Getting the best out of the ‘new normal’

Preparation for Online Learning

COVID-19 took the majority of the world by surprise, we are really living in unprecedented times. While you may not have had a virtual learning experience in mind whilst applying, at Outliers we believe in making the best of the situation and we are here to help you. Here are a couple of tips we believe would make the learning experience way easier. 

1. Make your deskspace as comfortable as you can. Invest in an ergonomic back chair to reduce discomfort during learning/study periods. Ensure you also stand up and stretch from time to time during breaks. 
2. Schedule screen time, go for walks, try as much as possible to explore your new environment (while social distancing as well). A lot of attractions are still open and functioning (until 4/11/2020), it would be great idea to spend your weekends/free time immersing yourself in the new culture.
3. Prepare to expend more efforts in connecting with your classmates while online learning. Almost as important as getting a degree is the friendships and connections you’re able to make. Due to the minimal in-person interaction, a lot of context and random conversations that are usually the bedrock of school friendships will not happen. You’d have to be deliberate about reaching out to your colleagues and professors, and establishing lines of communication. Don’t be shy to make the first step, they’re all in the same shoes as you! You can schedule in person meetups with new friends/classmates (if you’re comfortable), for example go sightseeing together. 
4. It’s important to treat the learning experience as importantly as you would a physical one. Show up (on time), and participate. Most schools have a vast online library for your use, and you can request additional material should you need it. 

Getting winter ready

If you’ve lived most of your life in the tropics before coming to the UK (like me), getting used to the lower temperatures can be quite the hassle. 

Here are a few steps you can take to make it easier

1. Invest in a thick winter jacket – one with a hood would be preferable to protect against the strong winds of December – February. Multiple stores offer student discounts. 
2. Layer Up – Wearing multiple layers is a great way to ensure you remain warm, and most importantly protect your chest! (Pneumonia is very real). Whilst you can easily get brand new jumpers and sweaters at Primark, H&M etc, you can get high-quality pre-owned outfits from charity stores as well. 
3. Get thermals, scarves and thick socks – Thermals especially go a long way worn with layers. 
4. Get leather boots and gloves (for rainy days) 
5. If your home doesn’t have centralised heating, or if it does have and it’s rationed, you’d need to get a portable heater. 
6. Pay attention to weather forecasts before leaving the house. More often than not, this’ll determine how many layers you’ll put on.

We’ve put together a list of most common stores here. 

Settling into any new place can take a while – especially with the new way of learning. We’re here to help all the way, and are open to any questions you might have. Reach out to us on any of our social media handles or comment on this post and we’ll be in touch!

– written by Nnedi & Esther