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For students studying regionally, the daily rhythm can get tight. Lectures, tutorials, assignments, work-shifts and the normal demands of life… all without the big-city convenience. Here’s how to keep balance, get support and look after yourself.
1. Plan your time clearly
Start each week by putting everything into a simple schedule. Include your classes, study blocks, part-time work shifts, chores, downtime and regular breaks. A clear plan helps you spot where things overlap or where you’re short on energy. It gives structure so you can resist the urge to skip breaks or push yourself to burn out.
2. Use the Regional University Study Hubs (RUSHs) in WA
There are a variety of study hubs in regional areas across Western Australia. These hubs give you a quiet place to work, peer support and access to digital tools and online learning resources. They also reduce long commutes or the isolation you might feel working from home. If you haven’t already scoped out your closest hub, take take a look now. Use it for classes, group study or to connect with other students in your position.
3. Work realistically
We know that many students don’t have the option of cutting back on work hours with the rising cost of living. If you need to work long shifts, try to balance them as best you can. Where possible, spread your hours across the week so they don’t clash with critical study times. If a full day off isn’t realistic, aim for smaller pockets of rest to recharge between shifts and classes. Even short breaks matter. Your brain needs recovery time to stay sharp.
4. Keep it social (on purpose)
Remote study can feel isolating. Block out time to catch up with your friends, book in a zoom with your classmates or schedule in time with your family. Even short video chats or coffee meetups at one of the study hubs count. These moments refresh your headspace, remind you that you’re connected and help you feel anchored when the routine gets heavy.
5. Look after your physical health
Eating regularly and sleeping enough often fall apart when things get busy. Don’t skip breakfast or lunch; pack simple meals or snacks in advance if needed. Stick with one wake-up time even when you’re studying at home. It helps with your energy, focus and mood.
6. Build breaks into your study schedule
Instead of marathon study sessions, use short breaks every 45–60 minutes. A five-minute stretch, a short walk, or just stepping outside can recharge your brain more than sitting for hours. When the day feels long, pacing yourself is key.
7. Use Curtin’s wellbeing support
Our Student Wellbeing Advisory Service is available even if you’re studying regionally. If you’re struggling with a study or personal issue, or you just don’t know where to go or who to ask, our Student Wellbeing Advisors can help. It’s a free and confidential service for all Curtin students.
Don’t wait for burnout to kick in. Reach out early. It’s smart and shows you’re managing your wellbeing.
8. Reflect and adjust weekly
At the end of each week, take ten minutes to reflect on the week that was and how you’re feeling. Ask yourself: What worked? What didn’t? Did you get enough rest? Was your study time effective? Use that insight to adjust next week’s plan. This keeps you in charge, not on the back foot.
Balancing study, work, and life can be challenging for even the most well-adjusted students. With visible structure, consistent self-care and use of the regional study hubs and wellbeing support available, you can stay on track without sacrificing your health or grades. You’ve got this!
