As a college student, it can definitely be difficult to balance the other aspects of your life with your academic priorities. A lot of college students grow frustrated when professors or parents fail to realize that while getting up and going to class is a student’s job – it isn’t always their only one. Coming from a commuter student, who goes to school full time and works two jobs as well- it is hard to have so much on your plate at once.

If you find yourself in this situation as well, don’t be discouraged! There are things that you can do to stay on top and be successful in it all! What’s the key to success in both your academic and professional life you might ask?

Time management skills are most important when it comes to balancing so many things at once. It can be tough to devote allotted time to your studies, as well as your responsibilities at your job. Here’s how to efficiently manage your time:

1. Make sure you have your priorities straight.
   • Even though it can be appealing to make money and in a lot of cases, necessary – make sure you always remember that your studies come first in order to have a bright future.
2. Set goals for yourself.
   • Create goals for yourself to achieve both academic and professional success – break down large goals into smaller tasks for realistic victories.
3. Create a schedule that works for you.
   • Allow time for a structured schedule to include your classes, study sessions, work sessions, and any other activities you may need to take part in. Use tools such as planners, or digital calendars on your devices to organize your tasks efficiently. Papier Planners is just one example of a website with many options for planners – where you’re sure to find one that can fit your individual academic and professional needs.
4. Balance your commitments!
   • Make sure you keep time in your schedule to do things you enjoy; like hobbies, relaxation, or self care. Balance these things with work, school, and personal commitments to avoid a burnout.
5. Ask for Help.
   • Do not hesitate to accept support from others; such as professors, friends or family when you are overwhelmed. That is what they’re there for!
6. Utilize downtime.
   • If you have some free time in between classes, or before your shift at work – use it to review your notes, update your planner, or prepare for things that you have coming up. This is not only productive behavior, but reduces stress in the long run.
7. Do not procrastinate !!
   • Procrastination is one of the biggest issues among students. I even struggle with it myself. If you find yourself pushing off your responsibilities try to give yourself a push by rewarding yourself when you’re done. For me, this looks like writing an essay I was procrastinating, then allowing myself to watch an episode of Gossip Girl when I finish, or reading a book of choice to wind down. For further tips on avoiding procrastination visit College Data- Avoid Procrastination
8. Remain flexible.
   • Make sure to stay flexible when it comes to sudden changes in schedule or just a change of plans in general. Try to keep a backup schedule for yourself on deck so that you can accommodate for unexpected changes.

When you’re feeling stressed with a lot on your plate, remember that you are not the only one struggling. Hard work pays off and a little organization and time management goes a long way. You can do this!

Lily Marchiafava is a first year English Student at Holy Family University. Lily’s interests include thrifting, 2000s music and film.