for you. That’s why this post will guide you through what university

How to Maximise the Resources and Opportunities at University

<h5>Moving out and managing independence: our top tips</h5>
So you’re finally done with school after 13 long years and it's’ time to take the next step into your future. After years of (lovingly) nagging parents and repetitive school days, you might be feeling ready to take a leap of faith into a completely new environment and start this next phase somewhere different! Whatever reason your flight from the nest may be and though it’s definitely exciting, it can also be a little intimidating too. Here are some handy tips we’ve pulled together to help you feel a little more ready to take on life independently!
<h5>Step up your organisation</h5>
We all know it can certainly be a challenge at first, but one of the main things to focus on improving when living out of home is your organisation! Whether it be financial, like keeping tabs of your spending, or just staying on top of your schedule, keeping your life organised can help make your transition into independence all the easier.
<a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/blog/living-the-questions/201808/6-reasons-why-you-should-use-daily-planner">Small things like keeping a planner</a> to remind you of daily tasks or to note down spending can be a super effective and helpful way to ensure that you don’t end up having to call your mum in a total panic (though we can all admit that's a right of passage!)
<h5>Look into financial aid</h5>
If you’re looking to attend university away from home, there are <a href="https://www.gooduniversitiesguide.com.au/study-information/student-life/student-accommodation">tonnes of options out the surrounding student accommodation.</a> These various accommodations come at a range of different prices, with many offering bursaries and scholarships should you need them! The government also offers relocation scholarships which are perfect from students coming from rural areas. <a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/relocation-scholarship/how-get-it#a2">Read into it here to get some more info</a> if this sounds like something you could be interested in.
<h5>Find your routine</h5>
Establishing a good routine is the best way to get you feeling settled and secure in a new place and truly in control of your daunting newfound independence. We at RESN have <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-prepare-for-university">a bunch of tips to get you feeling ready and on top of your game when starting uni.</a>
When heading to a new place, especially for uni, it can feel a little stressful thinking about getting a job on top of your academic workload and just the general intensity of being in a new place. However, <a href="https://www.murdochinstitute.wa.edu.au/blog/student-support/the-10-best-jobs-for-uni-students/">there are lots of super chill and flexible roles you can take on if you need.</a> Finding a job can also be a great way to meet more people from the new place you’re in!
<h5>Thinking of heading home?</h5>
Do you see yourself missing home cooked meals and wanting to head back every other weekend? In that case, it’s good to consider travel times and costs to make sure you're not suddenly desperate to pop home and find it’ll cost you a month's pay! Explore the university options around you and make sure to look into the distance from home…just in case you need a break from eating 2-minute noodles!
<h5>Have fun!</h5>
Breaking away from the familiarity of home life and setting out on your own can be both incredibly exciting…and a little terrifying! These first few years out of high school are some of the best of your life, so make the most of it! Hopefully with these few handy tips from us over at RESN, you’ll be feeling a little more prepared for this next step. Good luck!

Whatever reason your flight from the nest may be, and though it’s definitely exciting, it can also be a little intimidating too. Here are some handy tips we’ve pulled together to help you feel a little more ready to take on life independently!

Moving out and managing independence: our top tips

The Summer holidays are slowly coming to an end and what had seemed to be a million years away is right around the corner: university! For some, this is an exciting time of change and taking that next step towards a career; while for others, this next big step evokes feelings that would rather see you curled up under the covers dreading what is to come (cue foetus position).
Fortunately, us here at RESN have been there (both excited and in foetus position) and we pulled together 5 handy tips to help you feel more prepared for the year ahead!
<h4>1. Get familiar with what you’ll be learning in each of your subjects</h4>
Each subject will have a guide that outlines an overview of what the subject is about, the learning outcomes that will be achieved by the end of the semester, the workload requirements and even the assessments that you will have to undertake.
Getting familiar with these guides before classes begin will help you feel more prepared and confident for the semester ahead. Check out your university portal for this info and don’t be afraid to chuck your professor an email if you have any questions.
<h4>2. Plan your commute</h4>
Whether you’re fortunate enough to live close to your uni campus or not, we highly recommend planning your commute before your first day. There is nothing more stressful than not knowing how to get there, and having your whole class stare at you when you walk in 20 minutes late (trust me, it’s the WORST). If you plan to drive, keep in mind potential traffic hold-ups and the most reliable parking spaces; if you cycle, learn where the closest bike lock up is; and if you’re catching PT, keep in mind <a href="https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/journey">alternative routes</a> in case those inevitable delays hold you up when you’re supposed to be giving an oral presentation at 9:30am!
And don’t forget to get your <a href="https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/tickets/myki/concessions-and-free-travel/children-and-students/tertiary-students/">tertiary ID</a> and take advantage of that concession fare!
<h4>3. Attend O’Week Activities</h4>
Free food anyone?! Orientation Week (aka O’Week) gives you a taste of uni life before classes formally begin. It’s a great opportunity to explore the campus, find your classes and meet new people, especially if you’re the only one from high school attending your chosen uni. One of the best ways to do this is to <a href="https://wearehomesforstudents.com/blog/student-living/join-society-university">join a club or society</a>! Whether it be a sports club like soccer, or something more social like a boardgames society, there is bound to be something that sparks your interest where you can get involved and meet other like-minded people.
From barbeques to pub crawls, to campus tours and information sessions, O’Week has all the events to get you excited and prepared for the year ahead! (But seriously, if not for the clubs, go for the food).
<h4>4. Set a routine</h4>
Now I’m sure you’re tired of hearing your teachers say that <a href="https://year13.com.au/articles/differences-uni-high-school">uni isn’t like high school</a>, but they’re right, it isn’t. There is no longer the everyday routine that school provides, and instead, it is up to you to be organised and ensure your maintaining the ever so important <a href="https://www.thebalancecareers.com/creating-work-life-balance-for-college-students-1986743">work-life balance</a>. Finding a balance between your studies, work, exercise and social activities can be a struggle, but the earlier you do it the easier it will be to prevent missed deadlines and eventual <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-cope-with-burnout-and-study-guilt">burnout</a>. Get a diary or <a href="https://www.shopify.com.au/blog/time-management-apps">download an app</a> to stay on top of your activities, and above all else, don’t underestimate the <a href="https://aasm.org/college-students-getting-enough-sleep-is-vital-to-academic-success/">power of a good night’s sleep</a>!
<h4>5. Download helpful resources</h4>
When all else fails, technology comes to the rescue! When finding classes begins to feel like you’re trapped in a maze, <a href="https://studentvip.com.au/lost-on-campus">Lost On Campus</a> will be your best friend. <a href="https://studentvip.com.au/">Student VIP</a> is also another great resource to find second-hand textbooks, or even help connect you to a tutor for those subjects where you need the extra support. Whatever the issue is, there are plenty of <a href="https://www.gooduniversitiesguide.com.au/education-blogs/student-life/ten-great-apps-for-uni-students">apps and resources</a> out there to help make your transition to university that little bit easier.
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It’s okay if you are feeling overwhelmed, but hopefully with these tips from us at RESN you’re now feeling more prepared and excited to begin the next step in what will be some of the best years ahead!

We at RESN know that the transition to university can be overwhelming, and so we have pulled together 5 handy tips to help you feel more prepared for the year ahead!

