View Full Version : External Students Thread
Hello fellow students:wave: ,
I am new to this forum thing so I have no idea what DD or DH or any other letters mean, but I'll try to explain myself as succintly as I can.
I'm a 26-year-old mother of two girls living in Sydney's Inner West. I've just begun my studies through UNE Armidale for a Bachelor Arts/Bachelor Teaching, secondary. I'm majoring in Drama and minoring in History and English.
I thought it'd be a good idea to talk to other mom's who are doing it or have done it because, let's face it, we need all the motivation we can get. When I was doing college in Canada, I really took my single life for granted. I partied and did assignments the night before. That's just not possible now! I began my reading as soon as my books arrived because I am time deficient. There is just so much reading and it's only first year!:sleeping:
:( Also, I am already feeling guilty about the time it is taking away from my girls. The eldest is nearly three and attends preschool three days a week and the youngest, who is just over one, goes with my mother-in-law two days a week. We are in a less than common situation. Our eldest has a blood disorder and random viruses can cause her to require a blood transfusion and time in hospital. She hasn't had one for nearly a year, but I still worry it will happen during residential school or exams and I won't be able to be there for her. On top of all that, our youngest was just diagnosed with hypotonia, low muscle tone. It means that she requires physio, occupational and speech therapy twice a month. I didn't know about this when I signed-up for full-time studies, so my guilt is just increasing that I won't be able to do all the exercises with her and still manage to get my reading/assignments done. Part of me thinks I should drop out, but the other knows that this will lead to a better future for my family to have a mother employed in a field that is highly family-friendly. Has anyone else gone through the guilt and questioning phase? It's just so much pressure being a mom. No matter what age you are, it never gets any easier.:confused:
So yeah, introduce yourself and tell your story. I'd love to know of other mom's battling it out and winning.
All good things,
Terra
Hey there Terra
Congrats on starting your studies, it's definately different studying when you have kids to when you are single. I am in my second year, but i have had a long break from studies due to family circumstances etc. I am studying externally through Southern Cross Uni at Lismore and am studying a Bach of Social Science majoring in Human Resource Management with a minor in HR Development.
I find the guilt hard too, DS is only 15 months old and a highly demanding little individual, lol! I also have a 26 year old DH who is highly demanding too! (I'm his full-time carer as he has a Brain Injury). Anywho, so between the two i try and squeeze in as much work as i can.
I am slowly getting into all the course materials, uni officially starts for me on the 26th but because of being external i have all my study guides now so i can get a bit of a headstart.
I have a question about allocation of study load?? For example how much time would you dedicate to your normal readings/study guide materials and then how much time would you allocate for your assignments per week. I always have trouble concentrating too much on my weekly tasks and leave assignments to the last minute, but obviously need to be more organised this time round! Also, are you full-time or part-time, can't remember if you said so. I am full-time, however i am only doing 3 subjects. I hope that i can manage ok. Be good to share some tips with eachother as we continue our course load.
Goodluck
Veronica
Oh also DD is Darling Daughter, DH is darling husband etc etc...
New to Sydney
17-02-2007, 14:28
:wave: Hi Terra,
I am starting back at uni this year, I am only doing one subject this semester as I am not enrolled in a degree as I need to prove my 'academic worth' lol :p due to a major **** up straight out of school.
I am studying towards being a primary teacher through Macquarie Uni, but will probably be moving back to Melbourne at the end of the year, so I will have to continue there.
I understand the guilt thing completely! DD is in pre-school 2 days and DS is only 3months so time is going to be tight and they will no doubt loose some of the attention they would otherwise recieve.
Good luck this year! Cassie
Hi everyone,
I study externally (live in Brisbane and study through Central Qld Uni Rocky) and love it. I was to finish my final year this year, but found out I was pregnant and due about 3 weeks out from end of semester one, so I will defer this year and finish it off next year.
I love studying externally as it suits my lifestyle as a busy mother!
Good luck everyone,:party: :party:
Camille.
Hi all!
I'm back at uni this year after deferring last semester due to DD. I reside in Goodna, Qld and am studying Librarianship through Charles Sturt Uni Wagga Wagga.
I'm attempting 2 subjects this semester as I'd really like to graduate as soon as possible but am unsure how it will go with active and hard to get to sleep 1 year old.
Since I received my study materials early I've made a head start on them but am unsure how long that will last.
I'd be interested to hear of others that are studying via distance with young child and any tips you might have!! And I can't really do the caffine thing because I'm still breast feeding. :laughing:
I suppose the best thing is getting your books and study materials early. It's allowed me to get my reading started. I'm doing a bachelor arts/bachelor teaching, but for some reason there is little actual homework. Lots of readin, LOTS! But only one or two assignments in the whole term. Which is good, but who knows how hard the exams will be.
I've been trying to make some of my mother jobs a bit easier for myself to give me more time with the girls and to study. I do a big veggie chop on sunday night and tuperware it so that I can make dinners fairly quickly. I've also had to abandon my semi-noble effort in using cloth nappies as I simply don't have the time to be washing them every day. On top of the fact that the "little" one in them keeps getting bigger and I end up needing to upgrade.
You really have to limit leisure time, not that we had much to begin with. But often the nights watching a bit of t.v. or spending time surfing the internet aimlessly just have to be replaced with nose to the grindstone stuff. :shame:
I have to say that I find everyone's comments reassuring. That I am not the only one doing it tough. It's easy to feel isolated, especially as an external student. But we all have our battles and that there are people who actually made it our the otherside more or less unscathed is really encouraging.
