By Staff Writer: Jamiliere Luranc Sweeney
Being a college student is demanding. Between attending lectures, completing assignments, meeting graduation requirements, and finding time to relax, the workload can feel overwhelming. Add a job into the mix and life gets even more complicated.
Throughout my college career, I’ve had to juggle school, work, and my personal life. At times, it has felt almost impossible to manage, but over the last year, I have adopted a few strategies that have made balancing everything much easier.
First, I started organizing everything in a planner and calendar. Due dates, work shifts, appointments, and events all go in both. I carry my planner everywhere so I can make sure I’m keeping on top of everything and the calendar is displayed at home so I know what is coming up.
Second, I’ve learned to ask for help when I need it. This could mean emailing instructors when I need clarification or extra time to complete an assignment, asking my partner to go grocery shopping so I can focus on homework or trading shifts with a coworker. Most times, people are understanding and willing to help you out when you’re feeling overwhelmed, you just have to ask.
Finally, I make taking care of myself a priority. It’s easy to burn out as a working student if you’re not making time for yourself. While my free time is limited, I make sure to incorporate self-care into every day. I call my mom on my walk home, listen to music or a podcast when I’m driving, take a short nap in between tasks, or treat myself to ice cream after a hard week. These small things make a huge difference in helping me stay motivated and healthy throughout the school year.