Dear cherished readers and fellow learners,

As I write down the final entry on this blog of our learning adventure, a wave of gratitude and reflection washes over me. Week by week, you’ve joined me on a journey of highs, lows, and countless discoveries. Today, I say my farewells.

Looking back at the weeks that unfolded, I’m struck by the richness of the experience. From the challenges of routines and procrastination to the triumphs of newfound study strategies and learning strategies, each entry became a space to share and learn.

To you, my crewmates on this ship, thank you for sharing this adventure with me. Your presence turned a solitary exploration into a shared experience. The comments, messages, and shared anecdotes illuminated the path, turning this blog into a safe space for sharing.

In the middle of this goodbye letter, I must share a delightful revelation. Thanks to an email I received today from Gillian van der Ven, librarian at the Archer Library, I know now three new sources of entertainment media that are free for UofR students. As finals are just around the corner, these discoveries can offer a breath from the academic hustle.

As we part ways, let me leave you with a few parting words. Embrace the journey, relish the challenges, and celebrate the victories, big and small. Learning isn’t just about absorbing information; it’s about the transformation that happens within us, shaping us into more resilient, adaptable, and curious individuals.

Whether you’re a student navigating the academic seas, a lifelong learner exploring new realms, or someone stumbling upon this blog, may your curiosity never vanish, and may the spark of inspiration guide you through every learning maze.

As I close the book on this blog, I open my heart to new chapters. The learning adventure doesn’t end here; it merely takes a different form. I encourage you to embark on your quests, armed with the lessons we’ve shared and continue the pursuit of knowledge and growth.

In saying farewell, I want you to know that this isn’t a goodbye. It’s a “see you later” in the vast digital universe. Our paths may cross again, and when they do, I hope we can share stories of continued growth and learning.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Farewell, fellow learners, and may your educational adventures be filled with endless curiosity and boundless inspiration.

With gratitude,

Ben

How is it going my learning pals? This week I’m going to focus on ending intense study sessions with moments of pure relaxation. Join me as I show my way of blowing off steam and recharging my learning batteries through wholesome activities.

Let’s face it – studying marathons can be mentally straining. As the intensity of the coursework reached its peak, I found myself in need of an escape hatch, a way to shake off the academic stress and breathe in some fresh air.

Enter the simple yet profound act of going for a walk. The crisp fall air became my elixir of rejuvenation. Whether it was a short walk outside or a trip to the closest convenience store, those moments of movement cleared the mental fog and provided a fresh perspective.

Amidst the sea of textbooks, some social interaction is really helpful. Hanging out with friends became a beacon of joy, a reminder that life exists beyond the pages of my notes. Laughter, shared stories, and the warmth of companionship added vibrant colours to the sometimes monochrome world of academia.

DJ Jermbug is in the house!

As the sun set on study sessions, a different kind of adventure awaited in the virtual realm. Playing video games transformed into a therapeutic escape. The challenges within the game world provided a welcomed distraction, allowing my brain to shift gears and recharge for the next academic conquest.

It’s a bit messy but it feels like home 🙂

This week was a lesson in the art of balance. Wholesome activities weren’t just indulgences; they were necessities. They became the checkpoints in my learning journey, places to rest, rejuvenate, and gather the energy needed for the next step of the adventure.

As I closed the book this week, I realized that blowing off steam isn’t a luxury; it’s a lifeline. Wholesome activities – be it a walk, a laughter-filled evening with friends, or a gaming session – are the threads that weave the tapestry of a balanced, fulfilling learning experience. Let’s stick together in this learning journey, and as you already know, leave lots of love in the chatbox below!

Greetings, fellow learners and adventurers! The present week marks a milestone in my semester abroad saga. A semester abroad is like an endurance test in adaptability. As the weeks passed by, so did a transformation in the way I approached learning.

Enter YouTube, the unsung hero of my learning toolkit. Whether it’s breaking down complex concepts, offering alternative explanations, or providing real-world applications, YouTube has become my go-to guide. It’s like having a 24/7 tutor who never gets tired of answering my questions.

In this technological age, AI emerged as a powerful ally. Customized study plans, intelligent feedback, and the ability to adapt to my learning style – AI became the secret weapon in my arsenal. It’s not just about studying harder; it’s about studying smarter.

