Navigating University Life: Balancing Ambitions, Burnout, and Excitement
Starting university can be an exhilarating yet overwhelming experience, especially when you’re stepping into unfamiliar territory far from home. Recently, I attended orientation at my new university—my first visit to this city, which is several hours away from where I grew up. As a 21-year-old psychology major with future graduate studies in mind, I have big plans and an even bigger to-do list.
Throughout my academic journey—from community college to now—I’ve been deeply involved in various extracurricular activities. Back then, I managed student media, participated in student government meetings, engaged with PTK and SkillsUSA, organized campus events, and worked on campus for up to 20 hours a week—all while taking classes and applying to universities. My secret weapon? ADHD. My mind constantly buzzes with new ideas and projects, often leading me to start multiple tasks simultaneously.
That intense drive sometimes results in procrastination, stress, and moments of overwhelm. Yet, I persevere and push through—getting things done, even if it’s not always perfectly or on time. As I prepare to leave home for this new chapter, I carry both my passion and my neurotic tendencies with me. Unfortunately, burnout has become a familiar companion, lingering just beneath the surface.
Despite these challenges, I’m genuinely excited about what’s ahead—meeting new people, exploring new academic interests, engaging in research, and more. I have a complex relationship with academia: while I love learning and discovery, the pressure and workload can be daunting.
My recent orientation was a flood of information, and now I find myself anxious about whether I should immediately pursue internships, find a job, volunteer, or join organizations. How proactive should I be? To top it off, I noticed I wasn’t alone in opting out of many optional sessions—am I missing out, or is it okay to take things at my own pace?
Next week, I’ll be speaking with a therapist to help navigate these feelings and uncertainties. Meanwhile, I’d appreciate insights from more experienced students—especially those who, like me, juggle multiple commitments and sometimes feel overwhelmed. How do you manage your schedule effectively? Are these extracurricular activities truly beneficial in the long run?
If you’re a seasoned university veteran or simply someone who understands this balancing act, I’d love to hear your advice. Is all this hustle necessary, or can it sometimes hinder what truly matters? Your guidance could be invaluable