Best of luck and happy reading!:yelclap:
All good things,
Terra
p.s. what to dd and ds and dh stand for? i'm so not hip to the forum lingo. and how do i get those cool things at the end that say how old my wee ones are? i feel so lame.:gloomy:
New to Sydney
19-02-2007, 19:50
Hey Terra, how you doing?
First off, DD - Darling daughter, DS - Darling Son, Dh Darling Husband etc etc etc.
The bit were you add names and dates is in 'User Control Panel' click 'Edit Signature'.
I can't believe so many people have their books and course materials. It is really sad but after so long not using my brain for anything in particular, bar talking to a toddler and working p/time, I can't wait to get started.
BRING IT ON! :smiliedance: (How tragic is that?)
ButterflyMama
19-02-2007, 20:43
Hello everyone. :wave:
My name's Jessie... I'm currently studying Early Childhood externally through OTEN.
I'm 32 weeks pregnant with our first baby! My husband is also a student, second year studying Pharmacy. I plan on being a SAHSM (stay at home studying mum).
Ideally I'd love to work in a Kindergarten and then someday do more tertiary study in the Early Childhood/Psychology areas.
So that's my story. Looking forward to getting to know everyone. Will be great to have some support from people in similar situations!
Jessie
hi,
i'm shira. i'm studying 3rd year social work. last year i managed to get 2 subjects under my belt before I had my DD. i took 2nd semester off and now i'm back to do 2 subjects each semester of this year. next year I will have to do a 70 day placement so i need to finish these subjects this year.
unfortunately i don't know how i will handle doing 2 subjects!! i am feeling really anxious. at any given moment i don't know whether to study/wash the dishes/hang up the washing/play with my baby/prepare for one of the 5 students i tutor.
lasy year was also a challenge but i got through by being very organised. this year i'm sleep deprived!
i'd love to be part of a support thread.
Well uni offically starts (for me) on Monday and although I've started and finished the readings required for the first modules I still don't know how I'll tackle the assignments.
Little Miss sleeps for about 20mins in morn and 20mins in afternoon and may sometimes go down at night ok and most nights not and won't until I come to bed with her (we co-sleep). I used to devote a whole day to writing assignments as I'd go in and out of the study to clear head etc and go back to writing - not sure how I'll do it now. Everyone suggests studying at night but I'm usually a brain dead zombie by then.
I suppose time will tell!!!
MCNmummyof2
26-02-2007, 09:58
Well I think I've finished my 1st assignment, still waiting on uni to get their butt into gear for my other 3 tho!!
aardvark
26-02-2007, 10:04
I'm doing an MBA by distance education through APESMA. It's convenient and cost effective.
The unit I am doing at present will mark the halfway point when I complete it - it's the 6th one out of 12 units, assuming I passed the summer semester subject (results next week). I am just doing one unit per semester, I find more than that would be just too much for me or my family to handle.
I periodically take off for a week or more with bub to my mother's holiday house while I have been on maternity leave so I can get more reading done. I'm just back from a week of it again now, as I am trying to break the back of the reading and the assignment before my maternity leave ends in two weeks.
Not sure how many people know about this scheme: http://www.anu.edu.au/caul/ula/
If you have access to a uni library near by you may be able to join as a reciprocal borrower.
manxgirl77
05-03-2007, 18:17
Hi guys,
I thought I'd say hi, I'm studying biometrics externally at UQ. It's my last subject for my degree in applied science, & I really wished I hadn't left it to last! I only have this year to finish it as I've been at it for 10 years. I need to put in about 20hrs per week, which is a bit tough as I'm working fulltime. I'm still trying to figure out when I will leave work, it may be sooner rather than later to get through uni. My boss has refused my request to work part time which is a bit annoying, particularly since I work for the Govt! (I would understand this in private enterprise). My exam is scheduled the week my bub is due, so that will be interesting!
Good luck with it everyone.. better go hit the books again.
:banghead:
:wave: hello all,
i'm an external student, studying Grad Dip Teaching at QUT, part time.
finding it hard to get organised!
love to hear all your study tips coz study this time round is a lot dif to when i was young and had all the time in the world!!!!
these are my study tips:
1. study/read when baby is sleeping (ok that's obvious!)
2. at beginning of week do up a dinner roster so i can plan ahead ie shopping list even chop up veg ahead (sad, i know)
3. ignore unnecessary housework
4. get my parents and in laws to babysit so i can have some blocks to study
5. every couple of days i get up at 4am to study coz i don't study so well at night:sleeping:
6. have an afternoon walk with baby to clear head
7. drink plenty of water and snack on fruit/veg coz it helps me keep my head clear and focused
does anyone else have any organisation/time management tips???
:p if you do, could you put in dot point coz i can read easier - cheeky of me to ask i know but it's the truth and i really want to hear what others are doing to stay on track!
Let me start by saying how brave you are for starting back at uni with a bub so young!
I am due in early May and am doing 1 subject (12 weeks worth crammed into 6 - so I can finish it before bub comes) and I decided to go back next March when bub is around 10 months old.
Your tips were fantastic and I will have to steal them for myself for next year!
I have no idea what it will be like to study with a baby as when I started study part time back in 2004 my little boy was 4 and was at daycare 2 days a week which gave me the few hours a day for 2 days to do the required part time study.
Keep the tips coming!
Camille.
