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Plutarch, a Greek historian, once said, “The mind is not a vessel that needs filling, but wood that needs igniting.” If this year you have made the goal to further your education or to obtain your degree, here are a few tips to keep you headed in that direction.
Taking the Leap
Deciding to return to school is a big decision, which may fill up most of your future free time. It has the opportunity to change lives drastically.
“In today’s world, you need to have an education,” said Mark Rix, Education Service specialist. “We are here to help anyone get that education, no matter if it’s a spouse using the GI Bill or active duty member continuing school while working a full time job.”
Help Yourself
There are two types of learning styles; active and electronic. Active or classroom learning includes participating with others in a group atmosphere or interactive learning environment; this focuses better on individual learning traits. On the other hand, online courses better fit the busy lifestyle or social restraints that arise while leading the military lifestyle. These are beneficial to working environments or individuals restricted by location.
Knowing your style of study is very constructive, being aware of whether you’re a verbal, written or oral learner can help to enhance learning techniques. Varying your course load is also very important, be sure to include classes you enjoy rather than just fulfilling mandatory credits.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Tutors are available through most online universities, as well as a variety of referred sites. If you need help obtaining sources or just need help understanding a concept, help yourself by reaching out for help.
Help Others Succeed
The Ramstein Education center and KMC military members have joined together recently to create a new program in which peer mentoring is encouraged to help others as they work toward their Community College of the Air Force degree.
“The peer mentoring program is always looking for people who have already earned their CCAF, those who are willing to guide and mentor others,” said Michael Jones, education service specialist. “We need people who have already struggled through obtaining their degree and are willing to guide, coach and encourage others as they do the same.”
Learn the Basics of Studying
Distractions come in all different shapes and sizes, especially when it’s time to study. So stick with the basics and get the most out of your time.
- Atmosphere: create a peaceful studying environment in which you can step away and focus all your attention on the material at hand.
- Scheduling your time: by setting a set time apart from your busy day and dedicate it to studying you are more likely to get in the habit of it and eventually succeed.
- Reward yourself: Rewarding yourself after a set time of studying will increase your productivity. Operant conditioning states that when you use specific rewards for specific achievements more are willing to do the unfavorable task.
Keep Motivated
Motivation is an important factor in sticking to a routine, but can be the hardest to keep up. Students who have an interest in learning, a value of education and a confidence in their own capabilities and attributes tend to stay motivated and internalize values.
“The hardest part of earning your degree is staying motivated,” said Jones. “If you have a little bit of motivation, you can do anything”
(Editor’s note: This is the third story in a three-part series on New Year’s resolutions at Ramstein.)
