Developing a balanced academic life

Prof Ewe giving advice on academic balance

“Developing a Balanced Academic Life”, delivered by UTAR Vice-President for Internationalisation and Academic Development Prof Ir Dr Ewe Hong Tat, aimed to help students and academic staff to seek balance.

In order to optimise functioning, it is important that an individual find a balance between the roles they play. “Managing the demands of your job, classes, and personal life can be challenging, but you can be successful if you keep a few tips in mind,” Prof Ewe said.

“Stay focused on the task at hand. Many times we are overwhelmed with assignments and coursework; it is important to set priorities so that you won’t burn out,” he continued.

“Set a schedule; plan your time for study, friends, leisure, and other things that need to be done. Experiment with the best times for you to study. Also, figure out the best place to study where all of your materials are accessible so that you can truly focus,” Prof Ewe said.

Prof Ewe also advised students to pursue lifelong learning. “Websites like Khan Academy and Coursera are filled with an endless library of knowledge suitable for all people. So use your time wisely to learn and improve yourselves,” he said.

“Don’t focus on being a perfectionist — every individual has strengths and weaknesses — focus on the subjects that you’re good at, as well as identifying weaknesses in the ones that need improvement. The process of learning is more important than getting good grades,” Prof Ewe advised.

Quoting from the book, Our Underachieving Colleges by ex-Harvard University President Derek Bok, Prof Ewe says that learning to communicate and think is a priority in education. “Employers want people that they can work well with, as well as the ability to solve problems.”

“Formal education becomes less important as we get older. Instead, as studies show, graduates with soft skills, good career results, networking abilities, and good character get ahead of others. Most importantly, make sure to reward yourselves for the great work.”

This talk was organised by the Centre for Extension Education. As mentioned by Prof Ewe, links to Khan Academy and Coursera, can be found here, www.khanacademy.org, www.coursera.org.