How to Prepare for University

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This is it! The final stretch of high school and arguably the most daunting part yet: Year 11 and 12. It is important for you to be well prepared and organised to ensure that you continue this year with the same momentum. Here are some suggestions from us at RESN to help you start on the right foot:
<h4>1. Familiarise yourself with your subjects’ syllabus/study design.</h4>
Think of these as your survival guide for Year 11 and 12. They will tell you every skill and piece of knowledge that you need to triumph over your assessments and exams. If you ever feel lost throughout the year, return to your <a href="https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/curriculum/vce/vce-study-designs/Pages/vce-study-designs.aspx">VCE</a> study design, <a href="https://educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/nesa/11-12/Understanding-the-curriculum/syllabuses-a-z">HSC</a> or <a href="https://www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/senior-subjects">QCE</a> syllabus and rest assured that all you need to know is in there.
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<h4>2. Discover the best note-taking method for you.</h4>
Your time and energy are precious so try to make your notes presentable and practical, not just pretty. Write down in full thoughts but remember that you can simplify them, draw pictures and diagrams, or <a href="https://7esl.com/abbreviations-for-note-taking/">develop abbreviations and symbols</a> if you think that’ll help you learn. Your note-taking strategy might change for each subject so try experimenting with <a href="https://www.oxfordlearning.com/5-effective-note-taking-methods/">different methods</a>, like ones that are good for understanding the relationships between concepts or ones that create easy review questions for later.
<h4>3. Find how you best memorise and learn.</h4>
Repetition and <a href="https://www.improvememory.org/blog-posts/how-to-improve-memory/memorization-techniques/the-rote-learning-method-what-you-need-to-know/">rote learning</a> may help some people but <a href="http://faculty.bucks.edu/specpop/mnemonics.htm">creating mnemonics</a> and using <a href="https://creately.com/blog/education/visual-note-taking/">visual aids</a> might help that new information sink in better. Try experimenting with a few memorisation techniques and, if you can, study in a <a href="https://practicalpie.com/state-dependent-memory/">similar time, state and place</a> as you would be when you take your exam since studies have shown it helps to <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/state-dependent-learning">retrieve information more efficiently</a>.
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<h4>4. Create a daily and weekly routine.</h4>
Block out the times in the week that cannot be avoided, including any work, training and, of course, any classes. Then try to divide each day into <a href="https://todoist.com/productivity-methods/time-blocking">time blocks</a>, like dedicating half an hour to doing a similar task, such as reviewing your revision flash cards or challenging yourself to write a practice essay, and when you complete that task, <a href="https://francescocirillo.com/pages/pomodoro-technique">give yourself a small reward</a>. Make sure you check out our <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog">RESN blog posts</a> on maintaining self care, and always try to block out a time to <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-does-realistic-self-care-look-like">relax and unwind</a> too!
<h4>5. Make use of past examinations.</h4>
I hate to break it to you, but the best way to prepare for exams is to do practice exams. The <a href="https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/assessment/vce-assessment/past-examinations/Pages/Index.aspx">VCAA</a>, <a href="https://educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/nesa/11-12/resources/hsc-exam-papers">ESA</a> and <a href="https://www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/see/subject-resources">QCAA</a> all have a large collection of past exams for every subject and can be used to test your knowledge on different areas of study especially under timed conditions but doing practice exams can’t solve everything though, make a note on areas of improvement and review any content that relates to the questions you got wrong, but regardless of how it might seem, exams are your friend.
<h4>6. Be proactive and ask questions.</h4>
There are no silly questions in the world of learning. Being proactive and asking questions show you want to engage with the content and address any areas of improvement. Your teachers are there to support you and so are our <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/team">high-achieving RESN tutors</a> who can answer your questions on <a href="https://app.resn.org.au/help/">RESN Help</a>. Ask them any question ranging from English essays and math questions to study tips and tertiary study, and they will be sure to answer it within 24 hours.
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<h4>7. Set long term goals.</h4>
A way to remind yourself about what all this preparation and study is for is to have your long term goals listed near where you study as a source of motivation when studying gets tough. If you don’t have a long term goal in mind, try and consider what your ‘<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/chrismyers/2018/02/23/how-to-find-your-ikigai-and-transform-your-outlook-on-life-and-business/?sh=542d26e02ed4">ikigai</a>’ or “life’s purpose” is. Your ‘ikigai’ is the crossroad of what you love to do, what you are good at, what you can be paid for and what the world needs. Once you have listed a few ideas - and it is allowed to change over time - write it down, keep it safe and use it as motivation to get you through the year.
It’s okay to feel like you’re not ready to tackle the year ahead, but with some preparation and dedication, you’ve got 2021 covered.
By Xenia Sanut

It is important for you to be well prepared and organised to ensure that you continue this year with the same momentum. Here are some suggestions from us at RESN to help you start on the right foot.

How to Prepare for Year 11 & 12

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In the months that follow the end of school (and the novelty of your newfound freedom starts to wear off) a lot of us find ourselves in uncharted territory, wondering anxiously about what to do next. Is Uni the right choice? Should you take a gap year? Maybe it’s time to find a job! Us here at RESN are totally familiar with that post-school anxiety, when deciding what move to make is more confusing that any Year 12 exam and can leave you feeling super overwhelmed.
In figuring out what’s right for you, hearing well-informed advice and opinions from people who’ve explored a range of different pathways can make all the difference. So, to help you out, we’ve gathered some first-hand testimonials to give you some handy insight into what some school-leavers wish they’d known when kicking off the next chapter of their life.
Mynah, 20, had some really interesting reflections on the pressure and anxiety she felt after leaving school, remarking that “When I graduated high school, the adult world and my future seemed to be on an uncertain trajectory. I didn’t have an exact career in mind and choosing a degree or pathway toward an unknown goal was a daunting weight on my shoulders. I look back on those anxious moments and wish I had spared myself the worry because life does not have to operate on a rigid or conventional timeline. To this day, I cannot say I know exactly who I want to be and how to get there, I am not sure many can, but trying to get there has resulted in some of the most unexpectedly enriching moments of my life.
Kristopher, 20, advises “You don’t need to rush into everything. It may feel like life is coming at you fast and you need to make all these important choices now and stick by them forever, but you don’t. You’ve got time, use it how you want.”
Commenting on the value of taking a gap year, Alisha, 21, says – “Don’t feel obligated to go down a certain path, just make sure that you follow what you are passionate about and motivated by and you’ll never regret your decision. Taking a gap year was great for me, as it gave me the time to really figure out my interests and what I wanted to do next.&quot;
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For those of your considering heading off to uni in the coming months, here are some handy tips for first years to help you land on your feet:
Cate, 21, who is currently completing a Bachelor of Business at UTS, gives some helpful tips for any nervous first years - “If you’re choosing to go to university, make sure that you keep up a routine for yourself to manage your workload. Getting involved in the social world of a new university is super exciting, but make sure not to slack off in your first year, as this is the best time to get a feel for your courses and keep your GPA high!”
Own of our very own from the RESN team, Seerat, 21, who is studying Law and Commerce at Monash, emphasised the value of staying open to change - “What you think you want to do may not necessarily end up being what you enjoy. Keep an open mind to other avenues so that you’re not disappointed or disheartened when what you thought you wanted didn’t end up being all that. Things not working out according to plan may just be a blessing in disguise.”
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Hearing the thoughts of people on what they’d tell their younger selves gives us an awesome opportunity to learn through their experiences and take their advice on board, hopefully easing some of your anxiety for this next chapter. We’ve also got some other fab and informative posts on our blog for even more info about things like <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-know-your-future-course-path">choosing courses</a> and <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-to-do-if-uni-isnt-for-you">what to do if uni isn’t for you</a>. Whatever it is you choose to do, we here at RESN wish you the best of luck and are sure no matter what it is…you'll smash it!

Us at RESN know that making your next move after high school can feel incredible daunting. We've gathered some handy advice from school leavers about what they wish they'd known when they left school to prepare you for this exciting new chapter of life!

