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In high school, everyone talks about how challenging college academics can be, but no oneÌýreally prepares us for the transition into adulthood that comes with it. I grew up in VenezuelaÌýuntil I was 15, when my family decided to move to the U.S. It was a drastic change, newÌýcountry, new life, new education system and I had to adapt quickly to keep up. I researchedÌýeverything about college life, academics, and tips for success, but nothing could fully prepareÌýme for the reality. Because life isn’t just about academics; it also includes family, friends, work, and personal growth. At this age, we’re transitioning from young adults to fully independent adults, and learning to balance everything is key.Ìý

I got my first job as a freshman in college. Even though I was a multitasker in high school—playing volleyball and cross-country college was an entirely new level. My first semester wentÌýgreat; I finished with a 4.0 GPA and made the Dean’s List. Then, spring semester hit, and itÌýwasn’t as easy. I failed my first class ever. I was shocked. I had never failed a class before. ButÌýinstead of letting it get to me; I took it as a lesson. I reflected on what worked for me in the Fall semester and what I did differently in the Spring semester that led to my struggles. By the Summer semester, I had figured out a balance that allowed me to succeed academically while keeping up with work and personal life. Now, as I near graduation, I want to share the lessons I learned along the way and things I wish I had known when I first started:Ìý

1. Make a Schedule That Works for YouÌý


Everyone is different, and what works for your friends may not work for you. At first, I tried to goÌýto class in the morning and work immediately afterward. But by the time I got home at night, IÌýwas too exhausted to study or even eat properly, for the next day to do the same and myÌýacademics suffered. I realized that I needed to change my approach. I rearranged my scheduleÌýso that I focused on school from Monday to Wednesday and worked from Wednesday afternoonÌýto Friday. This way, I still had weekends off and could dedicate my first three days of the weekÌýsolely to schoolwork. Find what works best for you and adjust accordingly.Ìý

2. Make a Priority ListÌý


What matters most to you? Family? School? Work? Once you identify your priorities, it becomesÌýeasier to create a schedule that allows you to enjoy those things. If spending time with family isÌýimportant, then structure your week so that you can dedicate a day to them. Knowing yourÌýpriorities helps you avoid burning out and ensures that you’re investing your time wisely.Ìý

3. It’s Okay to Say NoÌý


This was a hard lesson for me. My family was struggling financially, so I always took extra shiftsÌýat work. Before I knew it, I was covering for everyone, but my grades were slipping, and I wasÌýneglecting my health. I was just surviving, not living. Eventually, I realized I needed boundaries.ÌýIt’s okay to say no to extra work, to a hangout, or to anything that drains you beyond your ability.Ìý

Protect yourself.Ìý


4. Speak Up for YourselfÌý


There are doors that won’t open unless you push them yourself. Stay on top of your academicÌýprogress—regularly check in with your professors, meet with your counselor, and advocate forÌýyourself. If you need help, ask for it. No one will fight for your success more than you. TheÌýdream is yours.Ìý

5. Use Tools That Will Help You SucceedÌý


We live in time where technology is everywhere, take advantage. Many students have alreadyÌýgone through your major or university, and there are online resources that can save you time.ÌýFor me, ÃÛÌÒapp+ was a game changer, it allowed me to upload my syllabus, and it created aÌýpersonalized study plan for me. Tools like YouTube tutorials, study apps, and tutoring can alsoÌýbe incredibly helpful. Use whatever resources you need to succeed.Ìý
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I hope these tips help you navigate the balancing act of college and work. It’s not easy, but withÌýthe right approach, you can thrive in both areas. Remember, you’re not just getting a degree,Ìýyou’re also learning how to manage life as an adult. Make the most of it and enjoy the process.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the ÃÛÌÒapp Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us –ÌýÌýto pitch your idea and get started! 

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