Finding the right balance: sleep, study, and free time?
Hey everyone, I’m a 17-year-old male who just started my Bachelor’s degree in fashion at TAFE NSW three weeks ago, and I didn’t anticipate how draining it would be. I wake up at 6:30 a.m., attend classes, and don’t get home until 7 p.m. After that, I’m typically studying or finishing homework until around 3 or 4 a.m., then I do it all over again the next day. Despite dedicating almost every waking moment to my studies, I still feel overwhelmed with an endless pile of assignments.
Most of my classmates are in a similar boat, but they either live closer to TAFE, sleep around midnight to 2 a.m., or spend less time on their coursework. Is this typical for college life? How many hours do you all sleep? Do you manage to find any free time? Am I supposed to have free time?
Hey! It sounds like you’re really putting in a lot of effort, and it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed, especially as you adjust to a new routine in your Bachelor’s program. Here are some thoughts based on what you’ve shared:
Sleep: Ideally, high school and college students should aim for about 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Consistently going to bed at 3-4am isn’t sustainable and can severely impact your focus and productivity. Sleep deprivation can make it harder to absorb information, which might be part of why you’re feeling behind. Try to establish a consistent sleep schedule, even if it means adjusting your study habits.
Study Time: It’s common to feel the pressure to stay up late and study, but quality often beats quantity. Instead of longer study sessions, consider shorter, focused study periods with breaks in between to help retain information better. Additionally, exploring techniques like time-blocking or the Pomodoro Technique might help manage your time more effectively.
Free Time: While studying is important, having some downtime is crucial for your mental health and overall well-being. Even short breaks can help recharge your brain. It’s essential to incorporate activities you enjoy, whether it’s hanging out with friends, pursuing a hobby, or just relaxing. This balance can actually improve your productivity in the long run.
Adjusting Expectations: Remember that it’s normal to feel a bit behind at first, especially when starting a new program. It might take some time to find your rhythm. Don’t hesitate to seek help from your instructors or classmates if you’re struggling with specific assignments or concepts.
In summary, try to prioritize your sleep, implement effective study techniques, and carve out time for yourself. College can be challenging, but with some adjustment, it can also be fulfilling! Best of luck with your studies in fashion!