Balancing your social life and your studies
Published on 23 October 12
If you’re worried the library will start charging you rent because of how much time you spend there or you haven’t picked up your text book since you reluctantly bought it at the book fair, it's important to make sure you get the right balance between your studies and your social life.
Use our handy flowchart to find out which type of student you are (be honest!) and follow the advice to help you to achieve the perfect balance.
The Target Achiever
Traits – high achiever, manages academic tasks with ease, fears group work
You certainly have your academic duties in order but the best University experience should enable you to socialise and network with people. Getting that top class degree is fantastic for your CV but employers will want to see what transferable skills you’ve got and being able to socialise well will be a top priority for most recruiters.
University is also a great place to establish life long friendships and it’s a great way to learn about different cultures through meeting different people. Getting involved with some extra curricular activities during your studies should enhance your experience whilst giving you the confidence to conquer your career after graduation.
Take action – The Student’s Union offer lots of different societies that you can get involved with which cover a wide range of interests from baking to debating, it’s not too late to sign up! You could also look at different charity organisations around Manchester and see if there are any volunteering roles that interest you.
If you struggle with your confidence the Counselling service run a workshop to help you improve your self-esteem and boost confidence. To find out more, click here.
The All-Rounder
Traits – gets involved with different activities, achieves good grades, has good relationships with course mates
If you feel you are maintaining a good social life whilst keeping on top of your studies you are in the best position a student could ask for. If you’ve got a routine which works for you don’t let other students sway you away from it, a well balanced routine is the key to a stress-free degree.
Take action – If you’re happy with your routine keep it up and try not to get derailed as deadlines and exams approach. Make sure you reward yourself after reaching a target whether you’ve hosted a successful event for your society or completed an assignment, relax, take a break and prepare to start it all over again.
The Last Minuter
Traits – leaves assignments to the last minute, laid back at beginning of term and losing the will to live at exam time.
You definitely have the confidence to make a good first impression with potential employers but you’ll need the grades to back you up. You clearly enjoy to network and meet new people, which is a valuable skill but finding the time to study is crucial whilst at University. This doesn’t mean locking yourself in your room with a book until you’ve got it memorised. Creating a good schedule that makes time for study but also allows you to have a break from your studies will work best.
Take action - Check out our guide to time management for guidance on how to achieve and maintain the right balance for you. With a little forward planning you could get through University with a lot less stress.