I need to study for my 2 exams tomorrow. I need to attend a birthday party on Friday. I need to think about Halloween plans soon. I need to work on my project due next Tuesday. I need to go to that tailgate next weekend for the football game. I need to find time to sleep… wait, what?
While ridiculous, it’s the life of every college student everywhere.
College is a time where a person finds oneself. Personally, I’ve definitely changed a lot in the past couple of years. Not only are you hyper-focused on grades and academic achievements, but also you need to find time to go out and experience life, love, and loss. A person inevitably changes as they find ways to deal with everything life is throwing at them. Finding ways to balance the rigorous academic schoolwork, flourishing social life, and anxieties of the future all come to a head during the last two years of college. And sometimes, it seems like I’m the only one who can’t cope.
College culture is fast-paced and nearly cut-throat. Even from the early years of college, students are rushing for their next big internship or post-grad job, and you can’t blame them. College is meant to prepare students for their lives outside of school. Because of this competitive nature, it’s difficult to not compare yourself to other students and their progress. It’s difficult to not feel weighed down by all the burdens in your life — whether that be future-oriented stress or things happening right now. But this is your sign: Relax. Breathe.
Balance is key. It seems obvious, but it’s hard to fully commit to. It’s understandable to stress over a big test, but constantly cramming is going to wear you out. Remember to get a good amount of sleep before an exam. Your brain is not going to do you any justice running on no sleep. It’s understandable to be nervous over a recent argument you had with a friend. But take your time and think about the best course of action. Apologize if you need to, or don’t if you don’t need to! You must find time to understand yourself so you can navigate these all too familiar situations.
I still struggle with balancing everything, and I don’t believe I’ll have all the answers I need for a while. But, it’s all one step at a time. The more I live, the more I’ll learn.
Remember: you can do hard things!