Nads
How do I balance a social life as a college student?
I'm a full time student and it's really hard to keep my school, work and social life balance. If I'm not at school then I'm at work because I need to pay for school. But how can I also make time for friends? I work 2 jobs because the school I'm attending is pretty expensive. I only have a year and a half left but I feel like I'm distancing from my friends. What do I do? Any suggestions? #adultingstinks #wishitwassummer #needmorehoursintheday #school #work #life
2 answers
Rachel Resnick
Rachel’s Answer
You will need to focus on stress and time management. In order to manage stress you have to manage your time wisely. <span style="background-color: transparent;">You have to set a routine for yourself and stick to it for the most part. Once you get into the groove of a routine it will be much easier for you to manage your time and have enough time for everything you need to do (including relaxing). Make yourself to-do lists on a weekly basis, use Google calendar or a planner to keep track of events, deadlines, and due dates. In addition to setting a routine and sticking to it, plan out relaxing activities into your day. Or set aside a time, after everything is done for the day, that you can have "me" time. I have also personally found it essential to not only find time for myself but also make use of that time in a way that is best for me and my holistic wellness. I have found the HeadSpace app to be an essential tool in helping me relax and generally feel more relaxed throughout the day, Guided meditation, even if you have a busy schedule, will make you feel more at ease and relaxed throughout the day as a whole (not just when you have the time to relax and focus on that "me" time).</span>
<span style="background-color: transparent;">Set a routine.Use Google Calendar.Set aside Me TimeWrite weekly to-do lists and use a planner.Find a peaceful and restful activity that will help you feel relaxed.</span>
Yvonne Koh
Yvonne’s Answer
I am sorry to hear that you are struggling to achieve a balance between school, work and social life. Life can be pretty overwhelming sometimes. I was in your shoe about a year ago, and here are some things that I did that you might find helpful!
(1) Plan your schedule ahead! Besides adding your class schedule for the semester (including due dates for assignment/exam dates etc.) into my calendar, I also included ~0.5-1 hour time every other day of the week as my free time. During this time, I would call my friends/family, or even grab a quick coffee with my friends or something. When I plan ahead, it is easier for me to stick to my schedule and maintain a social life.
(2) I am not sure if you are currently living on your own, with your family or with roommates? I used to live with a couple of girls and we would try to make time to make/eat dinner together at least one night of the week. Also, we study together! We stayed focus when we study, and we will chat/hangout when we have our study break. Try to find a study group that works for you.
(3) Apply for scholarships! Scholarship may help ease a little financial burden off your shoulder. Also, always remember you can seek guidance and support from your parents/professional help on campus.
I hope this helps, take good care!