The new year is upon us and it’s a natural time to set some goals and targets for the 12 months ahead. For a student, there is always so much to think about – focusing on classes, taking part in sporting activities, volunteering, maybe even exploring and developing new interests or even potential business ideas, and getting university applications in on time.
They key with goal setting, and making New Year’s resolutions, is to make sure whatever you aim for is SMART – specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, time-bound.
In this post, we’ll look at some of the potential goals that students could think about setting themselves for the next few months and how to achieve them – a large part of that is based on having the right support – something we pride ourselves on here at The Global College as we prepare our students to continue their education at universities around the world before taking their first steps in varied and exciting careers.
How to make good resolutions
Goal setting and resolutions are all about measuring forward progress, and for students, that often includes academic progress. Personal goals, specific goals, and a growth mindset are all crucial for effective New Year’s resolutions for students. You’ll want specific ways to know if you’ve achieved your plan and to assess where improvements can still be made.
Student goal setting is all about connecting your educational goals with the rest of your new year resolutions. With a strong focus on mentoring and career guidance, we are here to help you achieve your dreams.
It’s never too late to start or change when it comes to student goal setting, whether you want to set short- or long-term goals. As you stay positive, work on strategies to alter behaviour and motivation, or perhaps set yourself the goal of launching an entrepreneurship project you’ll see a great end result.
Focus on learning
While completing assignments or studying for exams focus on understanding and learning about each subject, and think about how this learning is applied in a real life setting. Do you like working on this subject? Is it something you want to learn more about? What are the key takeaways from each lesson? That’s why our innovative program and the IB curriculum are key: the knowledge you get from school and exploring different topics will prepare you for university, building your career and the work ahead.
This year, make a plan to focus on the learning and lessons behind each assignment, and defining the subjects you would like to learn more about, as understanding this will help you choose your bachelor’s degree and university path.
Find a good study and life balance
Sometimes, going to school feels all-consuming. There’s always another test to study for, or another essay paper to write. However, just as important as the academic side of things is developing an array of interests outside of the classroom. Our campus in Madrid is located in the heart of the city, which will allow you to explore all sorts – from sports, to music and drama, and the arts.
Make a resolution this year to truly find balance and schedule to help you fit everything in – head to an exhibition at the Prado or Reina Sofia, take in an opera at the Teatro Real, go for a stroll around the green lungs of Madrid – the Retiro Park.
Work towards your dream job
Now is the time to start thinking about what you’d like to do in the future and how to get there. One thing to consider this year perhaps is to choose the subjects you’d like to do that will help you get there. Our IB program gives you plenty of options to choose you areas of interests, and of course we place great emphasis on developing entrepreneurship skills too, so you’ll have what it takes to set up your own venture if that’s what you dream of.
Make the most of opportunities through our alliance with IE University, such as attending lectures by leading faculty members and professionals.
Above all else though, when it comes to the New Year – enjoy, and be happy!
