You Are Cordially Invited To…It may seem like a no-brainer, but getting the invite is the first step to mastering your weekly social schedule. When it comes to campus socials or frat parties, most casual invites are sent out via Facebook at least a week in advance. As soon as your newsfeed begins to clutter up with enticing raves, birthday parties, and theme socials, begin to prioritize and plan accordingly. Although multiple invites may be overwhelming, resist the urge to RSVP to every opportunity. If it feels like you may be tempted to overload your nights with events during a busy week, take the high road and disable your Facebook events for a few days. This will allow you to clear your head and put things into perspective for the next round of parties and socials.
Prioritize Accordingly
After nabbing numerous invites (and feeling immenselypopular, might we add!) comes the tricky part — saying “yay” or “nay” to events that may conflict with academic commitments. We sometimes have the worst habit of forgetting why we are in school in the first place — to educate ourselves! Although making new friends and memorable experiences is undoubtedly important, academics should always come first.
Boston College ’11 graduate Allison Lantero was all too aware of this when she had to pass on a huge sporting event during her junior year. “I remember not being able to road trip out to Notre Dame for our annual rival football game because I just had way too much work,” she said. “I worked all weekend, taking a short break to go to a friend’s house to watch the game on TV.” Although she missed out on a big social event, her diligence opened doors to even bigger experiences after a difficult semester. “I had a great time watching the game at my friend’s house and felt really productive,” she said. “Although that semester was rough, and at times felt like I had no life, it was totally worth it when I was able to study abroad in Venice.”
When prioritizing your social and academic commitments always weigh the pros and cons in list form before saying ‘yes’ to an invite. If some of your cons include points like ‘failing a test,’ ‘missing class,’ or ‘falling behind on work,’ it may in your best interest to cut your losses and catch up on work. Don’t sweat it, collegiettes™! There will always be the promise of a fun night in the future.