MCNmummyof2
06-03-2007, 15:04
My tips
look into flylady (an organisational tool for your cleaning, I swear by it!!)
invest in a crock pot for cooking
never cook 1 meal at a time, if you are in the kitchen try to cook at least 2-3 meals, even if its just a double serve of the meal you are making
record your notes onto a tape so that you can listen to them in the grocery store, while doing cleaning etc etc
for subjects without exams only read what is needed for the assignments
for subjects with exams, read everything they tell you to and start writing up notes straight away!!!
BE ORGANISED!!! set up a study schedule, try and have somewhere in the house set up so you can study and leave things out, that way you dont spend 20 mins finding everything and getting it out, only to find out you have run out of time
My tips
look into flylady (an organisational tool for your cleaning, I swear by it!!)
hi MCNmummyof2,
thanks for tips! but more info on flylady would be great - is this a cleaning service??
:)
MCNmummyof2
07-03-2007, 11:04
www.flylady.net
Its not a cleaning service, its a program (free) that teaches you how to be more organised by cleaning daily etc rather than leaving it till your house resembles ww2!!
millersmum
14-03-2007, 18:47
You guys are great! It is so good to get tips from other mums who are studying, I now don't feel quite so alone and depressed.
I am studying externally a diploma in counselling which I started when my now almost four yr old was 6months. I now have an 11 month old as well and don't forget my 9yr old daughter. All my children and myself have extreme food allergies and intollerances so I am constantly preparing meals as we can't buy take away or take many short cuts. I have also worked part time and done some volunteer counselling over the past four yrs. My study is self paced which I am discovering sucks because I have to decide how much to do. I am over half way through (up to unit 12) and there are 22 units to do altogether. I currently need all the encouragement in the world as I am soooo tired and I would really love to give up and go to work but I know to achieve my dreams I must keep going. I would love to be in a class room environment but in Tassie that is not possible for many subjects. I miss people. All encouragement welcome............
Hey Millersmum, that must be really hard with meal planning, i find that's obviously one thing you can't get out of doing! lol. I have to cook gluten free for me, but if i'm lazy i will just be naughty and cook whatever or get takeaway. Not often though. I only have one child who's 16 months and i look after my husband who's got short term memory problems due to an acquired brain injury. It's not too bad though cause he can help out a lot with DS while i'm studying by making his lunch and keeping him entertained, so i'm very lucky for that. Anyways, must go and get some housework done before i get back into today's study.
Goodluck ladies, keep up the good work!
Hi everyone, well Im now 32 weeks with 7 weeks before the big date!
I am in week 2 of study and have been so good and done 6 weeks worth of reading from my study guide and in the middle of the first assignment. The lecturer cant believe it!
Ive got 6 more weeks of reading and the 2nd assignment which I hope to knock over in around 4 weeks, giving me a few weeks before bub is due to come.....
I forgot how much I love studying, keeps my mind off how uncomfortable I am right now! Thank god my other kids are in school all day!
Good luck everyone, :cool: study hard,
Camille.
kristy_lily
15-03-2007, 18:55
Hi Everyone,
I'm doing my 6th unit in Criminology and Criminal Justice with another 20 units to go.
I have started cooking extra food cos my partner works late so I just feed the kids and normally snack when they've gone to bed and I have 1 day when it's child free so I go through and give the house a really good clean (eg: windows, skirting boards, cupboards, fridge) so then it's just general cleaning in between study.
Living in Tassie it makes it hard cos I can never find the text books that I need or when I do find them it takes nearly 2 weeks for them to arrive :(
Good luck everyone with your study and I hope everything goes well with it.
Kristy :wave:
millersmum
16-03-2007, 13:22
Hi Kristy_Lily,
You are amazing, if you only have one child free day and you spend that cleaning you must study at night do you? I'm finding night study challenging as the kids are exhuasting, yet I study when I have my child free day or sometimes 2 days, and then the untidy house frustrates me. The joys of being a studying mum!!! I thinkI may need a strong night time coffee to get me going when the kids go to bed!
Regards Millersmum:thumbsup:
I wish I had a child free day but the only child free day I have is when I'm working. I also find studying at night hard - for a start my one year old DD is not good going to bed in the evening so by the time she does sleep (and she usually wakes up 2 times before a full sleep) I'm usually so exhausted that I join her or I can't keep my eyes open to concentrate on study.
If I try during the day I'm so busy trying to see what she's up to or playing with her as she only has short naps during the day.
I'm glad I'm only doing 2 subjects this semester. Think I have to train my husband to do more "duties" for me at night and on weekends just to give me a block of time I can concentrate in.
MCNmummyof2
16-03-2007, 17:52
I too am starting to find studying at night hard. Im so stuffed at the end of the day!! Im tossing up getting up early (hate to think how early!! - my normal wake up time is about 4.30 for the kids!!!), to get started!
Someone motivate me. I've spent most of this weekend working (yes I had to and I did some research while there - slap my wrists but I work in a library), and watching DVD's.
I have 3 weeks before the assignments are due but was hoping to get a head start and maintain it throughout so I won't stress as much. On top of the study, work and "mother" tasks I also have to complete my scholarship research which means I have to finish my report and presentation before July for presenation and publishing in October. See my blog if you're interested in what I'm researching: www.dunnandwilson.blogspot.com
It just seems my DD doesn't sleep enough and I don't seem to be very good at working in 5-15minute intervals with the worry I'll just get my head into it all only to be disturbed once she wakes up and I feel guilty when I try and study when she's awake cause I'm not interacting with her. Blah - I can't win!!
BlueEyedGirl
20-03-2007, 22:19
Ponyboy, I am exactly the same - although without such a huge workload!
