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
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!
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>