November 10th, 2026
Writer: Nikki Kane
Editor: Sophia Wohl
One of my favorite things about college is having so many different things to look forward to. There are classes that interest me, goals I’m working toward, and friends who can make an ordinary Tuesday feel like the weekend. I love feeling accomplished after a productive day, but I also love getting ready with my friends and having a reason to close my laptop for the night.
For me, “work hard, play hard” is about making room for all of those experiences; doing everything in moderation allows me to enjoy each part of college without feeling like one has to take over the other.
Make Time for What Matters
There’s a great feeling that comes with putting effort into something and seeing it actively pay off. Whether it’s doing well on an exam, finishing a big assignment, or getting more comfortable at a new job, those moments give us something to feel proud of.
I’ve found that I enjoy my free time more when I’ve given myself time to handle my responsibilities. Getting some work done during the afternoon can make dinner with friends that much better because I’m able to be both physically and mentally present. Having plans to look forward to also gives me a little extra motivation to finish what I need to do.
Of course, remembering there will always be another assignment coming up. Moderation means knowing when I’ve done enough for the day and allowing myself to enjoy the rest of it.
Have Fun- It's Part of the Experience!
Some of the best parts of college happen outside of a lecture hall. Going to a Buckeye football game, celebrating a friend’s birthday, or sitting around talking with roommates can become the memories we hold onto most.
I want to say yes to those moments. Spending time with people I love is something I value, and I want to give it the same attention I give all other parts of my life.
Doing that in moderation helps me enjoy it more. Some weekends, I’m excited to go out and have a full schedule, and others, happy hour and a date party sound perfect. There’s room for both. Being honest about what sounds fun to me makes those plans feel more worthwhile.
What’s Your Version of Moderation?
Moderation looks different for everyone, and it can change from week to week. During exams, I might spend more time studying. After a busy week, I might make extra time to relax or hang out with friends. I don’t need every day to follow the same routine to feel balanced.
As a female college student, I also think it helps to remember that my schedule doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. We all have different responsibilities, interests, and ways of recharging. A friend might love having plans every night, while I might enjoy a few busy days followed by a quiet evening.
The important part is finding a pace that lets me appreciate what I’m doing. I want to be able to focus when I’m working, have fun when I’m with my friends, and feel comfortable taking time for myself.
Taking it All In
What I like about the idea of moderation is that it leaves room for variety. I can care about school, enjoy a night out, spend an afternoon doing nothing, or try something new. There’s space for ambition and spontaneity throughout the same week.
I’m learning that small choices help make that possible. Starting an assignment a little earlier, keeping an evening free, or making plans with a friend I haven’t seen in a while can make a busy week feel more enjoyable.
When I think about what I want from college, I hope to leave with accomplishments I’m proud of and memories that make me laugh. Working hard, having fun, and giving myself time to recharge all belong in that picture. Everything in moderation gives me the chance to enjoy a little of it all.