I just cannot stay motivated to stay ahead, or at least in time with the others doing my course!
And the guilt is eating me away! I have taken to staying up late to study, but sometimes I am so enthralled in it all, that I am up til 2am:eek: Isabelle is not an early morning girl (7am onwards most days), so that helps, but all I feel like doing when we get up is snoozing on the lounge with ABC kids on:o
One thing that I found kinda helps, is to just set it all up on the coffee table while she plays, and occasionally join in, or when I am sitting at the dining table, she brings out her crayons and book to "study" aswell:p
Hi everyone.
I've got 2 50% assignments looming and I have been feeling really stressed. It is hard to block off time for study. I have been forced to study at night, but since I tutor at night to earn some money, I am exhausted. My bub is a nightwaker, too, and sleep deprivation is making it so much harder to concentrate.
Today I managed to work for 2 hours in the morning so I feel less anxious. I think I actually understand the first assignment's question which is a good start!
I also got a cleaner in this morning which has also made me feel calmer. I am a flybaby (love flylady!) but every 15 minutes while bub is asleep needs to be given to study not cleaning!
Thank goodness so much research, journals etc is available on the net so I don't have to leave the house to study!
kristy_lily
22-03-2007, 09:05
Hi Guys :wave:
Hows everyone's study going? I had an online exam on Monday so I spent the weekend reading up to prepare but then got a mental block when it came time to start so I only ended up with 36 out of 100 :( but my lecturer said not to worry cos it's only 25% of the overall mark...thank god!
I have been extremely lucky this week, my DP has been looking after the kids and doing the house work for me so I can study which has been a huge help as I've decided to do another course...BA in Aboriginal Studies...but luckily I don't start that until August.
My next unit is pretty daunting, not good with statistics so it should be interesting
Well, it's time for me to get back to my reading and making notes for my next exam (only 3 weeks away) :banghead:
Hope everyone is going well.
Bye for now,
Kristy :smiliedance:
You are lucky to have such a helpful hubby Kristy!!:thumbsup:
Well Im now 33 weeks and just finishing the 3rd week of semester. I am lucky with this course (health communications) I am able to go at my own pace, as I have already read weeks 1 - 8 and will finish assignment#1 today.
That leaves weeks 9 - 12 to read and assignment#2 - all with 6 weeks to go!!!
Despite being uncomfortable and tired I am managing fine, in fact, it keeps my mind off it!
Keep studying hard everyone,:D
Camille
After weeks of research and procrastination I have finally made a start on my assignment which is due in 2 weeks (was hoping to have it handed in by now to give me a head start on the next one - but with all great plans.....).
Have also started putting DD in her cot at night (she normally sleeps with us) tonight as our sleep is getting distrubed way too much - she kicks us and kicks the sheets off and generally moves around too much, while my arm falls asleep and neck gets cramped. So we are taking the plunge and hoping it will work out after a couple of nights. :fingerscrossed:
I really wish I was a person that had the gift of the gab. I have a friend that can just write excellent prose at the drop of a hat whereas I feel like I have to have a thesaurus sitting next to me for every second word - creative writing any day - uni writing I suck at!!
kristy_lily
24-03-2007, 15:58
Hi Guys :smiliedance:
Well, I've just found out from the Uni of SA that I start my next course in May so I've been flat out trying to find the text books that I need. I looked on the Uni Books website and it's going to cost me $500 for my books for the rest of the year :thumbsdown:
Luckily I found them on the textbook exchange website for $180 so thats a huge saving and then I can always sell them when i've finished because I'm very doubtful that I'll need them again!
If anyone ever wants to chat I'm on MSN: kristy.arnol@hotmail.com or my personal email is: karnol@bigpond.com
Hope everyone is studying hard (like me :laughing:) and going well with everything.
Bye For Now,
Kristy :wave:
Hey everyone
Not going too bad here, finished part 1&2 of an assignment that is due on Monday, have another assignment due the Monday after that, am trying to get ahead with my readings and things so i can concentrate on my assignments. Fingers crossed it all goes ok and i get through it all.
Goodluck everyone!
she_rambles
29-03-2007, 08:59
Hi everyone,
I'm a single mum and I'm studying freelance writing and journalism, plus I'm doing a TESOL diploma, obviously both are correspondence! I have five years to do the freelance writing course but I'm about two assignments and an exam away from finishing (as it's correspondence I was able to set my own pace and flew through most of it in the weeks before my son was born) ... but stressing over the TESOL diploma as I only get two years to do it and I just can't motivate myself to work on it! I've got a year and a half left, but at the rate I'm going, pretty worried I won't get it done!
I guess I'm lucky I was able to do my Bachelor of Arts (I double majored in history and also did a year of honours, also history) before my son came along. I'd love to do a PhD but I think that'll just have to wait til bub is a lot older ... that'd be a really big time commitment and I still want to get some travelling in before I settle down for that task!
Welcome SR!
I have 5 weeks today until bub is due to come and still have 1 last assignment to do (only a 2000 worder though on health communications within a clincial setting). My ob told me my BP was up so hopefully bub doesnt decide to come early before this assignment is due!!!
Camille
she_rambles
29-03-2007, 10:39
Thanks Camille ... I think the surprise arrival of a baby is probably a good excuse for an extension!
Hokey Pokey
31-03-2007, 17:18
Hey all
Well I am not studying anymore, finished mine end of last year yayy!