What I Wish I Knew When I Left School

So you’ve finally finished year 12...you’re exhausted and looking forward to a well-deserved break before you have to worry about what you’re going to do next year.
A lot of the dialogue surrounding post-school options focuses on university, but in reality, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/women-in-leadership/2016/feb/01/i-chose-not-to-go-to-university-it-was-the-best-career-decision-i-ever-made">lots of people feel that path isn’t the right one.</a> Maybe you can’t imagine spending another chunk of your life studying or would rather getting started in the workforce ASAP - either way, we know the feeling!
We at RESN know that a whole bunch of school leavers are looking for options elsewhere outside of uni, and there are tonnes out there to explore. Here are a couple options, other than university, to get you thinking about your future after high school!
<h4>Apprenticeships</h4>
Completing an apprenticeship in the years after school can be a fantastic option. It can get you into your chosen career with a super hands-on approach, learning everything on the job.
Being able to earn money while you learn is a great bonus as you get involved in your chosen industry. <a href="https://accessrt.edu.au/10-reasons-why-an-apprenticeship-is-better-than-a-degree/">In the long run, doing an apprenticeship can be heaps more cost effective than uni too, which is why a lot of people are opting for this option instead.</a>
<a href="https://www.aapathways.com.au/job-hunting/finding-jobs">There are heaps of online resources to get you going and into a career that you love</a> , so enjoy exploring all the different apprenticeships out there!
<h4>Short Courses</h4>
If you don’t feel ready to commit to a three or four-year degree at uni, opting for a short course might be the way for you! It will give you a taste of an exciting career or let you explore a hobby that you’re interested in pursuing further.
<a href="https://www.nationaltraining.edu.au/people-choosing-short-courses-degrees/">Short courses are super flexible, enabling you to do them at your own pace and even online if getting to campus is a bit of a struggle.</a>
<a href="https://www.tafensw.edu.au/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAzsz-BRCCARIsANotFgN93y9Z8ufXvbL49WHr73UxbSj4om2GWSu-ERR60wkvOIXHoYuW5KMaAkCJEALw_wcB&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds">TAFE</a> courses are largely inexpensive options that have a huge range of courses you can try out to find out what you like. They’re also a great way to gain experience and contacts to get you set up for your future!
<h4>Straight into the Workforce</h4>
After leaving school, you might be itching to get into the workforce as soon as possible.
There are tonnes of <a href="https://www.thebalancecareers.com/what-is-an-entry-level-job-1918126">entry level jobs out there that require minimal experience</a> and getting into the industry as soon as you can be a fantastic option, helping you to advance quicker whilst earning money.
<a href="(https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/education-vs-experience/)">A good portion of employers actually prefer practical and relevant experience over university degrees</a>, so getting out into the workforce sooner rather than later can really pay off and kickstart your career.
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<h4>Time Off</h4>
Sometimes when you’re finding it hard to decide what your next step should be, taking a proper break can be a great way to reset.
Gap years are becoming more and more popular as they give us the time to explore and travel whilst gaining invaluable perspective and experience. <a href="https://www.topuniversities.com/blog/reasons-you-should-take-gap-year-going-university">Thousands of school leavers testify to the value of taking a proper break before launching into their future.</a>
Whether you spend a couple months working in a fun part-time job before jetting off somewhere amazing or choose to work somewhere totally out of your comfort zone, like a new city or country, a gap year can be exactly what you need if you’re feeling unsure of what to do next.
Obviously, the recent pandemic has changed a few things in terms of travelling, but don’t forget about all that Australia has to offer!
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Knowing what path to take after school can be really daunting, with so many great options out there making it hard to choose.
Whether you opt for university or something a little more off the beaten track, we at RESN are sure that you’ll be successful in whatever you decide.
Don’t hesitate to submit a question to us about university, gap years, or other options - we’ve always got someone on the team who’s done it!
Don’t forget - everyone is on their own timeline, and the important thing is finding a path that you’re passionate about. Good luck!

We at RESN know that a whole bunch of school leavers are looking for options elsewhere outside of uni, and there are tonnes out there to explore. Here are a couple options, other than university, to get you thinking about your future after high school!

What to Do if Uni isn't for You

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Most of you have reached the end of your exams. A massive congratulations to you all! What a year it’s been, and you’re finally beginning your well-deserved break after so many years of schooling.
That being said, there’s the question of <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-comes-next-how-to-decide-what-course-best-suits-you">what’s next</a>. There has already been talk of it earlier in the year and you may be feeling sure of your next step or completely lost.
This is the topic of course preferences. If you’re keen on undertaking a university or college course but have no idea what to choose, what’s suited for you, job prospects and other questions, we’ll run you through it!
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<h4>1. Identify your long term career goals.</h4>
This may sound confusing and vague, but it’s more straightforward than it sounds. Simply, ask yourself:
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“What do I want out of a long-term job?”
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Is it to do something you love or are passionate about? Something to pay the bills? A career that challenges you intellectually? Or has good job prospects? Locate what it is you’re <a href="https://careerwise.minnstate.edu/mymncareers/english-learner/long-term-goal.html">seeking</a> as your first step to choosing your ideal course.
<h4>2. Picture your ideal future timeline.</h4>
We’re not talking about deciding where to live, when to buy a house, “settle down” or anything specific. This can just be asking yourself some of the following questions.
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“Do I want to get a job immediately or <a href="https://year13.com.au/articles/find-yourself-when-travel?next=find-yourself-when-travel">take my time</a>?”
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This may help you narrow down the types of degrees you may be interested in. For those who are keen to get right into it, career specific courses like teaching, nursing and engineering are more suited. However, if you are unsure and want to explore your interests at university/college, general degrees like arts and science are perfect for researching your options and potential career paths.
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“Does the length of my degree matter to me?”
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Some degrees take longer to finish than others. Some are degrees that branch into other ones. Some are quick and straightforward. Depending on if the duration of your degree matters to you is something else you can factor into your <a href="https://www.seek.com.au/learning/studying/finding-the-right-course/choosing-the-right-course-for-your-lifestyle">decision</a>.
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<h4>3. Choose what YOU want to do.</h4>
It doesn’t matter what your reason is for choosing a course. It could be personal interest, financial reasons or other factors. But it’s important to make sure what you decide to choose is your decision, not what your family, friends or others want.
<a href="https://au.reachout.com/articles/how-to-deal-with-parentscarers-expectations">Parental pressure</a> especially is tricky to tackle when it comes to your future career. Whilst it can feel like the people around you have power and influence over your future, ultimately this is your life. What will let you achieve long-term happiness is following <a href="https://inspiredbyhilde.com/be-in-charge-of-your-life/">your own path</a>, not a path that someone else has set out for you.
And if you don’t know what you want your path to look like, branch out and find what interests you!
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These are some tips to get you started when it comes to deciding your future course. Whilst this decision carries importance, remember it's not the be-all end-all. Life is never a linear journey and so many people switch courses, drop out, or change their life trajectory. Remember to go at <a href="https://medium.com/live-your-life-on-purpose/how-to-go-at-your-own-pace-and-not-lose-stillness-e357e40c4f3b">your own pace</a> and do what feels right for you.
Good luck!
By Catherine Le

A massive congratulations to you all! What a year it’s been, and you’re most likely finally beginning your well-deserved break. That being said, there’s the question of what’s next. We'll guide you through it!

How to Know Your Future Course Path?

To my future ATAR,
I know we’ll meet soon, and I won’t lie, I’ve never been more nervous.
We hear it all the time. <a href="https://artofsmart.com.au/low-atar/">‘Your ATAR doesn’t define you’</a>. But at the end of the day, you’ll be the number that sums up my entire school-life.
The hours spent sitting in stuffy classrooms. The years of lunchtime games and gossip. The good teachers and the not so good ones. And lately, the study, the practice exams, the afternoons spent in the library, the friendships, the tears, the memories… How do you wrap all of that up into one number?
It’s easy to say that you, my future ATAR, won’t define me. But the scary thing is you’ll dictate a lot of what’s possible for me in the future.
You’ll decide whether I get into the <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-comes-next-how-to-decide-what-course-best-suits-you">course I want</a> next year. You’ll decide whether I get that <a href="https://www.education.gov.au/rural-and-regional-enterprise-scholarships-program">scholarship</a> I applied for.
It’s hard not to feel anxious.
What if you aren’t high enough? What if all my friends get higher ATARs? What if I’m just not cut-out for academic success?
The truth is you won’t ever define me or my <a href="https://year13.com.au/articles/high-school-wont-best-years-life">school years</a>. There’s no way you can punch in each of my school experiences and calculate a total.
School has taught me way more than just curriculum content, and no number can take that away from me.
In the end, I just hope you reflect all the hard work I put into Year 12. And if not, I know there will always be other options for me. Courses offered at uni's with lower entry-scores, careers that <a href="https://year13.com.au/articles/careers-without-atar">don’t require ATARs at all</a>.
My future holds way more than an ATAR could ever calculate.
But for now, I’ll sit and wait patiently. I know I’ve tried my best. I know I’ve worked hard. Either way, I’ll be proud of myself and what I’ve achieved.
See you soon, Your student.
Words by Ella Katz

To my future ATAR...

I know we’ll meet soon, and I won’t lie, I’ve never been more nervous.

A Letter to My Future ATAR...

