How To Prioritise Self-Care as a Masters Student

Ah, the whirlwind that is life as a Masters student! You’re dealing with having a packed academic calendar, trying to fit in a new place and figuring out how to survive on instant noodles while writing a 5,000-word essay. Self-care isn’t just bubble baths and face masks, it’s keeping your wits about you while juggling deadlines, networking events and everything else. I’m sharing my journey sprinkled with tips I wish I had taken more seriously.

#1 The one(or two)-year marathon

First off, let’s acknowledge how intense Masters programmes are. For most of us, it’s just one year to learn, explore, make friends and figure out your career with the added pressure of deadlines.

What worked for me? Making the best use of the days I went in for lectures. If you’re only in two or three days a week, take those precious days seriously. I’d try to plan or finish my assignments on days I was going to campus for lectures. Then I could spend my days off and weekends guilt-free, binge-watching my new favourite show or diving into a hobby.

#2 Join a society

Your university experience isn’t just about getting a degree. One of the best things I did was join societies. At the University of Westminster, there were tonnes of student groups and they weren’t just for undergraduates! I joined the Art Society (and later became a committee member) because, as much as I loved my field of study (MSc Global Public Health Nutrition), I needed an escape.

Societies gave me a break from the academic grind. I’d just spend a couple of hours sketching and painting. Sometimes we’d grab coffee or dinner after our sessions and those moments felt like a breath of fresh air. Whether it’s sports, music, or a group dedicated to memes (yes, they exist!), find your niche. You’ll thank yourself later.

#3 Networking = Self care

Okay, I know this doesn’t scream ‘self-care’, but networking isn’t just about awkward handshakes and exchanging LinkedIn profiles. It’s about building connections that can make your journey less lonely. I’d often attend events or workshops hosted by my university, and while I initially felt out of place, I soon realized everyone else was just as nervous as I was.

Feeling like you’re part of a community is a form of self-care. So put yourself out there even if it feels a bit scary.

#4 Fuel your brain, not just your stomach

As a student, it’s easy to fall into the trap of eating what’s quick and inexpensive. But what you eat directly impacts how you feel and perform. I started paying more attention to my meals and it made a huge difference.

Simple swaps like adding vegetables to my pasta or opting for a protein-packed snack instead of sugary biscuits kept me energized. And no, I didn’t turn into a health guru overnight. It’s all about balance. Love pizza? Great, maybe pair it with a side salad. And don’t forget to drink water; hydration is key.

#5 Move your body

I have a confession; I’m not a gym person. But some form of movement is non-negotiable if you want to keep stress at bay. For me, it was walking. Living in London I could explore parks, wander through markets or just walk to clear my head. Find out what works for you. Whether it’s joining a university sports team, yoga or just dancing in your room.

#6 The magic of saying, “No”

Here’s something I wish someone had told me; you don’t have to do everything. It’s okay to say no to plans when you need a break. I often felt guilty about skipping events or declining invites but I soon realized it’s impossible to be everywhere and do everything.

Protect your time and energy. If you need a night in to recharge, take it. Your friends will understand.

#7 The little things matter

Self-care isn’t always about grand gestures. Sometimes it’s as simple as making your bed every morning, setting a mini goal for the day (maybe finally organising your lecture notes), treating yourself to something nice (a fancy latte, maybe!) or journaling.

These small acts can make a big difference!

Life as a Masters student can be unpredictable and a little chaotic. But it’s also an incredible opportunity to grow, learn, and discover what makes you happy. So, while it’s important to focus on your studies, don’t forget to let go a little. Go out for that spontaneous dinner, try something new, and most importantly, take care of yourself. You’ve got this!

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