Because I took a semester off after high school, I was ready to get back to learning by the time January rolled around. Sitting in my pajamas at home and wallowing away didn’t appeal to me much anymore—although it sounds absolutely splendid as I’m writing this. I missed the feeling of being an eager student. Writing in crisp, white, new notebooks and the excitement of heated discussion were awaiting me. I knew this feeling wouldn’t last forever, though. Eventually, I would be tired of the 90 minute commute, rising before the sun, being consistently overwhelmed by work and the absence of "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" in my day-to-day life.
I thought back to what made me love school when I was younger. I knew the answers: I wasn’t afraid to participate, I prized education, I was getting sleep and eating better, and I had nothing else to put first. I was Hermione Granger. Well, I wasn’t exactly Hermione. I wasn’t nearly as smart, nor am I now, but I had the same tenacity and love for learning. This realization helped me hatch my new plan.
By taking on the Hermione Granger persona, I would have an enthusiasm for my schoolwork, an energetic presence in class and a willingness to engage in my work. Being late wouldn’t even be an option because it would never occur to me as one. Handing in work late or unfinished would only be a possibility if I was out battling Death Eaters (and even then, I’m pretty sure Hermione found a way to get her work in). Plus, it’s a good little acting exercise! I tested and perfected it this semester: my inability to stay away from my remote, or listening to music on the train when I should be doing my readings. I tried to find the fun in all of my work, even if it bored the hell out of me. I started going to bed earlier and drinking lots of water, making all of my choices with my end-goal in mind. I can honestly say that it worked.
By putting my schoolwork first, with some breaks sprinkled in between, I accomplished what I set out to do. Of course, I also took advantage of opportunities that allowed me to forget school for a bit. While it’s important to work hard, it’s also important to play hard, and this mentality contributed to my success this semester. Managing your time and priorities well will help you accomplish everything you want, and you’ll be alive to tell the tale (and marry Ron Weasley)!