What To Do When You Lose Motivation
You’ve fallen into an endless pit of flashcards, practice exams and late-night coffees, and you simply want it all to stop! The year is nearly over, but you just can’t find it in you to read another line of Shakespeare or do one more trigonometry question. If you’re feeling this way, we can guarantee that you’re not alone.
At <a href="https://www.resn.org.au">RESN</a>, we understand that while we start Year 12 all bright eyed and bushy tailed, it’s easy to lose that motivation. Here are our top five tricks, tried and tested to get you back on track and across the finish line!
Shake Things Up
We all know that studying for literally hours a day can quickly become extremely monotonous and boring, making it difficult to stay <a href="https://chloeburroughs.com/stay-motivated/">on track and motivated</a> for your upcoming exams. One of the best things you can do when you feel that boredom creeping in is to hit the refresh button and shake things up.
If you’re in the habit of studying in the morning, try out working more in the evening, and vice versa – there are heaps of <a href="https://junkee.com/whats-best-time-day-study/155113">great benefits to studying at both times of day.</a>
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Trying out a new study technique can also be a great way to freshen up your routine. Take <a href="https://www.themuse.com/advice/take-it-from-someone-who-hates-productivity-hacksthe-pomodoro-technique-actually-works">The Pomodoro Technique</a> for example, where you study in bursts with small breaks between. This might be what you need to keep study feeling manageable and rewarding, rather than dull and overwhelming.
Trying a new study space can also be a fantastic way to restore lost motivation and get back into studying. Consider taking a trip to a different library in your area (if they’re open), find a shady spot under a tree, or even work at the kitchen table instead of your bedroom.
These simple changes can give you a totally new outlook and drive; being in a new environment has actually been <a href="https://careerbuzz.prosky.co/articles/how-a-change-in-environment-can-benefit-your-productivity">proven to enhance your studying capabilities.</a>
Take a break
We know that taking a break during exam season can feel truly criminal, but it’s often exactly what you need to feel refreshed and spark up that waning motivation.
Be kind to yourself and give yourself time to relax and recharge; it’s the best way to <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-cope-with-burnout-and-study-guilt">avoid exam burnout.</a> Whether it’s a five minute break to <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-take-a-break-but-not-procrastinate">grab a snack or meditate to get you back in the zone</a> or a whole episode of your favourite show, allow yourself the time for enjoyment, and your study will feel a whole lot less overwhelming.
Think about what’s holding you back
When you’re lacking in motivation, sometimes it can help to actually think and identify what exactly it is that’s holding you back.
Is there a certain section of content that you’re struggling to understand and just want to avoid? A certain Maths formula or English theme that you just can’t seem to get into? <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-type-of-procrastinator-are-you-and-what-to-do-about-it-">Why are you procrastinating?</a>
Once you identify these problems and address them, through speaking to your teachers or asking help from a handy <a href="https://app.resn.org.au/register">RESN tutor</a> you’ll be back into the swing of things in no time.
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Break down your workload
After figuring out what you need to address and work on in preparing for your exams, breaking down your workload can really help to keep you working hard in the final weeks.
Try breaking down the <a href="https://studyskillstips.wordpress.com/2011/11/21/the-study-schedule-that-saved-my-sanity/">content of your subjects</a> into sections and focusing on each of those in distinct study periods, rather than trying to cover everything at once.
Spend a day focusing on one text, a single area of science or one kind of problem in maths. That way, what may feel like a mountain of study becomes much more manageable and easier to get through, keeping you motivated.
Remind yourself what your studying for
One of the best ways to keep yourself driven and focused throughout your exam period is to remember <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/why-do-you-study">why you’re studying</a>. Having visual cues in your space, for example, above your desk, will keep you focussed and motivated.
Maybe it’s your goal final score, pictures of your dream university or even just the feeling of freedom you’ll have when all of this is done. Making something like a <a href="https://www.breatheandreboot.com/how-to-create-a-vision-board-to-reach-your-goals/">vision board</a> can sound silly, but it’s the perfect way to remind yourself of why you’re working so hard!
Maintaining motivation in Year 12 is a tricky feat, given it’s likely the most intense year you’ll have experienced. But don’t feel disheartened, and give these tricks a crack. We have faith that they’ll help you to keep achieving your best right up until the end. Only a few more weeks to go!
Happy studying, and good luck!
Words by Lucy Waterson

While we start Year 12 all bright eyed and bushy tailed, it’s easy to lose that motivation, even when the end is in sight. Here are our top five tricks, tried and tested to get you back on track and across the finish line!

What To Do When You Lose Motivation

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It’s officially go-time! By now, you’ve already started your exams, or are anxiously awaiting them in the weeks to come. Or maybe you have no idea what to revise and how to even get motivated to revise - you’re starting to burn out!
If you fit in the final category, don’t beat yourself up - it’s okay. We are super proud of you for making it through this year and want to remind you that you’ve done amazing!
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<a href="https://au.reachout.com/articles/burnout-and-chronic-stress">Burnout</a> can happen to even the best of us. That drive to excel and achieve a certain score for your subjects? To get a grade that will guarantee you a place in your dream course? No matter what your motivation or performance levels were, burnout can make it really hard to get back on track to that same level of drive.
So, how do you overcome it? Here are a few tips to get you <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-stay-on-track-during-stressful-times">starting the pedals</a> again!
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<h4>1. Disconnect</h4>
As important as your final exams are, balance is the key to wellbeing and keeping motivated. The exam period is hectic, to say the least. Stress levels are at an all-time high, as you revise your subjects for hours, cram in practice exams and frantically contact teachers and tutors for help. It’s easy to neglect basic needs like sleeping!
So we ask you one thing - stop. It might sound crazy to consider taking any breaks when your exam is in a few days. And yes, <a href="https://www.onlineschools.org/science-of-study-breaks/">breaks</a> can sometimes interrupt your study flow and feel like a waste of time.
But try shutting your laptop or leaving your study area. Take a quick break to grab some water, a snack, or take 20 minutes to walk around your neighbourhood for some air. It doesn’t matter what you do, or how long your break is, but disconnecting your brain from studying for a brief moment by <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-does-realistic-self-care-look-like">taking care of yourself</a> makes a world of difference.
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<h4>2. Set simple goals</h4>
The most important thing is to <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/blog/the-chronicles-infertility/201810/pacing-yourself-the-long-run">pace yourself</a>. If you’re experiencing burnout, you may simply be setting yourself unrealistic or overly ambitious goals. We’ve all been there! But having goals like:
<blockquote>
“I’m going to do 15+ practice exams for all my subjects, finish all my exams early, get my first preference uni course and get at least a final score above 95+.”
</blockquote>
Nothing is wrong with these goals! But it is important to know your limits. Recognise whether these goals are <a href="https://science.howstuffworks.com/life/inside-the-mind/emotions/happy-with-yourself2.htm">attainable</a> with your current grades and time remaining. And if they aren’t, do yourself a favour and lessen the burden on yourself to attain goals you set at the start of the year.
You will only be setting yourself up for disappointment by trying to achieve them. Instead, revise your goals and <a href="https://www.mindtools.com/pages/main/newMN_STR.htm">set smaller milestones for yourself</a>. It can be lowering your desired final score, or simply revising a single concept.
It is 100% okay to change your goals and expectations throughout your final year. Remember, this does not make you a <a href="https://hackspirit.com/15-signs-well-life-even-dont-think/">failure</a> in any way. Doing the best you can is what you should be really proud of!
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<h4>3. Take in the bigger picture</h4>
You might have heard your teachers say: <a href="https://www.chenpr.com/marathon-not-sprint/">“Year 12 is not a race, but a marathon.”</a> At this rate, hearing this might sound like listening to a broken record. But there is definite truth in this statement.
Exam period a rush to the finish line, squeezing in your final practice exams, essays, revision notes - all that jazz. It’s terrifying to feel like your entire high school performance relies solely on these final weeks, your future is dictated by how well you do in a 2-3 hour exam.
But take a step back and remind yourself of how far you’ve come. You’ve overcome all the hard yards, assessments and tests throughout this year. Whilst it can feel like everything weighs on these last few exams, we promise you that it doesn’t.
The reality is that year 12 is not the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2020/oct/20/spare-a-thought-for-year-12-students-around-australia-2020-has-been-tough">be-all end-all</a>. Once you get out into the world, you’ll realise there are so many opportunities, paths and directions you can take with your future. In the grand scheme of things,<a href="https://year13.com.au/articles/life-after-year-12"> year 12 is merely one chapter in your life</a>. Not only year 12 is a marathon, but so is life in general!
So if you’re sitting at home, stressed out and feeling guilty for not studying enough, know that you will have so many <a href="https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/choosing-starting-school/leaving-high-school/after-high-school-different-paths-to-success">chances</a> to explore and fulfil your future career.
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<hr>
Don’t forget, it’s okay to feel a bit burnt out at this stage. Just remember that the finish line is in site! We hope these tips have helped you in managing your study guilt and loss of motivation. Feel free to reach out to us at <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Help</a> and <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Wiki</a> if you’re feeling lost with revision, or for exam tips and advice.
Make sure to reach out to friends, family or mental health professionals such as <a href="https://kidshelpline.com.au/">Kids Helpline</a> and <a href="https://www.beyondblue.org.au/">Beyond Blue</a> for extra support. At RESN, we’re all here for you and are cheering you on for your final run to the finish line!
You’ve got this!
By Catherine Le

It's no brainer - burnout sucks. We'll get you back on track with our top tips, to help you power through your final exams!

