Having a balanced life in university might be one of the only times in your life when you can actually pull it off. Why? Because you’re surrounded by people going through the exact same chaos — and you’re expected to be a little wild, a little free, and a little all over the place.
This time in your life isn’t just about nose-in-a-book or bottoms-up at the bar. It’s about both. And honestly? St. John’s is the perfect place to figure that out — you can study all day and hit George Street with your friends at night. That kind of balance? You won’t find it forever. So here’s how to make the most of it while you can.
First Year Freefall
If you’re moving into shared student apartments or settling into off-campus housing near MUN or CNA, chances are you’re living on your own for the first time. And for a while, it’s euphoric. You can skip class, order pizza at 3AM, and say yes to everything without anyone stopping you.
And that’s the problem.
At first, university feels like parties and light lectures. But October hits, and suddenly there are midterms. November rolls around, and you’re exhausted, behind, and overwhelmed.
How to Sort Of Get Your Life Together
Here’s the truth: say yes to going out. Seriously. Go when your friends ask — even if you have something due. No, you don’t need to get wrecked every time, but you do need to be young while you’re allowed to be.
But come Monday, lock in. Get up, have a routine, and treat the week like a job. Do your readings. Go to class. Knock out your work by Friday so your weekend’s free. And most importantly, study where you focus best — not just where your friends go. You’ll see them Saturday night anyway.
Final Notes (From Someone Who’s Been There)
Eat real meals. Sleep when you can. Say yes to weird plans. Because when you think back on your time in college in Newfoundland, you’ll remember your GPA or that one group project that made you want to drop out — but more importantly you’ll remember being on George Street until sunrise, cheering at that basketball game, getting a sweet treat when you should’ve been study, and the people who turned your apartment into something that felt like home.
Live your life. Because now, it really is yours.
