As we round out the Quarter 2, we are heading into the second half of the school year. Quarter 2 is considered by many to be a challenging part of the school year for many reasons, whether it be amplified amounts of homework or tests, or with the abundance of vacation days that can throw off what we learn in class. Often, it is a lot to handle for many. As a result of these factors, there may be increased levels of stress in students. To get an idea of what a typical student’s day looks like, and the levels of stress that come with it, we interviewed 11th grader, Maryam Badmos.

How much homework do you usually get per night?

Not an overwhelming amount, actually. Mainly I get homework from my math and bio classes, and thats usually 1-2 worksheets and videos.

What extra activities inside/outside of school do you participate in?

I’m a part of the drama club, and I also play soccer.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I wake up, get ready, walk to my bus stop, get to school, do school, get home, have like three hours of free time, maybe go to the gym or make dinner, and then go to bed.

What are some strategies that help you stay on top of your work and maintain a good work/life balance?

To be completely honest, I don’t really have a strategy except just remembering what work I have to do. I procrastinate a lot. When I’m working at home, I usually do it in like 10 minute shifts so I can get a break.

Maintaining a good work/life balance is important, especially for the mind and the body. But sometimes, it’s hard to find that happy medium. We go to school for such a long period of time, some of us play a sport, go to clubs, or go to work. And finally, we return home. And when it comes to doing homework, we can be so exhausted from thinking all day that doing more homework can cross over into being stressful. Using study methods like the pomodoro method or chunking can be helpful strategies, but they can also take up lots of time.

The topic of stress is different for everyone. For some, stress can be a motivation tool to get work done, but for others it’s a way to avoid the task at hand. A little bit of stress is natural and healthy. But when we cross over into constant stress and dreading work, that is when it becomes unhealthy. Quarter 2 brings more homework and more tests into our days, which can pile more stress onto us and it can make us feel like we are always working. Although completing schoolwork is a priority, finding moments for yourself where you can stop, breathe, and clear your mind is just as important for your well being.