Assignment Avalanche? Here’s how I keep my cool and my groove!
Ever feel like you’re drowning in assignments? Because, same! One minute, I am discussing the course syllabus in class, and the next, I’m buried under a mountain of readings, essays, and assignments. It is almost like the universe heard me say, “You got this, Anushka!” and decided to test me with endless timelines! Being away from home also adds another layer to the challenge (by the way, I am an international student!). You leave behind a huge chunk of your life, and suddenly, you are expected to manage your assignments, personal life, and everything in between. But hey, I’ve found a few ways to deal with this chaos without absolutely losing my mind or my groove.
Here are three ways you can take a detour away from chaos:
1. Vibe check: I am big on setting the perfect atmosphere when it comes to studying. A cluttered desk equals a cluttered mind, so I like to clear out my space, light up a candle (vanilla or rose are my go-to), and put on some lo-fi beats in the background. It’s like telling my brain, “Okay, time to focus.” Before I start, I like to make a quick to-do list, which helps me effectively map out the chaos. Once the mood is set and the plan is clear, tackling that to-do list is less overwhelming. Bonus? You feel more in control, which is half the battle.
2. A wellness double whammy! Over time, I have realized that combining a tablespoon of social time with a tablespoon of physical activity is the perfect recipe for staying balanced. This week, instead of conversing over coffee, I invited my friends to a quick game of badminton at the RAWC. It is a double win- we stay connected and keep moving! Plus, there is nothing like the joy of trying something new and laughing over every awkward serve! And here’s the kicker- just like how you take on one assignment at a time, you can tackle wellness the same way.
Why not shake up your routine and join us at the RAWC for a drop-in class? Grab a buddy, shake up your routine, and you’ll feel ready to tackle that next assignment with renewed energy!
3. Walk it off! Campus strolls for the win: When my brain sends me the signal that it is absolutely fried after staring at the screen for hours continuously, I know it is time for me to lace up my sneakers and head out to take a walk around campus. And of course, no stroll is complete without a perfect playlist! Currently on my list is ‘Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield.’ It has the ideal uplifting vibe.
UTM’s Nature Trail has to be my go-to spot. And guess what? The UTM Walks program will be re-launching on September 30th, with walks set to take place weekly every Monday and Wednesday from 12-1 pm! Just imagine hitting the trail with a whole crew and discovering new spots. Be prepared- this might just become your new favourite way to hit reset.
In the midst of the assignment avalanche, remember that finding balance is key to thriving as a student. By creating a focused environment, prioritizing wellness, and taking refreshing walks, you can conquer your to-do list while keeping your groove intact. So, embrace these strategies and turn chaos into clarity—because you’ve got this!
