How to Balance School and Fun as a First Year College Student

Starting your first year of college is a super exciting journey! You can look forward to having many new experiences and finding amazing friendships.  

As you navigate this new chapter as a first-year student, finding the right balance between your academic responsibilities and all the fun to be had can be challenging.  

These tips will help you manage your time, understand your limits, and seek help when needed, ensuring that you excel in your studies and make the most of your college adventure. 

1. Be Smart About Time Management

Whether you use a paper planner, a calendar app like Google Calendar, or even a project management tool (check out the free versions of Monday or Asana), it's essential to have a pulse on the demands of your academic load.  

Time management tools help you study smarter and plan when classes will require more work and when you will have more free time. This way you won't get caught off guard, having forgotten you have a major assignment, and a super fun trip planned for the same week! 

For some people, it also helps to put self-care into their calendars. You might schedule workouts, mindfulness activities, digital detox, and time with friends. 

Study Abroad Pro Tip: If you are studying abroad in your first year of college, plug any group outings with your cohort into your calendar and trips to see destinations on your personal bucket list. You don't want to find yourself in your last week abroad overwhelmed with too many things to see and do. 

2. Learn Your Limits 

We all exist somewhere on the introvert/extrovert scale, and we all have different needs when it comes to the amount of study time per subject. During your first year of college, you will be figuring out your limits and answering these questions: 

• How much time do I need to spend socially vs. how much time alone do I need to feel healthy?
• How long does it take me to prepare for a test in each subject area?
• How long does it take me to write an essay and research?
• How much time do I need for self-care activities like exercise, hobbies, and downtime?
• How much time do the essentials take each day and week, including cooking, sleeping, and running errands? 

As you find answers to these questions, you will begin to understand your limits and find a balance between schoolwork and fun. That balance will tell you how to study smart. 

Remember, you can say yes to only some invitations. While spending time on your relationships and on things you enjoy is important, be sure to find a balance with your other responsibilities. 

Study Abroad Pro Tip: If you are spending your first year of college abroad, we recommend that you put yourself in "yes" mode for the first week or two. This will help you meet people and make friendships in a new place, setting you up for social success for the rest of your time abroad. 

3. Ask for Help When You Need It 

Every first-year college student gets overwhelmed at different times. Finding a school-life balance is a challenge, especially when navigating so many changes. Not only is there a heavier academic workload, but it may also be the first time you are living away from home. You may be taking on new responsibilities like a part-time job and the time-consuming errands you used to share with family members (food shopping, cooking, laundry, cleaning, bills, and more). 

Luckily, there is plenty of help to be found. College campuses are full of resources, including: 

• Free tutoring and study centers,
• Free mental health services,
• Food banks,
• Peer support programs,
• Workshops and seminars on time management, study, and research skills, and
• Diversity and inclusion centers. 

Study Abroad Pro Tip: If you're participating in a CIEE First Year Abroad program, plenty of resources from your CIEE local staff will be available. Your study abroad cohort will also be a huge source of support; after all, they are students having the same experience as you! Finally, if you are staying with a host family, feel free to ask for help. Host families know that part of their role is to support you. 

Study Abroad While Earning College Credits Your First Year! 

Imagine spending your first year of college immersed in Japan, Spain, France, or Costa Rica's vibrant cultures while earning credits toward your degree.  

CIEE First Year Abroad programs offer a unique blend of academics and fun! Whether you're learning a new language, exploring historic landmarks, or connecting with locals, you'll gain invaluable skills and perspectives that will shape your future. 

Read More About CIEE's First Year Abroad Learning Experience