How to Cope With Burnout and Study Guilt

Exam Prep 101: English and The Humanities
As the final exam season quickly approaches, the sheer volume of content you’ve learned over the last year can seem incredibly daunting. Whether it’s a 400-page novel you still haven’t read, the chronology of the Russian revolution or 50 pieces of legal legislation, there’s always a lot to remember.
With the right study techniques, you’ll be on your way to smashing those exams. Here are some tips that will hopefully make the <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/a-week-before-the-exam">lead up to your exams</a> a little less intimidating!
Tip 1: Know your texts inside out
Most humanities subjects rely upon a key selection of texts and source materials, like plays for drama, novels for English and paintings for Visual Arts.
While some of us won’t have read all your texts cover-to-cover(although it is definitely recommended), the best way to ensure exam success is by knowing them inside out. Your text is your holy grail…think about it – any question you get has to come from the texts you’ve studied, so knowing them well covers all your bases.
Brush up on any sections you’re still a little confused about and don’t be afraid to ask <a href="https://www.resn.org.au">us</a> for clarification. It’s what we’re there for!
Tip 2: Organise your quotes and evidence
There’s no way to escape having to memorise quotes to back-up your analysis (sorry to burst your bubble). An essay question in the exam can never stray too far from the themes you’ve learnt in class, so make sure you have evidence to back up any of your analysis.
There’s no need to remember every single word of your text – a good handful of versatile quotes that can be used across themes will do the trick. You’re better off remembering a couple quotes that’ll work in answering any question than <a href="https://www.oxfordlearning.com/difference-rote-learning-meaningful-learning/">rote learning</a> whole essays!
Your teachers will no doubt look at your texts most central themes and go through any key sections that explore them. Top tip: create a table with three columns; one for your quotes, a brief analysis and what themes it could apply into – these make easy to read notes to flick through when revising content and help the quotes to stick in your mind.
Tip 3: Create timelines and flashcards
If you’re a visual learner like many of us are, using visual tools can be a great way to enhance your study. For subjects like History and Legal studies, it is super important to remember the timeline of events, whether that’s the lead up to the Irish Civil War or reforms made to the Crimes Act!
<a href="https://study.com/academy/lesson/how-to-make-a-timeline.html">Map out a timeline</a> with any key elements or dates that you need to remember - print it out and stick it up all around your house – the toilet door, your mirror, the fridge. That way, the image of your timeline will be burned into your mind!
<a href="https://www.petersons.com/blog/why-flashcards-work/">Flashcards</a> are another super useful study tool and an awesome way to quiz yourself in the lead up to exams. Pop on any key terms, questions, themes or people that you need to remember. On the other side, write down your answers – whether that be theses, dates or descriptions.
That way, you can test your knowledge, and have the answer right at your fingertips when you get stuck!
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Tip 4: Do timed practice exams
In the <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/a-month-before-the-exam">lead up to the exam</a>, one of the best things you can do is practice responding to essay questions in a timed scenario. Typing up essays on your laptop is one thing but writing out what is often more than 1000 words on paper in a whole different ball game.
Use past papers and practice essay questions from class, lock yourself in your room and try to complete the question in the recommended amount of time – this will help you figure out how long your essay writing currently takes you and work towards refining your writing.
This is also a great way to put your quotes to the test – figure out which ones are working great across a range of practice essay questions and weed out and replace the ones that don’t seem to be all that useful.
Tip 5: Make use of online resources.
We all like to make fun of <a href="https://www.sparknotes.com">SparkNotes</a> and <a href="https://www.shmoop.com">Shmoop</a>, but they can honestly be lifesavers when you’re in a pinch. They break down the info from tonnes of texts –themes, characters analysis and important quotes. Although it’s probably not the best idea to depend on them completely, they definitely make for an excellent study support. Our <a href="https://app.resn.org.au/wiki/">RESN Wiki</a> and <a href="https://app.resn.org.au/quizzes/">Quizzes</a> will also be a massive help to perfect your exam prep.
Also, don’t be afraid to venture into the world of academia. Articles and essays on sites like <a href="https://www.jstor.org">JStor</a> and <a href="https://scholar.google.com">Google Scholar</a> can introduce to themes and ideas that you might have never come across. They’re also great things to mention in writing for subjects like English Extension that require a bit more of a wider analysis.
We know what a stressful and crazy year it’s been. Even though it might feel like all you should be doing is study, it’s also crucial that you take a break when you feel you need it and <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/self-care-september-is-here">look after yourself!</a>.
No matter what happens, you have so much to be proud of already. <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-study-smarter-not-harder-in-3-easy-steps">Study hard</a>, try your best, and everything else will fall into place. Good luck!
Words by Lucy Waterson

As exam season approaches the sheer amount of content can seem daunting...here are a few handy tips to make studying for your exams a little less intimidating.

Exam Prep 101: English and The Humanities

It’s a week before your exam. Nerves are probably high, as is stress. But regardless of whether you’re on your 28th practice exam, or your third consecutive season of The Office, we’ve got you! Here are our top tips for nailing your exam, no matter where you’re up to now.
Last-Minute Study Tips
While we definitely don’t endorse leaving all your revision to the night before your exam, there’s no reason why you can’t make the most of the week leading-up to your exam. Here’s how.
Focus on <a href="https://aliabdaal.com/activerecallstudytechnique/">active recall</a>. Instead of skimming over huge amounts of content, aim to retain and recall information.
You won’t have access to your notes during your exam (and even if it’s open-book, chances are that you won’t have the time to rely on them), so make sure your revision mirrors that.
One proven way to work on your active recall is doing <a href="https://www.questionmark.com/evidence-from-medical-education-that-quizzes-do-slow-the-forgetting-curve/">practice exams</a>. Don’t have access to many <a href="https://learningfundamentals.com.au/the-power-of-doing-practice-exams-how-to-do-them-and-where-to-find-them/">practice exams</a> ? No stress. We’ve created <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Quizzes</a>, a database full of exam-style questions (and answers!) for each subject.
Practice exams are also a great way to identify any gaps in your knowledge. Find these gaps and focus on the content you feel least comfortable with.
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Plan Your Time
Yes, this may be the most boring piece of advice, but yes, it will also save your exam-ridden life.
Exam periods are a juggling act. Make sure you know how much time you have until each exam, and you’re aware of how much more work each subject requires. Break it down into hours.
Strike a balance between studying for your next exam, and the other exams that are coming up. Making a <a href="https://www.intelligent.com/create-a-study-plan/">study plan</a> can help, especially if you take into account things like when you focus best, and how long you can focus for.
Remember, <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-study-smarter-not-harder-in-3-easy-steps">study smarter not harder</a>. Maybe there’s one subject you enjoy more than the other? Use it as a reward for getting through a practice exam for your least-favourite subject.
Keep it realistic. There’s no point in creating a study plan that sees you revising for 16 hours straight. You’re human and you need <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-take-a-break-but-not-procrastinate">breaks</a>, so plan for it.
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Calm Down (seriously though)
Exams are stressful. Even if you’re the world’s most organised student in the school. But, <a href="https://www.edutopia.org/blog/neuroscience-behind-stress-and-learning-judy-willis">science</a> shows that stressing is the worst thing you can do in an exam.
When you experience anxiety, the part of your brain that helps you access memory closes off. That’s definitely not what you want during your exam.
Instead, try to <a href="https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/worklife/campus/advice/a20351/how-to-stay-calm-before-an-exam-tips-and-advice-for-how-to-avoid-stress/">calm yourself down</a> with some simple steps:
Don’t focus on what other people are doing, it can be distracting and intimidating. Keep doing you, and don’t get caught up in comparison.
<a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-do-you-know-when-its-time-to-ask-for-help">Ask for help when you need it</a>. Chat to your teacher or a friend if you don’t understand something. Submit a question to us, or arrange a Zoom consultation with us.
Look after your mental health. Studying doesn’t have to be the only thing you do during your exam period. Striking a <a href="https://au.reachout.com/articles/why-you-shouldnt-always-put-studying-first">study-life</a> balance is always important, so go for a walk with a mate, or play video games for an hour as a reward.
You’ve got this!
Words by Ella Katz

It’s a week before your exam. Nerves are probably high, as is stress. But regardless of whether you’re on your 28th practice exam, or your third consecutive season of The Office, we’ve got you!

