As the end of the spring semester approaches, the majority of college students find it difficult to have a healthy balance between meeting their academic responsibilities while maintaining a social life.
Lock Haven University (LHU) students expressed how complex managing their workload was on top of keeping in touch with others as the semester progressed, and shared tactics on how they maintained work-life balance in the midst of their busy schedules.
“I throw so much of my heart, soul and work into the Eagle Eye that I rarely find myself ‘relaxing,’” said Kerri Hoover, a senior communication student. “But the way that I do that is by socializing. When I feel like I need some personal time set aside to not focus on academics, I usually hang out with friends.”
Hoover stated that the best way she remains in contact with her friends is through daily texting, attending the same classes, and extracurricular activities. She believes that it is easier to keep in touch with her friends in her major compared to others because she is more likely to encounter them on campus.
Whitney Harshbarger, a junior communication student, shared that she keeps in contact with her friends and family via Facetime. Facetime is an Apple-exclusive video and audio chatting service that lets iPhone users communicate with each other. “Not only do you get to hear their voice but you get to see their face, which helps when I’m feeling homesick,” said Harshbarger.
The following list details several helpful tips on how to balance social life and academics.
Get a planner. Writing in a planner is a good study habit for students who struggle with time management. According to an article from Grand Canyon University, 65.1% of college students utilize a planner to manage their academic responsibilities.
Pick out a day early in the week to check out the professor’s class syllabus and write down each assignment that needs to be accomplished each day of the week. Planners help visualize one’s weekly schedule with tasks that need to be completed which will assist in coordinating free time with your friends.
Beware of burnout. Burnout is a form of severe exhaustion that a person experiences with prolonged periods of stress. Signs that a person suffers from burnout include mental and physical fatigue, dreading to complete work, irritability, and no time for non-related work things.
Being burnt out from the stress that comes with academic courses is a sign to prioritize relaxation; and the best way to do so is through socializing with friends and family. Set aside time to ease your own well-being by surrounding yourself with people that create a comfortable environment.
Learn to say no. While it is essential to socialize with friends, do not forget the main purpose of college: to learn. Good grades cannot be achieved by slacking off.
Setting a manageable priority level and dedication to studying and completing assignments should be the prime concern for college students. People who care about you will understand and respect your decision to prioritize school work rather than attending a social gathering. Be upfront and open about your schedule with others to spare scheduling issues and make your university experience as stress-free as possible.
For some students, balancing academic requirements with recreational activities can prove to be a challenge. Instead of resorting to being a lonely dorm hermit, communicate with friends effectively either in-person or digitally, and check your planner periodically to determine when to prioritize academics or having fun.
