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At this point, everyone has probably heard about the infamous “Engineering Triangle”: Between getting good grades, having a social life and sleeping a healthy amount, you can only choose two. Often, this choice seems almost like an immutable law. I spent most of my first two years at Texas A&M stressing over my classes and the size of my social circle, often getting a maximum of four hours of sleep per night (I honestly couldn’t tell how I survived that time). Though I got perfect grades and met tons of people, I was skipping my 8 a.m.’s and falling asleep in the classes I did attend. Worst of all, I felt depressed and lethargic. That’s when I knew I had to change. Surprisingly, all it took was a few simple actions.
The Power of Journaling
Surprisingly, the change I needed came in the form of journaling. Initially, I was skeptical. How could writing down my thoughts daily lead to better grades, a vibrant social life and more sleep? But after I began, I realized it was about more than just chronicling events; it was about introspection and prioritization. Every evening, I jotted down what mattered most to me that day. This practice helped me identify time-wasters and focus on activities that truly benefited my well-being and academic performance.
Time Management Skills
The next crucial step was mastering time management. I created a weekly schedule, allocating specific hours for studying, socializing, and resting. It’s essential to be realistic about how much time activities actually take and to include buffer time for unexpected tasks. I also learned the power of saying “no.” It’s okay not to attend every social event. Choosing quality over quantity in social activities led to more meaningful relationships and less time spent in situations that didn’t add value to my life.
Prioritizing Health
Sleep is often the first thing sacrificed in the quest for a 4.0 and a social life. However, I realized that adequate sleep was non-negotiable for peak performance. I set a strict bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends. This regular schedule improved my sleep quality and daily energy levels. Additionally, I incorporated exercise into my routine, which improved my physical health and mental clarity, making my study sessions more productive.
The Art of Efficient Studying
Efficient studying doesn’t mean cramming for hours on end. It’s about finding what study methods work best for you. A mix of active recall, spaced repetition and teaching concepts to others was most effective for me. This approach made my study sessions shorter yet more effective, freeing time for rest and social activities. Remember, it’s not about how long you study, but how well.
It’s a Balancing Act
Achieving a 4.0 GPA, a thriving social life and ample sleep is a balancing act that requires self-awareness, discipline and adaptability. Journaling, efficient time management, prioritizing health, studying smartly and maintaining meaningful social connections are key components of this balance. Remember, it’s about making intentional choices and understanding that you can’t do everything. By focusing on what truly matters, you can excel academically, enjoy a vibrant social life and still get the rest you need. Yes, it’s possible!
Aerospace Engineering, Class of 2024
If you found this blog post interesting, you may consider reading “Fight Life’s Autopilot Trap” and “Remember there’s always an alternative.”