The Exam Series: A Week Before The Exam

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Science can be fascinating and confusing. Whether you find immunity to be a walk in the park, or can’t wrap your head around quantum physics, science exams can equally stump us all.
With final exams just around the corner, here are our top tips to help you <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-study-smarter-not-harder-in-3-easy-steps">study smarter and not harder</a> for your science exams!
<hr>
<h4>1. Know your Study Design</h4>
Before you resort to rewriting your notes as exam revision, take a good look at your <a href="https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/curriculum/vce/vce-study-designs/Pages/vce-study-designs.aspx">subject study design</a>. Chances are, your notes may be long and contain content that isn’t assessed on your final exam.
This is likely for content-heavy sciences like Biology, Psychology and Health, where it can be hard to decipher what areas are important to consolidate. Use your subject’s course outline to condense your notes down to important information. This will help you to strengthen your knowledge and revise more effectively!
<h4>2. Make Diagrams and Flowcharts</h4>
Trust us when we say these are your <a href="https://www.education.vic.gov.au/school/teachers/teachingresources/discipline/english/literacy/Pages/drawingvisualrepresentations.aspx">best friends</a> in your science revision! Map out your chosen topic to visualise and further your understanding of how everything interlinks. The cool thing is you can be as creative as you want! Grab your favourite pens and highlighters to explore and branch out content areas within a topic.
Depending on your preference, you can make it as pretty as you want. Or you can go full madman and treat the map as a brain-dump, by drawing out everything you know under the topic. For those that learn better digitally, it’s super easy to make flowcharts on platforms like <a href="https://www.google.com.au/amp/s/www.howtogeek.com/424397/how-to-create-a-flowchart-in-word/amp/">Word</a> and <a href="https://www.visme.co/flowchart-maker/">Visme</a>.
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<h4>3. Teach Others</h4>
A classic method in the book, but by far one of the most effective. Select a topic you want to consolidate, and teach it to someone else! Whether that be your parent, sibling, friend, dog or even yourself in the mirror, make sure to vocalise everything you know about the topic. This will help you identify areas you are still unfamiliar with and enhance your knowledge of other areas.
Our experienced and top-scoring tutors explore this revision method to greater detail on <a href="https://app.resn.org.au/wiki/general_tips/40/">RESN Wiki</a>! Take a look to ensure you’re on the right track.
<h4>4. Make the Most of Your Practice Exams</h4>
Are you panicking because you don’t have enough time to complete X number of exams? Let us stop you there. The golden rule is quality over quantity. There is no point churning out exam after exam without identifying areas of weakness to help you improve on the next. There are key differences in exam content between sciences.
Subjects such as <a href="https://physicsworld.com/">Physics</a> and <a href="https://www.livescience.com/45986-what-is-chemistry.html">Chemistry</a> require you to learn equations and formulas and apply them to different problems. This means exposing yourself to lots of practice questions to ensure minimal mistakes are made in your working out and interpretation of questions.
Content-heavy sciences such as <a href="https://www.psychology.org.au/for-the-public/about-psychology/What-is-psychology">Psychology</a> and <a href="https://phys.org/biology-news/">Biology</a> have specific exam marking. It is just as important to understand the content as it is to address all points a question asks.
When tackling practice exam questions:
<ul>
<li>Note the number of marks</li>
<li>Identify key words</li>
<li>Ensure your answer is specific and concise</li>
</ul>
After marking your practice exams, make sure to jot down any mistakes in a book. By doing so, you can refer to them if you encounter a similar question later on.
Short on practice questions? Hop onto <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Quizzes</a> for a large bank of practice questions for you to master your exam preparation!
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<h4>5. Reach Out for Support</h4>
There’s no sugar coating how this year has been. Each one of you has survived the school year and done your best in these tough circumstances, and we want to congratulate you for making it through!
Studying science this year was especially hard without labs, which are a crucial aspect of learning in most sciences. You may be feeling behind, unsure of how to approach revision or simply unmotivated. But it’s definitely not too late to get yourself up to speed! These final weeks are the best time to get support.
Good ways to seek help include:
<ul>
<li>Reaching out to teachers through email/after class.</li>
<li>Revising in groups or with friends/peers.</li>
</ul>
However, we understand that getting help from teachers and peers can be limited, especially with this year’s circumstances.
Have a question you’re aching to resolve right away? That’s why we at RESN have constructed and implemented various platforms to provide you the best academic support we can.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Wiki</a> contains our top tips, tricks and advice for acing your final years of high school.</li>
<li>At <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Help</a>, we enlist the knowledge and expertise of our top tutors to aid you with your VCE, HSC or QCE subjects.</li>
<li>Our exclusive FREE <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RESNtutoring/">RESN Zoom Consultations</a> (4-6pm every Wednesday and Thursday) are running if you have burning questions or need help in your final exam preparation!</li>
</ul>
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We hope these tips aid you in your science exam preparation. Even though it’s crunch-time before exams, remember that balance is key. Between churning through practice exams and revision material, make sure to give yourself downtime to rest and <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-does-realistic-self-care-look-like">take care of yourself</a>.
At RESN, we have your back and wish you all the best for your science exam preparation.
We believe in you!
By Catherine Le

Completely lost with organic chemistry? Can't seem to wrap your head around quantum physics? Here are our top tips to help you ace your final science exams!

Exam Prep 101: Science

It’s one month until your exam. Maybe you’re starting to stress out. Maybe you’re in denial that your exams are so soon. Or maybe you’re feeling pretty good. Whichever boat you’re in, we’ve compiled our top tips that will see you safely to shore!
MAKE THE MOST OF RESN RESOURCES
At RESN, we design our resources based on our own experience as students. We want you to make the most of our collective knowledge.
Use the <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Help</a> forum to bombard us with questions about any subject, or even an essay you want feedback on. We’ll get back to you within 24 hours (yes, we promise). You can even ask us questions about general study tips, and post-school options.
Check out our <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Quizzes</a> for a database full of exam-style questions. Once you’ve answered, we’ll give you a model answer to correct yours against. Can’t get your hands on many full practice exams? We’ve got you.
Have a read of our <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Wikis</a> , where we compile subject-specific info. You’ll see our FAQ’s and our top tricks for nailing each subject.
We’ve recently launched <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RESNtutoring/">RESN Free Zoom Consultations</a> every Wednesday and Thursday 4pm-6pm. Got a burning, subject-specific question, or concern? Join our wonderful tutors on Zoom and fire away!
PRACTICE EXAMS: THE RUNDOWN
We all know <a href="https://app.resn.org.au/wiki/general_tips/38/">practice exams</a> are key to succeeding in Year 12.
But did you know that practicing your <a href="https://www.jacaranda.com.au/blog/free-teacher-resources/year-12-exam-preparation-guide-free-printable-infographic/">exam technique</a> is just as important as knowing your content?
Each and every practice exam is an opportunity to see what the real deal will be like. Make the most of it. Try to mirror the conditions of your real exams.
Turn off your music, put a ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign on your bedroom door, and set your timer.
Your first practice exams will probably suck. You won’t be used to the closed-book conditions and limited time. But don’t give up! With every practice exam you do, make sure to note down mistakes and areas of weakness. Gradually, it will get easier, and you’ll begin to learn how best to approach each section/question.
Short on practice exams? Check out our practice-exam style questions on our <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Quizzes</a>.
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STUDY TIPS
Now is the perfect time to decide which study techniques work best for you and your learning style. <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-study-smarter-not-harder-in-3-easy-steps">Studying</a> is so specific to each and every one of us, so don’t get too caught up in what others are doing.
Do you consider yourself a <a href="https://www.thoughtco.com/study-tips-for-visual-learners-4048480">visual learner?</a>? If so, get your hands on a whiteboard. Draw yourself mind-maps and diagrams that apply the content in ways you can remember.
Or are you a <a href="https://collegeinfogeek.com/flash-card-study-tips/">flashcards</a> person? Pro-tip: don’t fall into the trap of spending all your time making your flashcards, instead of testing yourself. There’s lots of controversy around the hand-written/typed notes debate, but don’t waste time you don’t have.
Whatever you choose, make sure your flashcards help you consolidate knowledge. There’s a tonne of <a href="https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/make-flashcards-online/">online flashcard-creators</a> you can use.
LOOK AFTER YOURSELF
Sleep well, exercise, and eat-well. This is probably the most trotted-out piece of advice. But let’s be real, it’s not always <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-does-realistic-self-care-look-like">realistic</a> or possible to do them all (especially in the lead-up to exams).
Instead, make your aim to look after yourself. If that means gorging yourself on TimTams, then go for it! Your main priority should be your <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/self-care-september-is-here">mental health</a>.
Be kind to yourself. Encourage yourself to do better each week, but don’t fret over the little fails. Trying your best is way better than not trying at all, just because you’re afraid of failing.
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Most importantly? <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-do-you-know-when-its-time-to-ask-for-help">Ask for help</a> when you need it. We’re here for you at RESN, and we want to see you do your absolute best in these exams. All you gotta do is reach out!
Words by Ella Katz

It’s one month until your exam. Maybe you’re starting to stress out. Maybe you’re in denial that your exams are so soon. Or maybe you’re feeling pretty good. Whichever boat you’re in, we’ve compiled our top tips that will see you safely to shore!

