The holidays are magical. Twinkling lights, family gatherings, festive cheer. But for General Assembly students and tech learners across the globe balancing studies, work, and personal commitments, the season can quickly become overwhelming. Whether you’re preparing for a coding bootcamp, upskilling with part-time classes, or exploring a complete career pivot into the world of tech, the demands of the holiday season add another layer of complexity to your already busy schedule.
At General Assembly, we understand that finding balance is key to thriving—not just during the holidays—but throughout your learning journey. That’s why we’re sharing practical tips to help you stay on top of your tech studies while enjoying the season’s celebrations.
Holiday survival tips for tech students
1. Master time management
Time is a precious commodity, especially when juggling multiple responsibilities (and extra-especially during the holidays). Here’s how to make every minute count:
- Block out study time: Dedicate specific blocks of time to study and treat them as non-negotiable. Use tools like Google Calendar or apps such as Notion and Todoist to stay organized.
- Set realistic goals: Break larger tasks into smaller, actionable steps. Completing a module or coding exercise in short bursts can feel more achievable.
- Plan ahead: Review deadlines and holiday plans early. By preparing in advance, you’ll avoid last-minute cramming and create space to be fully present for holiday traditions and commitments.
2. Prioritize your well-being
Your mental and physical health are critical to sustaining productivity in and out of the holidays. But because the holidays can add extra stress to the mix, incorporating self-care into your routine can make all the more difference.
- Take breaks: Step away from your screen to recharge. Go for a walk, enjoy a cup of tea, or spend quality time with loved ones.
- Practice mindfulness: Apps like Headspace or Calm can guide you through meditation, helping reduce stress and improve focus.
- Stay active: Physical activity of any kind is a great way to boost energy and combat the sluggishness that often comes with holiday indulgence.
3. Say “no” when needed
It’s tempting to say yes to every holiday invite, but overcommitting can derail your progress (and your work-life balance). Be selective about how you spend your time, and don’t be afraid to prioritize your studies when necessary. Remember, balance doesn’t mean doing everything—it means doing what matters most and what makes sense for you.
How General Assembly supports your journey
Throughout the holidays and every day, we’re committed to helping students thrive in their tech education, even during the busiest times of the year. Here’s how we make balancing work, life, and learning possible:
1. Flexible learning options
We offer a variety of course formats to fit your lifestyle. Whether you’re pursuing a full-time immersive tech bootcamp or part-time tech classes, our flexible options help you balance your commitments and find a schedule that works for you. Many of our courses are also available at a variety of time options across the globe, giving you the freedom to learn from wherever you are.
2. A supportive community
When you join GA, you’re not just enrolling in a course—you’re becoming part of a community. Connect with peers through our collaborative learning environment and network with industry professionals at our events. And if you need a little advice or encouragement, our 100,000-plus alumni across the globe—along with our real-world expert instructors—are here to support you.
3. Comprehensive career services
Our Career Services team provides invaluable guidance for students and graduates. From mock interviews to resume reviews, we equip you with the tools you need to succeed. They’re also here to help you develop soft skills to complement your hard skills, such as networking and following up after interviews, which are critical for career growth and maximizing your success as a GA grad.
Success stories: Thriving through the holidays
One of our GA grads, Sarah, knows all too well the challenges of balancing tech studies with a busy life. A mother of two and a career changer, Sarah enrolled in a part-time data analytics course at GA during the holiday season.
I thought it would be impossible to keep up with my studies, work, and family commitments,” Sarah shared. “But the support from my instructors and classmates made all the difference. The flexibility of the program allowed me to work at a doable pace, and GA’s community kept me motivated.
Today, Sarah works as a data analyst at a top tech company—a testament to what’s possible with the right support and mindset.
Tips from our experts
We asked a few GA instructors for their best advice on balancing studies during the holidays:
- “Consistency is key. Even if you only have 30 minutes a day, make it count by focusing on one specific task.”
- “Communicate with your family and friends about your goals. They’ll understand if you need to skip a few events to focus on your studies.”
- “Lean into the GA community. Your classmates and instructors are here to help, so don’t hesitate to reach out when you’re feeling stuck.”
Make this holiday season count
Balancing tech studies with life’s demands isn’t always easy, but with the right strategies and support, it’s entirely possible. As the holiday season unfolds, remember to stay organized, prioritize your well-being, and lean into the resources available to you.
And remember, at General Assembly, we’re here to help you achieve your goals—during the holidays and beyond. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to advance your career, explore our full-time and part-time courses, free tech skill classes and events, and career services to take the next step.