Hey everyone! I am Janvi Jagasia, Vice-President Education (Health) at KCLSU.

Before the academic year begins, I would like to share some tips that will help you stay organised at King’s and have a wonderful time. 

Starting your journey at King’s is an exciting adventure, filled with endless opportunities for growth and learning. As you navigate through your time at King’s, it's crucial to maintain a sense of organisation to ensure you make the most of London your time. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that you have a healthy balance between all aspects of your life - your academics and extracurriculars.  

Embrace digital tools

There are various tools you can use help you stay organised. Make the most of apps like Evernote, Trello, or Microsoft OneNote to manage your notes. For those of you who have an iPad, you can use apps like Notability and Goodnotes to write your notes during lectures and seminars. Notion can also be used to collate all your deadlines, notes and assignments all in one app. Additionally, apps like Google calendar and Microsoft Excel can be used to stay on top of assignments, and deadlines. These tools enable you to keep track of your tasks, set reminders and access your materials from anywhere, making the hectic student life a bit more manageable.  

 

Create a comprehensive study schedule

 

Time management is the key to success at university. Make sure you have a detailed study schedule that allocates specific time blocks for lectures, reading, assignments, self-learning and personal activities. By making a schedule and adhering to it, you'll be better equipped to balance your academic commitments while maintaining a healthy social life. It is important to remember that aspects of social and academic life are both equally important to enjoy your time at King’s whilst exploring everything that London has to offer.  

 

Utilise Campus Resources

King’s offers an array of resources designed to support your academic journey. Familiarise yourself with the libraries such as the Maughan library and New Hunts House and study spaces available on campus. My favourite spot to study is Wills Library on Guy’s Campus! Not many students know about this library so it’s a great quiet spot to study at. These spaces provide a favourable environment for focused learning and collaboration. For those of you who like studying in a social location, there are cafes inside Guy’s and Strand campus called The Shed and The Shack where you can study as well! 

Prioritise effective notetaking

If you don’t have one specific notetaking technique that works for you, experiment with different techniques, such as Cornell notes, mind mapping, making flashcards, to find what works best for you. It is important to realise you engage in active learning rather than passive learning to help retain information as well as streamline your revision process. 

Stay on Top of Deadlines

Staying on top of deadlines can be stressful. Use a physical planner or digital calendar to keep track of assignment due dates, exams, and other important events. Regularly reviewing your calendar will help you stay ahead and avoid last-minute rushes.  

Engage in regular self-assessment

Take time to reflect on your progress and adjust your strategies accordingly. From time to time review your study methods, time management techniques, and organisation tactics. This self-assessment will enable you to fine-tune your approach and continuously improve your organisational skills. Additionally, it can also help you streamline your learning process.  

Maintain a clean and organised workspace

Your physical environment plays a significant role in your productivity! Keep your study space clutter-free and organised to minimise distractions and create a conducive atmosphere for learning. A tidy workspace can have a positive impact on your focus and concentration. 

Maintaining a healthy balance with all aspects of your life

A big part of having a productive day and staying organised is also to have periods where you don’t study/work. There needs to be moments when you switch off, shut down your laptop. It’s important to take time out to do the things you love. Whether it’s staying in and reading your favourite book or having a night out with your friends, make sure you make time for yourself.  

 

Last but not the least. Don’t be too harsh on yourself! While university can be overwhelming with academic responsibilities, don’t forget to engage in extracurricular activities and social events. Take part in societies and go to the wide range of events that KCLSU has to offer!