The Exam Series: A Month Before The Exam

Procrastination. Everybody does it. Whether it’s deciding to re-organise your bedroom the day before a big assignment is due, or simply scrolling for hours on insta when it’s supposed to be a <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-take-a-break-but-not-procrastinate">5-minute break</a> - we’ve all been there. But procrastination isn’t just about <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/03/25/smarter-living/why-you-procrastinate-it-has-nothing-to-do-with-self-control.html">laziness</a>. According to this <a href="http://eprints.whiterose.ac.uk/91793/1/Compass%20Paper%20revision%20FINAL.pdf">2013 study</a>, we procrastinate because we want to make ourselves feel better in the short-term, rather than achieve our goals in the long-term.
But not all procrastinators are made equal (shout-out to the ones who procrastinate by cleaning). So, what type of procrastinator are you? And what the flip should you do about it?
The One Afraid Of Failure
You’re a perfectionist. You know that you’ve set your standards so high that you don’t want to risk not meeting them.
Try being more compassionate to yourself. Remind yourself it’s entirely <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/blog/fearless-you/201506/9-reasons-you-procrastinate-and-9-ways-stop">okay</a> for this assignment to not be the best one you’ve ever done.
Either way, you’ll never know until you get going…
The Overwhelmed One
You have so much on your plate that you don’t even know where to start. So instead, you decide that now is the time to alphabetise your book-shelf.
Take a deep breath. Instead of thinking about everything that needs to get done, try to think about one thing at a time.
You could try starting with the easiest task. That way, you’ll feel the gratification of ticking a box, and you’ll have smashed a task!
The One Who Can't Walk The Talk
You’re a dreamer. You tell yourself you’ll wake up at 6am and do all your homework, but instead you’re still in bed at 10am watching TikToks.
You need some structure. Dreaming is great, but it’s only the first step. Keep things realistic and break down the steps involved.
Writing out a to-do list or a schedule can be super helpful to keep yourself <a href="https://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifehack/6-reasons-on-why-are-you-procrastinating.html">focussed</a>.
The One Who Just Can't Be Bothered
We all go through this, and it’s totally okay. Some days you just don’t feel like it, and when you get these days, listen to yourself.
Take a second to consider what your priority is at that point. Is it getting into your dream uni course? Or maybe you’ve had a super rough week, and your priority is to make sure you’re looking after your <a href="https://headspace.org.au/">mental health</a>.
Both are valid.
The One Who Is Genuinely Struggling
Your procrastination isn’t something to joke about anymore. You literally don’t feel like getting out of bed, let alone smashing out a 1500-word essay.
Sometimes serious procrastination can be a sign of <a href="https://solvingprocrastination.com/why-people-procrastinate/#The_short_version">mental illnesses</a> such as <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/16506073.2015.1059353">depression</a> , anxiety or ADHD.
Don’t beat yourself up. <a href="https://au.reachout.com/">Reach out</a> and ask for <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-do-you-know-when-its-time-to-ask-for-help">help</a>. Talk to your teachers, your parents, your friends… whoever feels right. See if you can get an extension or ask what academic considerations are available.
Being a procrastinator doesn’t make you lazy. It makes you human. So, take these tips on-board, write that to-do list, put your phone away, and get going. You’ve got this.
Words by Ella Katz

Procrastination. Everybody does it. But procrastination isn’t just about laziness...

What Type of Procrastinator Are You? (And What to Do About It)

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Exams are a month away and we understand that the stress is starting to build up. We have some strategies to help keep you calm and on track not only during <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/self-care-september-is-here">Self-Care September</a> but also beyond.
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<h4>1. Evaluate your priorities and goals.</h4>
When you are under intense pressure, like in the lead up to exams, it is important to be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel so consider - <a href="https://this.deakin.edu.au/study/how-to-set-successful-goals-in-vce">what’s your light</a>?
Ask yourself these questions: What are your goals? Why are you <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/why-do-you-study">working so hard</a> towards these goals? How can you achieve these goals in <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-study-smarter-not-harder-in-3-easy-steps">small but specific steps</a>?
<h4>2. Identify and resolve any stressors.</h4>
Sometimes the best way you can relieve stress and stay focused is to <a href="https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/stress-treatments">remove the source of anxiety</a>.
If you are nervous about your English exam tomorrow (no, you can’t remove it), this might include <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">writing a practice essay</a>. If you’ve got a friend <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-do-you-know-when-its-time-to-ask-for-help">whose mental health you are worried about</a>, send them a text.
However, we often get caught up in the <a href="https://www.sane.org/information-stories/the-sane-blog/managing-symptoms/how-to-stop-catastrophising">situations we create in our mind</a> about what is going to happen in the future or what we wished we could change, which is why the next piece of advice might be useful.
<h4>3. Focus on the present.</h4>
It is easy to stress out about your ATAR or maybe the fact you <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-comes-next-how-to-decide-what-course-best-suits-you">haven’t really decided what you want to do after high school</a>, but the key is to focus on the present and what steps you can take to do your best.
Try to set some time aside to make a long term plan that will set you up for success and what little things you can do each day to meet that goal, like <a href="https://www.insightpublications.com.au/exam-preparation-strategies-for-remembering-quotes/">writing down what English quotes</a> you can remember or timing how many multiple-choice questions you can answer on an exam.
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<h4>4. Use the Eisenhower matrix.</h4>
This <a href="https://www.eisenhower.me/eisenhower-matrix/">time management grid</a> is useful when you have a lot of tasks on your to-do list due but you don’t know where to start.
Tasks are divided into two categories: tasks that are due in a limited amount of time or are urgent and tasks that have value or are important.
Tasks that are both urgent and important are put in the top left corner of the matrix and they are the tasks you do first, followed by the ones you should do later, delegate and eliminate.
<h4>5. Place a buffer on your plans.</h4>
When life consumes the time we had dedicated to studying or doing practice exams, it can be quite stressful. So, let’s try and prepare for the worst, but hope for the best.
<a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/its-never-too-soon-to-revise-old-content-3-reasons-why">Plan ahead</a>, start doing practice essays a week earlier than you planned, tell your family not to interrupt you for the next hour, or even make the time you dedicated to studying half-an-hour longer in case you do get interrupted.
Life doesn’t always go to plan, but if this year has taught us anything, it’s that we can adapt and keep pushing forward.
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It is a stressful time and crazy year but with these tips we hope you can overcome your fears and tackle the final hurdles for the school year!
Remember to <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-take-a-break-but-not-procrastinate">take a break</a> and to <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-comes-next-how-to-decide-what-course-best-suits-you">take care of yourself</a> too.
Good luck!
By Xenia Sanut

Exams are a month away and we understand that the stress is starting to build up. We have some strategies to help keep you calm and on track not only during Self-Care September but also beyond.

