So many people have asked me if I'm even taking the time to enjoy college when I'm so busy most days, but in reality, it's only because of college schedule that I'm allowed to fit in time to do things I enjoy.
1. Random pockets of free time
Even though my class/work/internship schedule this quarter is 12 hours long each Monday, 11 hours each Tuesday, and 9 hours on Wednesday, I prefer having long hours, but with an hour off in between because of the fact that I can meet friends somewhat spontaneously, as not all of my friends have a 9-5 at the moment either. The general 9 to 5 routine is a bit mundane for me, as having these pockets of free time often help me beat crowds in public places and public transport, and I know that I have downtime before my next responsibility.
2. All my clubs and organizations!
The thing I was looking the most forward to when I started graduate school a year and a half ago, was getting involved with certain types of clubs and organizations I hadn't had the opportunity to explore during my undergraduate time at DePaul. Those very clubs have introduced me to people who have become some very close friends, just as they served that purpose for me during my undergraduate career. Something people have told me is how hard it is to meet people once graduating, so I was not going to pass up any opportunities to connect, befriend, and network with people while I had as many opportunities to do so.
3. Security
It's a scary time to be an immigrant or even an international student right now. The great thing about being in school was having the security of "one more year" where I wouldn't be on a timeline to find a job, and one that eventually has to lead to visa sponsorship, something that a lot of companies have recently been voluntarily opting out of doing.
4. Learning new things every 10 weeks
I love short term goals, as they're the easiest to keep track and progress of. A school like DePaul is ideal for me due to the quarter system. With exactly 10 weeks worth of subject material, I never have to worry too much about a subject I dislike, or feeling bored of the subject material. Additionally, graduate school being all night classes helps me space out my schedule so that I have a week to do my homework, re-learn tricky concepts, and plan out the rest of my obligations.
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