by: Serena Williams
Finding balance between student life and personal life can be a challenge. Between studying, attending classes, nursing clinicals, and working, it may feel like there’s no time left for yourself. As a full-time nursing student in the Army National Guard, working two jobs, and once balancing the demands of being a part of SIU’s dance team, I’ve faced this struggle firsthand. Despite these demands, staying organized and intentional with scheduling has helped me maintain balance.
One of the most effective strategies I’ve adopted is planning. I use a planner to map out my month, including clinical hours, work shifts, study sessions, and personal commitments. If you can only plan for a week and not an entire month, that’s okay too! By laying everything out, you can identify free time and use it wisely, even if it’s just a short break to recharge. For me, it reduces stress by giving me a sense of control over my time.
I’ve also learned the importance of setting boundaries. It’s tempting to say yes to every opportunity, but I’ve realized that over-committing leads to burnout. Whether it’s limiting shifts at work (if you have the flexibility) or skipping a social event to focus on rest, knowing when to say no has been crucial. Setting boundaries allows me to prioritize my mental health without feeling guilty. This ensures I can give my best to the commitments that matter most, but don’t forget to say yes sometimes too!
Finally, I make time for the things that bring me joy and rely on my support system. My non-academic experiences, including my time on the dance team and military obligations, taught me the importance of finding outlets for creativity and stress relief. I still find ways to enjoy movement, music, or other hobbies that make me happy, like walking the Campus Lake! Staying connected with family, friends, and classmates also helps me manage stress and reminds me that I’m not alone.
Balancing student life and personal commitments isn’t about achieving perfection; it’s about finding what works for you and making intentional choices. By staying organized, setting boundaries, and carving out time for connection, I’ve learned to navigate the chaos and still take care of myself. Remember that balance looks different for everyone!
