It’s final exam season! At this time of year, being a student can feel so isolating. It’s such a huge part of our personality — almost eating us alive if we let it.
Like… who are we anymore outside of being a student?
In between finishing an assignment and starting the next research paper, do you ever feel like you just miss yourself?
I feel like I’m going through this right now too, so let’s figure this out together.
The questions we’re working through:
- What did you do in your childhood that you really loved?
- What are some hobbies you can dial back into?
- How can you connect with your friends?
- What’s something you’ve been meaning to try but haven’t had the chance to?
- What’s stopping you?
- How can you give yourself a chance to try?
What did you do in your childhood that you really loved?
When I was a kid, I loved to sing way too loud or be in the sun for far too long. I also just really enjoyed being around people.
What are some hobbies you can dial back into?
I’ve been trying to find ways I can dial back into the things I used to love to do as a child, while keeping it light and so unserious – so you don’t give yourself extra pressure. For me, this has been going hardcore on the karaoke machine or playing my guitar or piano – not to be any good, but to just feel some kind of release. This has led me to go to more live music shows – of any genre – because I just really love listening to live performances, too!
Here are some of the artists I’ve discovered recently from this new hobby:
How can you connect with friends?
Instead of rotting in bed and doom scrolling, I’ve found a great alternative is to go on long walks with my friends. It also doesn’t make me feel as bad since I’m getting in some exercise during our yap time. I tend to like walks around the water, where the air seems a bit fresher.
I’ve also started going to more live music shows with my friends and family. Kelowna’s pretty great for that since you can find some free or lower-cost shows to jam out!
What’s something you’ve been meaning to try but haven’t had the chance to?
If you asked me last semester, I would have said hiking. I’ve really enjoyed short hikes my family would go on growing up… and for some reason, I didn’t think I could go on my own accord (LOL). I realize now that all I have to do is force at least one of my friends (usually Sonja) out of the house and go outside. We’ve been to Knox, Spion Kop, and around Academy!
What’s stopping you?
I think it was the fact that I didn’t think I had anyone to go with. Or that I’m not a very “naturally” outdoors-y person to begin with. Sometimes, it just feels easier to stay at home and rot, rather than trying something new.
How can you give yourself a chance to try?
This might sound crazy, but maybe try asking your friends if they want to try something new with you. A lot of the time, they say yes and it may surprise you. Who would’ve thought?!?! And even if you feel like you have no one to try something new with, it can be so fulfilling to go off and do something on your own. #FeelingPowerful
Supportive sentiments
Hey, don’t get me wrong, we all need time to rot in bed sometimes. But we can find community in something we find interesting or that we’re passionate about – even as a beginner. You can lean into your comfort zone or try something new, like exploring relationships outside of the ones you foster in a classroom. Because self-discovery is just as important as academic learning – I think.
In the midst of all of this, remember I’m right there with you. The sun’s really helping, though, let me tell you that much! I feel like a person again.
So take time for yourself and recharge! You’ll feel your personality coming back in no time. Best of luck in the final stretch of exam season.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mia Mendoza is a transfer student in her second year of the Media Studies program and loves telling stories. She really enjoys personality tests, anything to do with pop culture, and trying new foods! Her favourite thing to do in Kelowna is taking long walks on the beach and buying overpriced coffee <3
