by Reeves Peterson

Created on: June 28, 2008   Last Updated: March 31, 2011

A hectic work schedule and a punishing social diary can mean it's tough to find any time for yourself whilst at university. Here are some tips that may guide you to finding the right balance.

Don't be afraid to say No

Being pressured into social activities is one of the principal reasons students don't have any time for themselves whilst at college. It's difficult because no one wants to be left out of potentially fun events. But sometimes in order to relax and re focus you will have to sacrifice that party on a Monday night. It isn't the end of the world if you miss one or two social gatherings here and there. In fact it will make you appreciate the times you do go out and party more. Chill by yourself with some music or a good book and drink some herbal tea. Peace man.

Retreat to a fortress of solitude

Make sure you have your own private space and people know that it is to be respected. If you share a room then negotiate with your room mate times when each of you can have the place to yourself. If you both have to be in the same room at the same time then make it politely clear that you're having some quiet time and those conversations about the hot guy or girl in the dining hall are best left for later on. (this is a very hard rule to stick to!)

Keep a diary

Just as you have to be organised with your study assignments you will need to be organised with your free time. Set clear times and dates for when you are going to spend time alone. Having them written down means you're less likely to break the engagement. Furthermore, if you keep a diary you can work on getting a regular me time schedule. Once you've established a bit of a routine you'll find that organising your time will become far simpler.

Find interesting things to do on your own

Because you'll be around other people for much of your studies it can be difficult to escape sometimes. Make a list of things that you could do on your own such as visiting an art gallery or museum. Another good activity to pursue in solitude is learning about and visiting places of historical interest near your campus. I studied in Bournemouth where author of Frankenstein, Mary Shelley was buried. I visited her grave many times before I realised it was Barry Kelly's and she was in fact in another cemetery.

Don't bite off more than you can chew

It's tempting to sign up for every extra classes that are being offered to you but be wary of spreading yourself too thinly. The same goes for extra curricular clubs and societies. Becoming a member of the Archaeological society, 80s film fan club and the Thomas Hardy readers club may sound like a good idea but in practical terms there aren't enough hours in the day to dedicate yourself to so many different projects.

Finally just have a good time and express yourself. Don't put yourself under too much pressure. Just hand your work in on time and relax when you can.

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