Work and study... it's easier than you may think!

Some people may think that working and studying is next to impossible, or like killing yourself. Perhaps some consider going back to school, after a long number of years, frightening. Some may fear failure, commitment and sacrifice. Others may think getting a higher education is out of their reach.

Well, I used to think all this! I was in the wrong job, working nine to five, bored to death with my working life. Somehow, believing that work needn't be a sacrifice, I decided to make a move. I enrolled for a part-time course at the University. I was 29 and since then I never stopped.

I went in for a one-year certificate course. I thought a year is not much and I could always stop there. I stayed on and continued the second year for a diploma. I got a BA after five years and then a Masters degree by distance learning from the University of Leicester.

I will never forget that day aged 29... learning has changed my life! Besides the obvious benefits of ameliorating my position at work, more possibilities for promotion and higher pay, learning gave meaning to my working life and, what's more, to my life in general.

It changed my perspective and outlook to life. It allowed me to pursue a job that gives me satisfaction, so that work became an opportunity for growth rather than a mundane, routine experience that killed my enthusiasm in life.

It boosted my self-confidence. Learning has opened new horizons for me and given me so many paths to choose from. Learning gave me the power to choose!

If you ask me whether I would do it again... oh yes, I would! And if I could do it, everyone can. So, if you're contemplating and hesitating on taking up a part-time course, pluck up your courage and go for it. It's well worth it.

I would like to share a word of advice, though, so you can avoid unnecessary disappointments.

First and foremost, choose a subject you like. This is imperative if you want to enjoy your studies and minimise the possibilities of quitting. Also important is to clarify with yourself why you want to pursue this line of studies. Where is it going to take you? Is it certified and internationally recognised?

Join a study group. No matter how much you think you're able to work on your own, it helps to have someone to share and discuss your problems with. A study group also helps to provide insights on a topic at hand and helps you look at the same issue from a different perspective. It also provides you with moral support, which sometimes you would need when the going gets a bit tough!

This statement might sound like a cliché: manage your time effectively. It is the secret of success, though. Plan the number of hours you need to put into your study and stick with it. If you're taking up a distance learning course, having no lectures requires that you structure your time and studies on your own.

This requires self-discipline. You need to plan your study time effectively; otherwise, you'll get overworked with approaching deadlines and you won't enjoy your studies. When you learn to manage your time effectively, you'll find you have time for everything - work, study, family, and leisure. Obviously, you then afford more time to your priorities.

I found it very helpful to practise some sports as well. Exercising helps to clear our mind and therefore allows us to think more clearly. It releases tension and stress, and without these our mind works and functions better. Even if it's just a brisk walk for half an hour.

If you're feeling stressed out, cannot concentrate or you're out of ideas, do something physically exerting to help clarify your mind.

Above all, be positive! Always encourage yourself with positive and reassuring self-talk. Remember, when you believe, you can!

I wish to thank everyone at FHRD, particularly Daniela Gouder, for their continued support throughout my post-graduate studies with the University of Leicester. Their efficient service and friendly approach helped to make the process a lot more hassle free and a pleasant experience. Thank you all!

Ms Meli recently read a Masters in Training and HRM with the Centre for Labour Market Studies, University of Leicester, managing to achieve an overall distinction grade. She is a freelance trainer and organises personal empowerment training courses. For more information visit her website at www.personalpowermalta.com