I did teachers aide through external, at times it was a challenge and I just wanted to give it all in, but let me tell you, I am soooo glad and soo proud I stuck it out!! :yelclap:
Well done TSP!! You have given me inspiration to just keep at it, only 2000 words left and I can put my feet up (hopefully by the end of next week)!!:yes:
Congrats TSP, the feeling of accomplishment makes the hardest days so worth it!
Goodluck with your assignment Camille
My next assignment is due on Monday, finished it a couple of days ago, hope it's ok.
Getting there though, so hopefully it all turns out well.
ButterflyMama
01-04-2007, 09:34
Well done Kristy! That's a great achievement!
I've only got 2 and a bit weeks to go til I am set to pop and the last couple of weeks I have been tackling my study with gusto.. aiming to get as much done as possible while I have the chance..
Still 14 modules to go (out of 19, only began mid-Jan this year) but I'm getting there.. I have 2 years to do it, which includes 100 hours of prac that I am really looking forward to doing sometime next year..
I'm studying early childhood, btw..
Jessie
Goodluck Jessie! That's great determination to get it done before bubs makes an appearance! I will probably be pregnant next year and still try and study, so hopefully it goes ok :)
Hi all!
Great to hear that some of us have almost finished their degrees or are studying like mad to get them done before bubs comes along.
I'm studying BA(Library and Information Science) through Charles Sturt Uni. I've been doing it since 2004 and hope to complete it at the end of next year - all going to plan. My first idea was to finish my degree before having a child, but DH had other ideas so we ended up having DD. I half regret it now as I'm finding it really tough to find time to study and the motivation - as usually I'm so tired that I just feel like heading to bed.
That said, I've just finished a 2000wrd essay and have another one to write as both are due next week. I was aiming for a headstart but it didn't work out that way so I'm hoping I don't stress too much getting the next one's done - have another 3 to go before end of semester.
It's good to know that there are other mums out there plodding along with distance ed. and actually succeeding as at times I think it's all too hard.
YAYAYAY!!!:smiliedance: :yelclap: Finished off my final assignment, god it feels good!!! Now I can put my feet up and relax til baby comes!!!
Good luck to all externals studying this year, I will keep an eye on the thread, and post a picture when bub has come!!:angel:
Camille
she_rambles
03-04-2007, 08:01
Hi all!
I'm studying BA(Library and Information Science) through Charles Sturt Uni. I've been doing it since 2004 and hope to complete it at the end of next year - all going to plan. My first idea was to finish my degree before having a child, but DH had other ideas so we ended up having DD. I half regret it now as I'm finding it really tough to find time to study and the motivation - as usually I'm so tired that I just feel like heading to bed.
Hi Ponyboy ... out of interest, is that Library and Information Science like a one year addition to the standard BA, or something entirely different? A friend of mine did some sort of librarian study, but it was just a one year thing that he completed after he'd done his BA, and now he's getting oodles of money as a librarian! I've been thinking I wouldn't mind doing it as I already have my BA, and that one extra year would be far easier for me to cope with than going back and doing a PhD at the moment!
MCNmummyof2
03-04-2007, 09:14
Well I've pretty much finished my 3000 word essay!! Got it to 2999 words! Want to try and start/finish science today, then I have a linguistics quiz, then maths!! Ahh
wow, you ladies are fantastic. Such achievements!!!!
I thought id drop into this thread and pick your brains for advice, if thats ok. I have a bit of a challenge on my hands........
Ok, so....im a sole parent of one and im wanting to take up study in the field of Holistic Counselling. The college that i want to study through (Nature Care College - St Leonards) offer the certificate and the diploma, however, they dont offer it external. Only part time or full time.
Thats my delima, i cant attend the college for actual classes (although i would really love to) in the day as i have to work part time and already have dd in preschool for those days and I definately cant get there at night.
What do I do????? All i want to do is this course and get ahead!!!! But how do i do that when i cant do it external????:(
Totally lost on this one:confused: :confused:
Any help/suggestions will be very grately appreciated.
Hey babyboo, seems your options are kinda limited at the moment. Is there any other course you could do that is similar that does it externally? That's what i'd be looking into. Sorry, can't help much.
Congrats guys on getting your assignments done. Camille, wow congrats and now you can take it easy for a few weeks till bubs is here!
I got another section of an assignment due in 2 weeks and a major assignment due at the end of the month. So far so good. Pretty much have read all my readings and study guide for 2 subjects, and nearly finished it for the 3rd, so wanna get that out of the way and concentrate on the assignments.
Goodluck guys, you are all doing so great and definately great to see others motivated to get their studying done! :D
Hi Ponyboy ... out of interest, is that Library and Information Science like a one year addition to the standard BA, or something entirely different?
Hi she_rambles! :wave: The course I'm doing is actually a BA as I have only done an Advanced Diploma previously. However, if you have completed a BA then there are 1 year Grad Dip (full time) or 2 year Masters (full time) courses you can do in librarianship to become a librarian.
Check out: http://alia.org.au/education/courses/librarianship.html for more info!! :)
And as for earning lots of money - it depends on the employer you are working for as to what rate of pay you get.
she_rambles
04-04-2007, 22:07
Thanks for that info, Ponyboy! I'm going to have a look at that first thing tomorrow morning ... probably can't do anything about it any time soon as I've got two other courses to finish first. One thing at a time! But it gives me some options to look at when I'm done. :D
Ok.....so, ive since discovered that im unable to do the Holistic Counselling course i wanted to do.....well, untill i can afford to attend the college on a daily basis anyway.
so.....im now wondering if any of you guys are studying psychology. This may be an area that I could start with.
