Balancing multiple different things at once while trying to remain a high GPA seems close to impossible. The first thing that runs through your mind usually is school. Here are some reasons as to why we contemplate pulling our hair out on a daily basis.
1. Social Life
Maintaining a social life is easy, but maintaining a social life in college is near to impossible. Of course we all want to go to that frat party on Thursday night; if only we didn't have a 7 page research paper due on Monday. If I am lucky, I manage to go out maybe once a weekend. I don't even have time to go out to eat with friends with out feeling like i'm missing out on studying for an exam. In college you must take sacrifices to achieve good grades. Say goodbye to your daily turn up events.
2. Work
Working is very important in college for the people who need the financial assistance. The only problem is the fact that going to school full time and working full time doesn't mix. You have to take at LEAST two hours of study time per class. Do the math and then try to add work into the equation. It equals sleepless nights and lower grades.
3. Pets
We all dream about owning puppies and kittens. I for one made that dream a reality. I I could go back in time, I would have waited on purchasing a puppy. When going to classes early and having an exam coming up, I always book a study room for four or more hours. With that being said, I have to wake up earlier than usual, take out my dog, go to school, leave right after my last class, take out my dog, then walk back to campus to study. After a long day/night of studying I then have to feed my dog, and take her out again before doing anything for myself. It adds a lot of stress but I made the commitment.
4. Food
I tend to find myself constantly hungry. Sadly, ramen noodles and mac and cheese seem to be my only option. I never have any time to grocery shop, ever. Cooking takes up too much time that I can spend walking my dog, or practicing different equations. Freshman 15 is real. So is Sophomore 15 as well. Try finding something more organic to throw into the microwave because trust me, you'll be dependent on microwavable food.
5. Classes
In high school, your teachers were as lenient as it gets. I blink my eyes and I have three projects due, two exams coming up, and five homework assignments that need to be turned in at 11:59 p.m. If you miss a deadline or a class, there is no sympathy. Professors are there to teach you and grade you work. Never to give hand-outs. Biology was easy in high school, right? College Biology is a whole other story. That class/ lab alone takes up most of your time. Be prepared for long, coffee filled nights and conversations with your friends.
