Upon graduating from high school, you are bombarded with advice from those who have walked that road before. These include parents, former teachers, aunts and uncles, and so on. Their advice usually falls into the realm of, "Keep your head in the books," "You're not going there to party," "Attend class! don't be out partying!" Now, all of this is sound advice. However, we all know it's not quite that simple. Getting that first whiff of freedom as a freshman can be intoxicating which can lead to short term binges on cheap liquor, fast food, and sleepless nights. The emphasis needs to be placed more on how to achieve a healthy balance rather than giving heed to the evils of partying.

The key to this balance is simple: compartmentalization. The ability to group your life into different sections while making a commitment to dedicate a certain amount of time to what's important. This is all in addition to a system of checks and balances. The first step is to write down a list of three to four things that are important to you. For example, my list as a freshman would have been academics, softball, social life and "me time." After you've created your list, prioritize these sections from most to least important. I think it goes without saying that everyone's list should begin with academics! For my athletes and band students with scholarships, it'd be wise to make it your second priority to dedicate an ample amount of time to performing and maintaining your scholarship. The next few things you should put on your lists depends on what you personally hold important, whether it be fitness, rest, social life, partying, etc. However, you should be mindful that these things should supplement your free time and should not be done without the completion of the first two priorities.

Another integral component to achieving a balanced life in college is self care! Self care looks different to everyone, but its main premise is doing something that makes you happy and keeps you mentally in the right space. For some, it may be relaxing and reading a book, and for others it may be as simple as taking a walk around campus. It can be whatever simple act keeps your head clear! For my friends and I, our self care was our weekly family dinners. We'd cook a quick meal in our room (typically chicken Alfredo), make some margaritas, watch a few episodes of American Horror Story, followed by dancing tipsily around the room to obnoxiously loud music. Now that may not be everyone's cup of tea, and that's absolutely fine. You can do whatever floats your boat!

All in all, partying in college is inevitable. Everyone does it at some point or another. I learned about finding my balance the hard way: at the expense of physical and mental exhaustion as well as my grades. As I progressed through the years, I found what works best for me and keeps me on track. If I have a wild weekend planned, I'll spend an entire day or two in the library and sacrifice my free time so that I can enjoy my weekend. Nothing feels better than partying on the weekend without looming the anxiety of incomplete homework or projects! You can relax knowing that your Sunday can be spent in peace recovering from your drunken stupor.