Approaching unfamiliar content used to feel like wandering through a dense fog. Now, armed with YouTube tutorials and AI-guided study sessions, the fog dissipates. Concepts that once seemed daunting now have a roadmap, and learning feels more like an exciting exploration than an intimidating task.

As these learning tools became integral to my routine, a newfound confidence blossomed. The semester abroad, once a sea of uncertainties, now feels like a conquerable landscape. It’s not just about surviving; it’s about thriving and enjoying the learning adventure.

This last week has been a revelation of growth and adaptability. The learning skills that have emerged are not just semester-specific; they are lifelong companions. YouTube and AI have been my fellows in the way I approach new content, providing me with the tools needed to navigate the academic terrain. And as always join me next week as we keep on navigating these seas, armed with our learning techniques and a hunger for more knowledge. And don’t forget to comment!

Good evening, fellow knowledge seekers! This week was pretty normal except for the urge to try new things, so I explored uncharted territories of learning strategies. Spoiler alert: not all strategies are created equal, but the journey itself is worth the trouble.

Ever get the feeling that your usual study routine is starting to resemble being in detention at the beginning of Breakfast Club? That was me this week. The need for a change was whispering in my ear– a thirst for fresh perspectives, and a sprinkle of motivation.

Determined to break free from the monotony, I decided to try out some new study techniques. From mind-mapping adventures to ambient sounds, each strategy became a brushstroke on the canvas of my learning experience.

I have already tried the Pomodoro technique in my first weeks of study, but I read online about Mind Mapping which can be done online. Armed with colors and creativity, I transformed dull notes into vibrant visual journeys. Mapping connections and concepts unleashed a new level of understanding and engagement.

Ever studied while surrounded by the sounds of a bustling café or a serene forest? I gave ambient sounds on this webpage a shot, and the results were surprisingly immersive. The hum of distant chatter or the rustling leaves became the background melody to my learning symphony.

Of course, not every strategy hit the bullseye. Some were more like trial-and-error misadventures. The key was to embrace the variety, recognizing that each technique contributed to the broader mosaic of my learning journey.

This week was made for experimentation. Some techniques worked for my routine, while others bid a hasty retreat. Join me next week as I reflect on the hits, misses, and the ongoing quest to hit the nail with what suits me best. And as always, leave your comments below!

Hey, y’all! This week brought a new challenge into the arena – the Fall season. With shorter days and the bite of coldness keeping me indoors, I found myself wrestling with sleep patterns that were as elusive as my cat chasing birds. But fear not, for every challenge comes with a solution, and this week, I found mine.

Kitty is always seeking for birds.

As the days grew shorter and the temperature dropped, so did the quality of my sleep. It felt like my internal clock was doing a tap dance routine, completely out of sync with my usual rhythm. The result? Foggy mornings, lethargic afternoons, and a learning curve that felt steeper than ever.

With the outside world turning into a chilly playground, I found myself spending more time indoors. While cozy blankets and hot cocoa were tempting, the impact on my sleep was undeniable. It became a puzzle – how to balance the comfort of indoor warmth with the need for restorative sleep?

Enter the surprising fix I found in an online source: a digital detox at night. The glow of screens, whether from laptops, TVs, or phones, had become a constant companion during my pre-bedtime routine. Little did I know, this nighttime screen binge was damaging my sleep quality.

Armed with determination, I declared war on nighttime screens. Instead of diving into the blue light abyss, I opted for old-school activities – reading a physical book, journaling, or simply basking in the soft glow of a lamp. The transition was tough, but the results were worth it.

With reduced screen time at night, the sleep gods finally smiled upon me. My nights became more restful, my mornings more energized, and my learning endeavors received a well-deserved boost. Turns out, a simple adjustment in bedtime habits could make all the difference.

This week was a lesson in adaptability. The Fall season meant a challenge for my sleep patterns, but by identifying what caused it and taking action, I regained control. Join me next week as I explore more strategies to conquer the challenges of the learning journey, armed with newfound wisdom and a commitment to restful nights.

Hey, learning squad! This last week was something. From falling into the procrastination black hole to a weekend of partying hard, this week had it all. Buckle up as we embark on this adventure with its highs, lows, and the art of bouncing back.