As a sole parent I know i get free study through OTEN/TAFE, but not sure on concession through other institutions and I dont think tafe offers this.
Can anyone offer any suggestions on this one????
MCNmummyof2
09-04-2007, 11:38
Health care card wont usually get u a concession on anything other than tafe. I'm pretty sure psychology would be a uni degree, and you would be eligible for hecs (so that you repay them once your income hits x amount)
I agree with MCNmummy, but also when i looked into doing psychology it's normally an internal course, it isn't offered externally as far as i'm aware, so you'd have to think about that too.
How is everyone's studying going?
Got an assignment due on Monday and also i just got my marks back from another assignment and i got a credit, so am very stoked with that!
Phew! Just finished (well the draft anyway) another assignment. Now just getting my "editor" to have a read through it. It's due next Sunday but I'd like to have it gone so I can start concentrating on the next lot - another is due on Wednesday but I've pretty much finished it.
I find sometimes it's best just to submit them once you feel they are done rather than sitting on them and continually making little changes that probably won't influence the mark you get in any way!!
Will be really dropping my expectations this year (you are talking to a closet over achiever) and be happy with passes rather than distinctions as I just don't think I'm capable (due to time constraints and "mummy brain") of actually producing distinction grade assignments!! :)
Phew! Just finished (well the draft anyway) another assignment. Now just getting my "editor" to have a read through it. It's due next Sunday but I'd like to have it gone so I can start concentrating on the next lot - another is due on Wednesday but I've pretty much finished it.
I find sometimes it's best just to submit them once you feel they are done rather than sitting on them and continually making little changes that probably won't influence the mark you get in any way!!
Will be really dropping my expectations this year (you are talking to a closet over achiever) and be happy with passes rather than distinctions as I just don't think I'm capable (due to time constraints and "mummy brain") of actually producing distinction grade assignments!! :)
I know what you mean, i would love to get it perfect, but now i have learnt that to just submit the best i can and get it out of the way and concentrate on the next thing. Someone once told me it's not the A, B's and C's that count, it's the P's for Pass!! :D
Goodluck hun. I am just researching databases at the moment, very boring! lol
BlueEyedGirl
10-04-2007, 00:39
Like the name change "V8":thumbsup:
I just checked my last online quiz score and got 80%:smiliedance:
I too am dropping my 'over achiever' status, cause there are not enough hours in the day!!
I just had half a week 'break', and feel so very refreshed! Am now ready and rareing (sp?? ) to go - looking forward to the school holidays as my sisters and mum are home and I can maybe get some solid hours of work done:fingerscrossed: (Although, I'll probably miss DD too much:o )
Hope everyone enjoys the break!!
Ok....ive found a couple of places that do psychology external (universities), but they are very very long courses.
The Bachelor of Psych take 8yrs part time/external :eek: omg, i'll be 38 by the time im done.
Looks like im going to have to keep looking. oh and I may of found another place that does Dip in Holistic Counselling external :fingerscrossed: but I think its expensive - need to look into it more.
getting there.....pays to research eh :yes:
Like the name change "V8":thumbsup:
I just checked my last online quiz score and got 80%:smiliedance:
I too am dropping my 'over achiever' status, cause there are not enough hours in the day!!
I just had half a week 'break', and feel so very refreshed! Am now ready and rareing (sp?? ) to go - looking forward to the school holidays as my sisters and mum are home and I can maybe get some solid hours of work done:fingerscrossed: (Although, I'll probably miss DD too much:o )
Hope everyone enjoys the break!!
Well done Rachel!! And thanks i like my new name change too
I had a few days break too, yesterday and today i have been researching my a$$ off, so now that i think i have the info i can get stuck into writing my assignment. Hopefully it goes ok. Feels so great to be accomplishing something!
Goodluck Babyboo finding something that suits you.
ButterflyMama
12-04-2007, 13:21
Yay! I just finished another module and I have the assignment all printed out, stamped and enveloped ready to be sent off. 6 down, 13 to go! :smiliedance:
Yay! I just finished another module and I have the assignment all printed out, stamped and enveloped ready to be sent off. 6 down, 13 to go! :smiliedance:
Good on you hun, specially as you are about to pop in a week or so! lol
ButterflyMama
12-04-2007, 13:41
Good on you hun, specially as you are about to pop in a week or so! lol
LOL I know.. I figure I'll do as much as I can in (tiny) space of time that I have..
Keeps my mind from wondering about when the bloomin' hell she's gonna come out lol I'm convinced I'll go overdue.. :rolleyes:
How's your study going?
First 2 assignments done (with child) submitted. Will be interested to see how I go.
Noted that when I was heavily pregnant and writing assignments I wrote very concise and got better marks.
Prior to pregnancy I had issues with word limits.
Now I have issues getting words out :laughing:
michelle21
13-04-2007, 18:27
Hi Anyone studing Bachelor of Education Externally in this thread? Im on a hunt :detective: haha
Hey All
Well my second rough draft is done for my assignment due on Monday, getting my sis to proofread it later. But i hope i go ok, it was really hard to answer everything concisely with only a 700 word limit, i had 1500 words then had to cull it heaps! It's hard to express everything in such a short amount of words, so i am hoping that i have covered everthing. It's pretty much done now, so i just have to put it out of my mind and concentrate on the next assignment that is due at the end of the month and then another 3 to go after that!
Aaaarrrrrggghhhh, why did we decide to do this?? hehe!
BlueEyedGirl
19-04-2007, 14:34
Aaaarrrrrggghhhh, why did we decide to do this?? hehe!
