Can You Study While Travelling?
Travelling is one of the best ways to explore new places and meet new people, but with the rise of remote learning, more people can combine both activities. Whether you've recently graduated and looking at options to study courses such as the masters of education online, or you're an established professional who wants to develop more skills, there are now many options to study while on the road. So what are the advantages and disadvantages of this lifestyle? And how do individuals make it work in the long run? Keep reading to find out.
Study While Travelling and How it Works
The act of holidaying and studying have traditionally been seen as separate experiences, but after the shift towards remote working and studying, driven by the global pandemic, more courses have been available online. This has led to increased flexibility, meaning that many have decided to take their studies on the road and travel overseas while completing online courses. While it isn't the ideal situation for most, there are many younger students with fewer obligations that are willing to take this path and enjoy some adventure.
The Benefits of Studying while Travelling
Travelling can be looked at through two lenses, many people travel for pure leisure and want to sit on the beach sipping margaritas. But for those wanting to learn more about the world and develop themselves, immersion in cultures and environments while studying can be incredibly stimulating. Let's look at some of the benefits.
Flexibility to Travel and Learn Simultaneously
The most obvious advantage to studying while travelling is that it allows you to do both simultaneously. Your studies won't be interrupted, and you can continue your course from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. This gives you the flexibility to travel without having to sacrifice studying or vacation time which can be incredibly efficient and time-saving.
Networking with Students and Professionals
This experience also presents the opportunity to network and collaborate with other students and professionals from around the world living unique lifestyles similar to yours. When you get out of your bubble you'd be surprised by the amount of interesting people you can meet that are doing incredible things. They can not only serve as support and friendship on your journey but also as inspiration on how to live life in different and unique ways.
Growth in Confidence and Independence
For those just out of high school and rather inexperienced in life, studying while travelling can also help to boost confidence and independence. By pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and experiencing different cultures, you will naturally become more confident in yourself and your abilities. Not only this but once you develop the ability to balance studies and travel you can further increase your self-reliance.
Tips to Overcome Challenges for Studying While Travelling
There are some things you should be aware of when travelling and studying before trying this new lifestyle, it's not always the easiest and focus can be difficult. It's easy to get distracted by the activities, sights and sounds of everything around you, especially for those that struggle with discipline. But here are some things to make it easier for you.
Create a Study Schedule
One great way to stay focused is to create a study schedule and stick to it, this allows you to balance your academic work with your travel adventures. It's way too easy to fall off track if you have got a solid schedule stuck in place. Many logistical things like accommodation, food, and travel might get in the way, but if you start the day with a list of what you need to do and schedule that into your calendar, it will be much easier to complete those tasks.
Finding the Right Study Areas
Finding quiet and comfortable study spots, like a library or cafe, can help eliminate distractions and improve workflow. The right workspace is critical for productivity and while you might not have an office on the road there are many places you can look out for that are comfortable and good environments.
Balance Sightseeing and Study
As we touched on before, it's important to schedule your time right and this doesn't only mean time for working. Your study sessions might even be improved by incorporating sightseeing to take your mind of study and to rest and rejuvenate. You're in a unique situation where you're studying around the world so take advantage of the beautiful sights and experiences you can have for your break time.
Conclusion
Staying focused while travelling and studying can be a difficult task, but for many, it's already a reality. If you want to start to study and travel then by creating a study schedule, finding the right study areas and balancing sightseeing with your studies you will be able to get the most out of both worlds. If you think this is right for you then don't be afraid to take the plunge.
