In order to maintain a healthy school-life balance one must prioritize, self-reflect, and manage time effectively.
Prioritization is the act of ranking activities or tasks by importance and urgency. This is an important skill to have because it allows you to allocate enough time and effort to complete your tasks. For example: if you prioritize tasks that are due soon instead of those that are due later, you will be able to meet your most pressing deadlines.
Self-reflection helps individuals recognize what is important to them, how they work best, and what their goals are. Using this information, you can make sure to incorporate the things you enjoy into your day while also scheduling the things you need to do for school or for other commitments. By reflecting on what matters to you, you can make sure your days align with your priorities, and are planned with your goals and work habits in mind.
Time management skills will help you balance personal and academic priorities using tools such as a Priority Matrix. Being organized, designating time in the day for planning purposes, using a to-do list, and focusing on one task at a time can help you become more effective at doing so.
To become better at prioritization, self-reflection, and time management, please visit the resources linked at the bottom of the page and read on below for the perspectives of students who have been able to successfully maintain balance.
Tanaka (‘25) is a student and talented musician here at Dartmouth. In order to keep up with her school work, extracurriculars, and social commitments, she schedules her weeks to optimize balance. On the weekdays, she suggests being as productive as possible so that on the weekend, you can have the chance to relax. Tanaka likes to set Saturday as a “no-work” day so she can go outside, spend time with friends, and have fun. As a result of her time-management skills, she is able to enjoy this relaxing day and be refreshed for the week ahead.
WISP participants Abby (‘25) and Eunice (‘25) conduct medical research on top of their classes. Eunice finds taking intentional breaks important for mental well-being and productivity. She says that “if you feel your mind closing down [after a day of studying], it’s best to close down for the night.” Abby notes that even though it is tempting to reschedule your plans to align with those of your friends, it is important to find a schedule that works for you because what is best for others might not be what's best for you.
Robert Orben once said “Time flies. It’s up to you to be the navigator.” With time management skills, a deep understanding of what’s important to you, and self-reflection, you will be able to navigate your Dartmouth experience with greater ease and purpose.
Resources:
The E-Guide: “Academic Success at Dartmouth”
Time Management Tips | Academic Skills Center (dartmouth.edu)
Making a Schedule | Academic Skills Center (dartmouth.edu)
Planners and Outlines | Academic Skills Center (dartmouth.edu)
Online Calendars | Academic Skills Center (dartmouth.edu)
Academic Success Coaching | Academic Skills Center (dartmouth.edu)