I keep having the same thoughts!!
I keep thinking 'maybe I should just put it off until DD is at school, and I can then go to uni and hopefully not stress as much
BUT
on the other hand, if I do it all now, we will be set up for her schooling - no part-time job through school holidays to make ends meet, no vacational care for DD:ecomcity:
Its just an endless cycle going through my head!!
I have 3 assessments due in May (I think:o ) and an exam in June!!
BlueEyedGirl
19-04-2007, 16:11
I have 3 assessments due in May (I think ) and an exam in June!!
Okay, so I lied :p I have 2 due in May, and one in June and the exam:cool:
Oh and I just received my first assessment back (science) and I got a credit:smiliedance: At least its not a fail:laughing:
Yay Blueeyedgirl, congrats on the Credit!!
I got 3 assignments due one week after the other, the first is due next week, then i have a few questions that need to be answered online and 2 exams in June. Holy Moly, it's really crunch time!
How do you guys stay motivated?? I seem to just keep procrastinating and wondering why i'm doing this??
Hi guys,
Firstly - Michelle, I am doing a Bachelor of education externally, its run through JCU. So far I am doing just one unit, an elective and its not very supportive, just its not through the education unit.
I am starting to worry about next semester, I will potentially have 2 very hard units, and 2 major exmas, (45 and 40%). The problem is we are moving around the same time so worried about time management.
I am studying part time, so it means I will have either 8 or 9 years of study, is anyone in the same boat? I just could not handle full time uni and the boys. So V8, I understand your thoughts about 'why am i doing this'!!!
Well done on all the good marks. I have completed 4 assignments and have not heard back yet! Tutor is useless.
Anyway, enough ramblings from me, hope your all coping alright.
Hi Girls!
I'm new to this thread but not new to external studying. Just before Christmas I finished my Cert 4 in Business Management (Human Resources) after two years. It was tricky with three kids and being pregnant with one, then a bad health time after her birth, but I feel really pleased with myself for finally finishing it! I got I think 5 distinctions, and 7 credits. I go down to Sydney on Friday for the graduation ceremony. It's through OTEN.
I've now just enrolled in Cert 3 Business Admin. It's a step down from what I've just done but is more general in business stuff. I used to work in business admin but finished just as they were introducing the BAS system, so I need to learn all that part.
I should get my first modules early next week- I can't wait to get started!
Good luck to everyone studying with little kids! It is hard to do but just SO rewarding when you get those good grades and your certificates!
x Kate
Hi Michelle!
yes I am :) early education however.. and it's onwards fromt he diploma, so only another 2 years! (eep!) Am waiting on my first two assignments back, very tentatively... i better pass, I have a job riding on it! I currently work full time in a babies room, however may be moving into the kinder teacher role.... would not look good if i fail! no pressure! ahhhhh
Laura
kristy_lily
26-04-2007, 07:56
Hi Guys,
How's everyone's study going? Mine is pretty average at the moment. had another online exam and got 60 out of 100 which wasn't too bad considering I never had a chance to go over my notes!
DP's back at work and doing long hours and the kids have had gastro and now Lily's teething...again! so i haven't had much time to study :(
I start my new course in May (BA in Indigenous Studies) so I'll be doing 4 unit per study period which I'm not looking forward to!
I ended up booking Lily into day care for an extra day a week so I can spend one day cooking and cleaning and the other one studying!
Hope everyone is going well.
Talk soon,
Kristy :wave:
I have two 50% assignments looming and I have not started on either of them. I just cannot find any time to sit down and study, except for times when my sleep deprivation makes it impossible for me to concentrate!
The good news is that I got my first assignment back and I did well. This is a ray of hope for me.
Angelmist♥
11-05-2007, 13:39
Hi guys:wave:
I was wondering if I could join in? I've just been accepted into CQU to do the STEPS course externally.I shocked myself and got 20/20 for my maths assessment!I start on June 4th then next year am hoping to start my Bachelor of Social Work.
Are you guys studying full-time?The Bachelor is 4yrs full-time external.Just wondering how 'full-on' actual full- time study is:laughing:
I'll be finishing the year that DD starts grade 1 so it's good motivation really!
Hey Angelmist congratulations on getting a 20 out of 20 that's awesome.
Full time study is hard externally, depending on what you are doing i guess. But good luck with it!
I just got an assigment back and passed! Hooray, i got a 24 out of 30, so i got 80% which is a distinction, totally stoked!
MCNmummyof2
12-05-2007, 08:21
I find full time study really depends on the units you get. I was doing 4 units, and I dropped down to three. 2 of the units Ive got - a couple of hours a week is fine. I got a pass and a credit for those two. And the other unit I was spending hours a day - easily 2-3 hours every day, and still I only got a pass. I guess if you want to get better marks, you should spend a bit more time on it, but hey ps get degrees!
Hi Angelmist,
I am studying externally for a Bachelor of Social Work ATM. I am part-time. So far I have only done the theory subjects. Next year I will do my 3rd year placement (70 full time days) which will be hard but at least no studying at the same time!! It'll be like having a job except no payment received.
Apparently the lecturers figure that 1-2 hours a day is enough to get you through, if studying full-time. I haven't done that consistently, I've not studied at all for weeks and then in a panic spent late nights doing the assignments. For one subject the assignment took me only 2 days and I received 68% and I literally haven't given that subject any more time than that! The other was more challenging, I spent 2 weeks doing the assignment but got 80% so obviously more time=better marks in my case!
Angelmist♥
17-05-2007, 21:46
Thanks heaps guys for answering me!
