Every college or university hosts an organization fair that manages to suck in freshman and convince them to sign up for everything, including Young Democrats, Young Republicans and Students against Political Affiliation. Organizations like these, and others, are a wonderful way for new freshman to find their footing on campus and make friends who aren’t their roommate or Resident Assistant.
At first it will seem like a great idea to be part of ten different things, until the school year finally gets into full swing. The first two weeks of classes are generally the easiest, so it’s hard to imagine that someday you’ll have to choose between class and clubs (here’s a hint: class comes first). Socializing is important to a healthy, happy life, but school is just as important.
Org fairs: don’t let them suck you too far in.
However, no one should focus too much on school that they forget how to live. We’re all paying tuition and book costs to get a good education, but don’t let that stand in the way of you taking a chance. The key is balance.
Time-management is a word that gets thrown around all the time, but I’ll give you an inside secret: no one has mastered the art of this. Upperclassmen just tend to fake it a lot better. Here are some helpful hints to stay balanced and enjoy all of college:
1. Get a planner. Seriously, if you don’t have one, go to Walmart right now and buy one.
2. Don’t join too many things. You can’t fully put yourself into 10 different groups and classes while retaining your sanity. It just doesn’t happen.
3. Make designated study hours. This way you know that every Tuesday at noon you’ll study and finish your homework. Your grade will thank you at the end of the semester.
4. Prioritize. What’s the most important to you, cheerleading or volunteering? No matter what the answer, just ensure that those you care about the most get the most time.
5. Have fun. You’ll only be an undergrad for four years, so make the most of it. Don’t let the little things stress you out. In the words of Taylor Swift, “shake it off.”