Balance

      As the Fall semester starts I know that many students feel overwhelmed.  We are taking new classes, joining new organizations, and taking on different responsibilities.  I know that for me it sometimes seems like I have too much on my plate. I am taking 5 classes, writing an Economics thesis, playing rugby, doing ballroom, working a job, and I am treasurer of 4 different organizations on campus.

     Freshmen can especially feel pressured, because they are in a new environment. They are trying to make new friends, get acclimated to a different kind of class schedule than high school, and trying out new clubs that interest them.  Students will get stressed, whether it is at the start of the semester, midterms, or finals. But, stress can be good for people sometimes. It is the way that we learn how to overcome obstacles we encounter.  What isn't good for you is distress;  when someone becomes distressed it is important for them to have an outlet.  Whether that outlet be a person, a sport, or some hobby.  Students need to find a balance in their busy lives so that they do not become distressed.

     Balance in a college student's life is very important.  It is what keeps us sane.  I encourage everyone to work out some kind of schedule.  I do not mean fill every second of your day with chores and responsibility.  It is very important for college students to build in time for themselves during their busy days.  Spend an hour or two a day doing what you want to do, because if you never do what you want to do then you will never see the real reward of the school work you have accomplished.  Balancing your life means that you get your school work done, and your reward for that school work is to spend some time doing what you like.  I know college students feel like they always have to be doing something school related, but I will tell you that it is much easier if you do things slowly and progressively so then you have some time for yourself.  Balance your life so that school isn't the only thing that you're concerned about.  Grades are important, but college isn't just about grades. It's about experiencing new things, and finding out the kind of person you are and the kind of people you want to surround yourself with.  The key to learning these things in life is balance.