V8 congrats on the distinction:yelclap:Well done!
chant- Wow, 1-2hrs a day...I actually thought it would be more than that!I'm a bit of a night-owl so most nights I can fit that in:fingerscrossed:!How long does the Bachelor take part-time?
:wave: Can I join?
I do a Bachelor of Accounting full time externally from CQU (live in Mackay). Must say it is pretty interesting with a near 5 month old! :laughing:
I will finish my first year at the end of this semester, and at the end of the year will be halfway through. It is a 3 year degree.
Going pretty well at the moment. Just finished doing a huge assignment for one of my computing subjects, just glad it's finished.
Thanks Angelmist :D
Hey Silvana, welcome to our thread. Full time study with a 5 month old! Good on you hun, i couldn't fathom studying until Josh was 12 months old, coping well now that he is older too. But will also probably put off studying again to have baby number 2 next year. :fingerscrossed: You can always drop down to part-time aswell if you need to. Goodluck with your first semester :D
Thanks V8. Congrats on your distinction :smiliedance:
Angelmist♥
21-05-2007, 22:31
Wow Silvana!A 5mth old :laughing: I haven't even started yet and I'm worrying how I'll handle it with an 18mth old.
Good on you:thumbsup:
It does sound crazy doesn't it! I even have her by myself for four days while my husband works away in the mines. Decided to put her into childcare for one day a week. Would be good for her (and me) and I could get a lot done.:fingerscrossed:
ButterflyMama
25-05-2007, 09:38
Hey guys..
I'm still here.. still studying.. not managing to get much done with a 3 week old, but I'm trying.. won't be too tough on myself, though..
Welcome, Silvana! :wave:
Jessie
Hey Jessie :wave:
What are you studying?
How's the studying going ladies?
MissBehave, wow thought you'd be having a break from studying with bubs arrival! :D Good on you hun!
I am finishing off my last assessment task, it's really draining! Need to finish it tonight as it has to be handed in 9am tomorrow which is annoying, wish we had the whole day to do it.
But after that i have 2 exams then i'm finished! Can't wait! Well that is till next semester anyways! lol
kristy_lily
30-05-2007, 15:19
WOOHOO!!
:smiliedance:
I have finished my study for SP1...done all my exams and got pretty good marks even though I didn't have much time to study.
Getting organised for SP2 which started on Monday (28/05/07) but I'm still waiting on text books :banghead: Don't know how I'm going to go this time around, I'm stuck doing two research courses and one on info tech. The computer part doesn't worry me but I have no idea about doing a research report or data analysis... thank god my sister knows about that sort of stuff so I can get some pointers off her!!
Hope everyone is going well with their study and not stressing out too much.
Talk soon,
Kristy :wave:
Well semester 1 is almost over. Have one more assignment due next week and then I can concentrate on my scholarship report and presentation - eep!!!
This assignment could be really fun if I had more time to do it - had another big assignment due on the weekend so only could concentrate on one at a time. This assignment involves planning and designing a library space for a new service. I had conjured up images of floor plans, paint colour samples, cut outs from library furniture suppliers etc etc. But alas, I really don't think I will have the time to go that extravigant (sp. - it's late my brain is slowing down). Oh well, as long as I pass (I keep telling myself but disappointment does come when I get below my usual standard - have to remember I have a one year old distracting me now!! - plus casual work - plus scholarship - plus playgroup - etc etc).
So how is everyone else coped with this semester and what are you all going to do to celebrate?? I hope to catch up on some leisure reading and my favourite tv programs and of course bubhub (have been AWOL for sometime now). And of course, fan fic and investigate some Library 2.0 stuff..... the list goes on!!
HI studying parents!
I studied externally too, and come out with a teaching degree. Now considering my masters..not sure if I could concentrate with bubba though. If anyone is studying education and wants any help drop me a pm.
Good luck in end of semesters all!!
Kirsty
Hey guys
Been going well, finished all my assignments and pretty confident that i passed! I just have two exams later this month. Feels weird not having to study or have deadlines at the moment, i'm just enjoying not having anything to do! Goodluck with next semester everyone!
Yay I finally submitted my last assignment for the semester!!! :)
Now on to finishing my scholarship report and presentation before next semester starts and also spending heaps more time with my DD who I had been neglecting a little lately due to burying my head in textbooks etc.
Only another year and half till I finish my degree - can't wait till it's over - then what will I do with myself.......
.....
just kidding!!! :laughing:
I have my final exam on Friday! :smiliedance:
But I have a big vent. I just got my textbook list, and I am looking at $750! :eek: :mad:
This really makes me angry. How the hell do they expect students to come up with that much money?
PunkyDiva
13-06-2007, 14:02
Just wanted to send :hugs: and congrats or :fingerscrossed: on your mid year assesmments and exams. Hopefully, no def, next year will see me immersed in study properly, just doing single units at the moment.
Haven't read all the posts but wondered if anyone on here doing B of Nursing externally??
xxxPD
BlueEyedGirl
20-06-2007, 15:11
YAY FOR HOLIDAYS!! :smiliedance:
So my first semester is offically over!!
Still waiting on 3 assessments, and the results on my lingusitics exam, but I am enjoying just being able to spend a whole day and night without worrying about uni work!!!
I have the reading list for next semester of linguistics, and am planning on making a start on getting my notes organised next week.
Hopefully I will be able to organise myself a little better this semester coming and wont be too stressed :fingerscrossed:
Hope everyone enjoys their break:thumbsup:
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