Ever feel like you’re sliding down a slippery slope, watching deadlines approach like an unstoppable train? Yeah, that was my week in a nutshell. Procrastination became my unwelcome companion, whispering sweet excuses as I got off the study track. It happens to the best of us, right?

In a desperate attempt to shake off the procrastination blues, I unwittingly declared the weekend a “no-study zone.” Little did I know, that declaration would turn into an invitation to not-so-healthy activities. The books collected dust while I danced away the stress, embracing the freedom of the moment.

A beautiful painting I found at a local bar.

As the weekend hype faded away, reality hit like a shit-ton of bricks (excuse my French). The aftereffects of the party echoed in my sleep-deprived eyes and a mood that resembled a grumpy old man. Pro tip: never underestimate the power of a dance floor and its consequences on your study game.

Yet, amidst the chaos, a strange sense of confidence emerged. I realized this detour into procrastination and partying was an obstacle to the learning race, not a wall. Sure, it messed with my sleep and mood for a couple of days, but as I read in a blog online, I knew it wouldn’t define my overall performance.

This week taught me that setbacks are inevitable. Procrastination and party detours may pack a punch, but they don’t have to be game-changers. Instead, they become opportunities to reassess, recalibrate, and come back stronger.

As more weeks fade into the rearview mirror, I’m taking the lessons with me. Procrastination happens, and parties are a blast, but the key is not to let them dictate the narrative. Join me next week as I embark on a renewed journey, armed with newfound resilience and a determination to conquer the learning curve, one adventure at a time.

Hey, learning warriors! This week threw me into the ultimate balancing act – between pumping iron at the gym, conquering homework mountains, maintaining friendships, and being there for my girlfriend halfway across the world. Spoiler alert: it’s not as glamorous as it sounds. Let me tell you about the struggle and triumph of finding equilibrium.

Ever try running on a treadmill while pondering the mysteries of terrorism throughout the nineteenth century? It’s a special kind of multitasking challenge. This week, the gym became my battleground for physical strength and mental acrobatics. Balancing the quest for gains with the demands of academia was like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded.

As assignments piled up, I found myself juggling due dates like a circus performer with flaming torches. Each task asks for attention, demanding to be the stars of the show. Prioritization became the name of the game – a dance of deciding what needed immediate attention and what could wait for the grand finale.

Amidst the chaos, I realized friendships needed intentional effort. Late-night study sessions turned into laughter-filled pool breaks. It became about quality over quantity, squeezing meaningful connections into the spaces between deadlines and dumbbell curls.

Me playing pool with the boys

Add a sprinkle of long-distance relationship challenges, and the balancing act reached a new level. My girlfriend, patiently waiting for a text on the other side of the world, deserved my time and attention. Balancing the present with the future, I learned the delicate art of being present in every conversation, even with thousands of kilometers between us.

Week six was a crash course in the art of prioritization. Energy levels became my currency, and time turned into a precious commodity. Each decision felt like placing a bet – which task deserved the biggest slice of the pie? The struggle was real, but so was the satisfaction of making it all work.

Balancing the demands of the gym, homework, friendships, and a long-distance relationship felt like walking a tightrope without a safety net. Yet, in the midst of the chaos, I discovered the power of prioritization and the resilience that comes with juggling life’s many facets. Join me next week as I continue the adventure, mastering the art of balance one day at a time.

Hey, fellow learners! Week five marked a turning point in my learning journey. After wrestling with distractions and dancing with procrastination, I decided it was time to do something about it. This week was all about embracing habits that not only make me a better student, but also a healthier, happier version of myself.

Let’s talk about the secret hero of learning – sleep. I used to think burning the midnight oil was the secret to success, but boy, was I wrong. This week, I made a pact with my bed, and the results were mind-blowing. Quality sleep isn’t just a luxury; it’s a game-changer.

Say goodbye to the study snacks of champions (meaning: endless bags of chips). I embarked on a mission to fuel my brain with the good stuff. Leafy greens, brain-boosting dark chocolate, and the occasional protein shake – who knew that eating well could taste so good and enhance my learning quality?

