So it’s Friday, and you just heard about some parties and other places that you want to hit up this weekend, but then you remember, “Dang, I have to work this weekend.
Not to mention I have to close the store, and I have some schoolwork to complete before I even think about going out. I don’t know how I’m going to fit in some fun this weekend.”I found myself in that very predicament this semester.
I have worked two jobs ever since my freshman year, been enrolled in 16 credit hours every semester, involved in on and off-campus organizations, all while still managing to maintain a 3.75 grade point average.
That may seem impressive, but one should ask, “So when did you stop and enjoy your college experience?”
My answer is “rarely.” Yes, I am that student who now lives in regret for not allowing herself to completely enjoy her first two years of undergrad.
Though I do have some memories, I can tell you I don’t have half of the stories my other friends have accumulated. I know I did not come to college just to have a good time, but all work and no play is not worth it. Take it from me.This semester I took a step back and realized that I’m a college student first and an employee second, so I need not to allow my job to run my life.
So, I dramatically reduced my availability at my second job and focused on my schoolwork and my job here at The Famuan. I vowed that I would not allow my non-academic job to interfere with my college life ever again.
If I want to go away for a weekend, chill with my friends or go to a party, I will, and I recommend anyone else to do the same.Yes, I’m aware that you need money – remember I was the girl with two jobs – but not at the expense of your college experience.
My new motto, thanks to one of my friends, is, “I study hard so, when I feel compelled to, I party hard.”
Now, don’t get it confused. You don’t need to let your GPA slip. You are here for school. But, enjoy yourself.
My goal this year is to raise my GPA to at least a 3.8, contribute to making the paper great, get more involved in my organizations and have a social life filled with wonderful, action-packed experiences.
After all, I’m a college student.
College is the time to build memories and stories that will last you a lifetime. Remember, you have your whole life to work yourself to death. Have some fun.
Now for you privileged students who don’t understand the dilemma of having to work, go to school full-time, be involved in organizations and also try to fit in your social life, this may not be too difficult.
But for all others, remember you are a student first and an employee second.
Please enjoy your college experience because you may never have this opportunity again.
Katrelle Simmons is a junior English education student from Orlando. She can be reached at simmons_katrelle@yahoo.com