How to juggle studies and still perform at your peak
TOP TIPS
By Amy Ridge
My name is Amy Ridge and I am an Olympic water polo player studying Arts/Law. I am in my 7th year of studying part-time. I have always felt it is important to make the most of my opportunities both in my sporting career and at university. I have been lucky enough to travel the world playing water polo, including receiving a scholarship to study in the US and playing professionally in Greece, which is where I am currently.
These are my top 4 tips for juggling my study, water polo, and international travel while aiming to perform at my best both in the classroom and on the world stage...
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Have a plan
I have all my commitments detailed in a yearly calendar so that I can reschedule any assignments or exams that might clash in advance. I also use a weekly diary to plan my study and recovery between training sessions.
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Set short term goals
Having this yearly calendar somewhere visible, alongside a weekly diary, helps me set short-term goals for the week to maximise my productivity. If I know I have a lighter training block, I will set more goals for uni and vice versa. This also helps me stay motivated in all areas of my life.
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Be proactive
I always try to approach my Elite Athlete Program Coordinator and my professors with all my commitments and a proposal for how we might reschedule any clashes at the beginning of the term. I find that taking this initiative means that they are more willing to cater to my needs.
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Work out what is best for you
I have watched cohorts of students graduate before me, but I know that I only have a small window of time to pursue a professional sporting career and perform at my best. I have chosen to study part-time to harness my potential as a water polo player, but also with the knowledge that my career in the pool will come to an end, and that I would like to be successful in my career after sport.
I am incredibly grateful for the support of UNSW and the Elite Athlete Program who have allowed me to study flexibly throughout my degree.
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