Guest column by Kiersten Steinke, AuD student
We all know that balancing school and personal life can be a little overwhelming at times. Throughout my time as a graduate student, I’ve found that taking time for myself and doing things I enjoy each day has allowed me to reduce stress and prioritize everything I need to accomplish. Whether that is a fun job, hobby, or exercising, incorporating something relaxing into each day makes an impact on your productivity.
During my time in graduate school, I have been employed on campus through the McBurney Center. On campus employment is a great option for us as graduate students as it allows for a flexible schedule and a way to connect with campus. While it may sound stressful to add more to your schedule with employment, working at the McBurney Center has allowed me to meet some amazing people who are welcoming and have the goal of making campus more accessible in mind. I have been able to gain skills that benefit me at work but also with my personal life and educational career. It has also been a great way to break up my class schedule and responsibilities while taking my mind off school. Take a look at the Student Job board for employment opportunities across campus.
Check out some other ideas on how to spend time doing something you may enjoy or areas to seek out a new interest or hobby:
- Take a look at the UW-Madison Events Calendar for fun events hosted across campus in areas such as science, music, arts, diversity, and much more.
- Channel your creative side at Wheelhouse Studios in Memorial Union. Sign up for a class or workshop or drop into an open studio to try out ceramics, acrylic painting, jewelry making, and varying other activities.
- If you want to get outdoors, check out all that Wisconsin Hoofers has to offer. Whether you enjoy backpacking, kayaking, snowboarding, or skiing, they have many outings and workshops to choose from.
In addition to the opportunities I have listed above, there are countless other ways to make time for yourself in your busy schedule. We are on the home stretch of this semester, so schedule some time to relax today. I hope you make yourself a priority during this busy time of the year.
Looking for more information specific to UW–Madison? Check out the Campus Sustainability Map. Want to connect with the Office of Sustainability? Join us for Earth Week events, follow us on social media at @SustainUW, and sign up for our monthly e-newsletter.
Tips for Grads is a professional and academic advice column written by graduate students for graduate students at UW–Madison. It is published in the student newsletter, GradConnections Weekly.