Moving through high school, especially when you start to make post-graduation plans, you might wonder what your dance/life balance will be. You have spent years getting your dance/school schedule down to a science and soon things will be shaken up! This is probably even more true if you are planning to dance while attending a university. If you’ve ever wondered how to manage this change, or even if you’re just curious to know what this busy schedule looks like, here is an inside look at what my life looks like from classes, to practice, to social time.
As a graphic design major at Siena Heights University, I have a lot of project-based homework which is, of course, time-consuming. With dance, I have more flexibility in my schedule, so I often move my dance training time around based on my classes and workload. It took me a long time to develop a routine with not only school and dance but also social time because it can be really easy to say no to friends so you can go dance. But after being at college for a few months now, I have learned a couple of tips and tricks.
Typically my schedule includes classes from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. After that, it’s dance and homework from the time after my last class until I go to sleep. I will usually dance for two hours, but this varies depending on how I am training that day. Some of my training includes improvisation time, workout, stretching time, open gym to work on skills, and practice.
This schedule changes depending on the day, but this is my typical routine Monday through Friday. On the weekend I fit in more time for my social life and homework, but dance isn’t just a weekday activity! I also go to the studio to just improv at night sometimes (late, usually around eight o’clock). I didn’t immediately figure out this routine, so here are some of my tips to find a balance between dance and other things.
Finding a Dance/School Balance in College
- Set Alarms – This is the only way I get to things on time. I set alarms for everything in my day (even meals) because if you have a packed schedule it can be easy to forget simple things such as food.
- Allow Yourself Free Time – Sometimes you just need time to recharge and watch a movie, read a book, etc. So don’t think you have to hang out with friends every free chance you get. Taking time for yourself is just as important.
- Don’t Procrastinate on Homework – I am guilty of this, and that’s ok! But you will put your mind at ease if you keep up with your homework so that you can have fun. Find anti-procrastination methods that work for you like to-do lists, designated homework time, or an accountability buddy.
Dance is something that is so important to me so I try to fit it into my day as much as possible, but if I can’t sometimes that’s ok too. I know that it won’t be long before I’m moving again. Our bodies need rest and a break is the perfect opportunity to get some.
Finding a balance can be tricky, but I appreciate having dance in my college life. It gives me something else to focus on outside of classes and the opportunity to make more friends and grow as a person and dancer.