How to Stay On Track During Stressful Times

There’s no doubt that Year 11 and 12 are <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-11/year-12-exams-are-they-worth-the-stress/9029260">stressful years</a>. But, how do you know when it’s more than just ‘normal’ stress? Given it’s <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/self-care-september-is-here">Self-Care September</a>, we chatted with Nick Barrington, a Mental Health Nurse and Family Therapist at Latrobe University’s <a href="https://www.latrobe.edu.au/school-psychology-and-public-health/departments/bouverie-centre">Bouverie centre</a>. Nick trains mental health practitioners who specialise in helping rural and regional young adults.
So how do we know when it’s more than ‘normal’ stress?
Nick told us that adolescence is a common time to begin experiencing mental health challenges. Some of the most common include <a href="https://www.beyondblue.org.au/">depression and anxiety</a>, which of course, aren’t helped by the stresses of Year 11 and 12. It’s easy to brush it off as being <a href="https://year13.com.au/articles/5-signs-youre-just-tired">“just tired”</a> or blame it on school stress.
Nick’s says it’s time to start thinking seriously about asking for help “when that stress is not easing up at any point, when you can’t find little bits of lightness in amongst that”. Like any illness, it’s best to catch it early and ask for help sooner rather than later - “once we’re in holes, it’s really hard to dig ourselves out.”
How do we ask for help?
Asking for help can be intimidating. It means being vulnerable at a time when you’re already shaky. According to Nick, it can be easy to worry about how people will respond, or how they will think of you once you tell them. The key? “Finding a person that you feel comfortable asking for support from”.
“As health workers, we often head towards <a href="https://www.lifeline.org.au/real-experiences/community-perspectives/rural-mental-health/">formal supports</a>, but I think it’s important not to forget our informal supports. Friends and family are great first contact points.” Nick also mentions that sometimes family aren’t the best support contacts, and that’s totally fine.
“It might be a friend, a parent of a friend, a GP, somebody that’s in a more formal position of help…”. Nick explains that sometimes, it can feel more comfortable having someone to talk to who you <a href="https://forums.au.reachout.com/t5/Getting-Help/Going-to-the-school-counselor-for-the-first-time/td-p/66831">don’t know personally</a>, and who is in a formal position of helping – like a <a href="https://www.teenvogue.com/story/why-go-to-school-therapist">school counselor</a>.
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What if our family isn’t very helpful?
Our families can have lots of separate stresses and sometimes aren’t the most helpful. Most of the time our families truly do want to support us, but they simply don’t know what that looks like. Nick suggests that even if you don’t feel your family can help you out, it’s best to let them know what you’re going through. This way, at least they are <a href="https://happiful.com/how-to-talk-to-family-about-mental-health/">aware</a>. “I’m just letting you know…” can be a helpful starter.
“Be clear about what it is you would like from them”. Do you want them to help you find a mental health professional to speak to? Or do you just want a hug? <a href="https://www.mhanational.org/time-talk-talking-your-parents">Spell it out</a>.
How do we support a friend who’s struggling?
It can be rough to see a friend struggling. According to Nick, checking in with them and letting them know you’re there for support if they need is a helpful move. In some cases, being supportive doesn’t have to mean asking them about what they’re going through. It can even just be making time to hang out together and letting them bring their stresses up if they want to.
If your friend does bring it up, try to find a <a href="https://www.ruok.org.au/findhelp">resource</a> you can suggest. “I spoke to Ms Collins and she was super helpful” can be a great way to support your friend.
Nick explains that it’s important to <a href="https://www.ruok.org.au/how-to-ask">support</a> and not force. “People tend to find it harder to take up supports when they feel forced to do so… the last thing any of us like when we’re stressed is to feel extra pressure on ourselves to do a certain thing or be a certain way”.
What are your favourite self-care practices?
We’ve written a whole post on <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-does-realistic-self-care-look-like">realistic self-care</a> , but here are Nick’s favourite things.
“I’ve been spending a lot more time in the garden… For me, being outside is incredibly important. Fresh air and actual sunlight are of great value”. Nick also likes to do some sort of physical activity – whether it’s going for a ride or bouncing on the trampoline with his young kids.
Nick added that connecting with his family was also key. “We’ve got out Nintendo set up on our TV, so we come together to race each other at Mario Kart”.
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What services are available?
Nick is well aware that accessing formal mental health support can be even more challenging when you live rurally. That’s why he thinks online resources are so valuable. Most of them are free, but you do have to make an account for some. Here’s a list of Nick’s favourites:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://headspace.org.au/eheadspace/">eHeadspace</a> (connects you with professionals online)</li>
<li><a href="https://moodgym.com.au/?gclid=CjwKCAjw-5v7BRAmEiwAJ3DpuBxDRXl2lH9clxO0DqDE0GrzC48vxW73kxhOboxBZltsnmAKiRm0fRoC5PwQAvD_BwE">Moodgym</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.biteback.org.au/MentalFitnessChallenge/FindOutMore">Bite Back Mental Fitness Challenge</a></li>
</ul>
Nick also suggests that chatting to your GP is a good start. They can make you a mental health plan and connect you with other professionals. Going to your GP also means you can get financial assistance so seeking help doesn’t break the bank.
So reach out, ask for the help you need, and give support to friends that need it. Resources are there to be used. You’ve got this.
Want some more tips about studying? Check out our post on how to take a break without procrastinating <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-take-a-break-but-not-procrastinate">here</a>. Want to know <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-study-smarter-not-harder-in-3-easy-steps">how to study ‘smarter not harder’</a>? We’ve got you covered.

There’s no doubt that Year 11 and 12 are stressful years. But, how do you know when it’s more than just ‘normal’ stress? We talked to Nick Barrington, a mental health nurse, to chat all things asking for help.

How Do You Know When It's Time to Ask for Help?

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Since exams are swiftly approaching, our mental health is definitely taking a back seat as we focus more on <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/its-never-too-soon-to-revise-old-content-3-reasons-why">revising content</a> and doing practice exams.
So let’s be realistic, how can we find the time to take care of ourselves but not end up <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-take-a-break-but-not-procrastinate">procrastinating or getting distracted</a>?
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<h4>1. Make yourself a nice meal.</h4>
Instead of grabbing the bag of chips from the pantry when you get hungry, try turning on the stove and making yourself a yummy meal.
Cooking is calming because it allows you to be creative and <a href="https://www.beyondblue.org.au/personal-best/pillar/wellbeing/cooking-meditation-in-disguise">stay focused on the task at hand</a>.
You also get something to eat afterwards so it’s definitely a win-win situation!
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<h4>2. Have a change of scenery.</h4>
It’s time to close the laptop or the textbook and <a href="https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/news/working-from-home-a-checklist-to-support-your-mental-health-during-coronavirus/">get some fresh air</a>.
It’s a <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/self-care-september-is-here">common self-care activity</a> for many people on our RESN team as it allows you to clear your head and reminds you that the world is bigger than your laptop.
Whether you take a walk or sit in your backyard, either is a great form of self-care.
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<h4>3. Tidy things up a bit.</h4>
Sometimes <a href="https://9now.nine.com.au/the-block/cleaning-jobs-15-minute-work-break-how-to-be-productive/bfa75d07-8df4-443c-97d8-e654b5633463">folding your clothes</a> or tidying up your desk can be a productive way of taking care of your mind and wellbeing.
It relaxes your mind from long periods of study by focusing on something with less brain power.
Not only will you have a clean room or workspace but you’ll also have a clearer mind!
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<h4>4. Sit down and have a chat.</h4>
We often underestimate the power that our conversations and <a href="https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/news/friendships-mental-health">connections with people</a> have on improving our mental health.
Our relationships provide us with the much needed <a href="https://headtohealth.gov.au/supporting-someone-else/how-to-support-someone">emotional support</a> and encouragement to get us through this difficult time.
Try catching up with your friends and family -- if restrictions allow -- and talk about how life has been. It will do wonders for your wellbeing and also for <a href="https://www.ruok.org.au/how-to-ask?campaign=285465530&amp;content=300811345567&amp;keyword=mental%20health&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwqML6BRAHEiwAdquMnU5JCI1yFdvyHjpd5nggN574iMwMrJjPl_XhJaIk36YVGQrrraftNBoCBCAQAvD_BwE">theirs too</a>.
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<h4>5. Listen to some music.</h4>
Did you know music helps alleviate stress and <a href="https://www.openminds.org.au/news/5-positive-effects-music-mental-health">improve your mood</a>?
That means that there’s absolutely no shame in <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/blog/the-athletes-way/201712/singing-your-heart-out-has-surprising-psychological-benefits">singing along</a> to your favourite songs and <a href="https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/dance-health-benefits">dancing around the house</a> because you absolutely deserve it.
So why not pop on some tunes and dance the exam stress away?
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<h4>6. Do something you enjoy doing for a little while.</h4>
Perhaps you don’t like listening to music, cleaning or cooking, but everyone has something that they enjoy and helps them relax.
If you’ve started questioning <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/why-do-you-study">what all the study is for</a> or are tired of <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/what-comes-next-how-to-decide-what-course-best-suits-you">deciding your future</a>, take a break and do something you love.
It can be as niche as you want, just as long as it brings you joy and happiness.
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Sometimes it’s the small things that help us stay healthy and motivated.
But when you feel ready to get back into the thick of <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/how-to-study-smarter-not-harder-in-3-easy-steps">studying smarter, not harder</a>, check out the <a href="https://www.resn.org.au/blog/quizzes-wiki-launch">RESN Quizzes &amp; Wiki</a> which will get you all set for exams.
Good luck! We believe in you!
By Xenia Sanut

Exams are swiftly approaching and our mental health is definitely taking a back seat, how can we find the time to take care of ourselves but not end up procrastinating?