Running a one-person organization

If there’s one thing college has taught me, it’s that I’m basically running a small organization. Between classes, work, volunteering, and trying to maintain a social life, my schedule looks like a Google Calendar that needs therapy.

People ask, “How do you balance everything?” Honestly… I don’t. I stay prayed up, do my best, and hope for the best like everyone else.

What I’m balancing

I’m majoring in Accounting and Management Information Systems and minoring in Senior Living Management. I’m working, volunteering at senior homes, and serving on the BSU cabinet. Somehow, I’m still a supportive friend, daughter, and human being.

On top of that, my Gambian grandma raised me to believe, “You must work twice as hard.” Quitting is not an option. Neither is resting, apparently.

So yes, I’m busy, but it’s the kind of busy that builds your future, so you keep pushing.

The system that saves me

To survive, I rely on my checklists like they’re emotional support animals. If it’s not written down, it will not happen. I’ve learned that college isn’t about who’s the smartest; it’s about who can stay organized enough not to drown.

My notes app is full of to-do lists, reminders, and random thoughts I’m too scared to lose, like “Buy rice” or “Send that email before they think I ghosted.” Crossing things off a list is my version of self-care.

Community work that grounds me

Being involved on campus comes with its own chaos. Between BSU meetings, volunteer shifts, and the friend who texts, “Are you free?”, the real answer is always no. But I show up anyway.

I’m a people person, so I genuinely love the community work I do, especially with seniors. It reminds me why I want to own a senior living community one day. Helping people gives me purpose, even when I’m tired enough to fall asleep standing up.

Choosing peace in the social circus

Then there’s the social side of college: a circus of friendships, misunderstandings, and situationships that start and end faster than my break between classes. I’ve had to learn to choose peace over drama, even when drama tries to choose me.

Sometimes the most mature thing you can do in college is say, “You know what? I’m going home,” and mean it.

Tired, with a purpose

For all the chaos, I wouldn’t trade the experience. Being this busy has made me resilient, disciplined, and more patient than I ever planned to be. I’ve grown into someone who can handle pressure, adapt quickly, and still laugh at the madness of it all.

At the end of the day, I’m proud of the life I’m building. I may be tired, but I’m tired with a purpose.

So no, I don’t have it all together. I’m a full-time student, part-time chaos manager, doing my best to get through each week without losing my mind. Honestly, that’s enough.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started!