One of my scrumptious salads

Full disclosure: I’ve had a complicated relationship with the gym. But this week, I decided to give it another shot. Turns out, the treadmill is a fantastic place for brainstorming, and lifting weights is the perfect antidote to study stress. Who knew that breaking a sweat could make me feel like a learning superhero?

💪💪💪

Incorporating these habits into my daily routine wasn’t just about checking boxes; it was about crafting a lifestyle that supports my learning goals. Waking up rested, eating mindfully, and getting my body moving – these simple acts became the pillars of my day.

As the week unfolded, I could feel the positive effects. My focus sharpened, my energy levels soared, and my enthusiasm for learning reached new heights. It turns out that being a better learner isn’t just about hitting the books; it’s about taking care of the body and mind that carry those books.

Week five was a revelation. By prioritizing sleep, revamping my diet, and embracing the gym life, I transformed not only my study habits but my entire approach to learning. Join me next week as I explore more strategies and continue this journey toward becoming the best version of myself, one healthy habit at a time. And don’t forget to leave a comment!

Hey, learning warriors! Welcome back to the rollercoaster ride of my learning journey. Week four was a real eye-opener, and not because of the best reasons ever. Nope, this week was all about wrestling with distractions, dancing with procrastination, and trying not to die by the study struggle.

Let’s be real – distractions are like sneaky ninjas that show up when you least expect them. One moment, I’m deep in the study zone, and the next, I’m in a YouTube rabbit hole, wondering how I got there. Social media, funny cat videos, playing hockey outside with the boys – you name it, I’ve succumbed to it.

Me doing anything but homework.

Procrastination, my old friend. It’s not that I enjoy waiting until the last minute; it just feels like my brain is playing a not-so-funny prank on me. Why start now when I can totally do it later? Spoiler alert: “later” doesn’t always go as planned.

Can we talk about the days when every inch of me rebels against the thought of opening a textbook? It’s like my brain throws a party, celebrating the art of not being there. Overcoming that resistance feels like trying to move a mountain. Maybe a mountain range to be precise.

Despite the chaos of distractions and the procrastination dance, I’m learning a crucial lesson – it’s okay not to be perfect. Procrastination is something natural that has to be dealt with, so beating myself up over every pitfall doesn’t help. Instead, I’m trying a new dance move: the forgiveness ballet. Forgive, learn, and get back on that study horse.

Week four was a wild ride through the distraction jungle and the procrastination playground. But you know what? Embracing the messy moments is all part of the learning game. Next week, I’m gearing up to tackle these study struggles, armed with new strategies and a fresh perspective. Stick around as we turn the struggle into triumph, and as always, feel free to comment!

Hello everyone! In my journey to learn how to learn, the third week brought about a revelation that significantly impacted my ability to drive myself toward productivity. As someone who grapples with ADHD, finding strategies to maintain focus has been an ongoing challenge. However, I stumbled upon a game-changing realization that has been a beacon of productivity for me.

One of the key insights that emerged during this week was the profound impact of my surroundings on my ability to concentrate. As one of the sources I read on the internet said, choosing a good environment when studying is crucial to learning. Knowing that a cluttered and distracting environment can easily pull me away from tasks, I decided to experiment with my study environment. And the Archer Library became my favorite place.

I embarked on a mission to spend at least an hour at the Archer Library daily. The quietness, quality of light sources, and neatness of the environment just captivated me. By intentionally immersing myself in this conducive environment, I found that my ability to make meaningful progress on assignments was less painful.

Establishing a routine of visiting the library daily played a crucial role in training my mind to transition into a focused state. It wasn’t just about completing assignments but cultivating a habit of productive work. The consistent, dedicated hour at the library became a cornerstone of my daily routine, providing structure to my day and a clear signal to my brain that it was time to get to work.

As the third week unfolded, I found myself not just making progress on assignments but also fostering a sense of empowerment over my learning journey. The Archer Library, with its serene atmosphere, became a catalyst for my productivity. This week’s lesson was clear: by understanding and adapting to my own needs, I could create an environment that fosters focus, turning my daily tasks into meaningful accomplishments.

Join me next week as I dive further into the strategies and revelations that continue to shape my quest to learn how to learn. And please feel free to make comments, which are always welcomed and valued!

Designed by Minoru Yamasaki, the Archer Library was built in 1967, one of the first buildings on the Regina campus.