Dear Jason,
I think I'm starting to overload on extracurriculars, what with top spot in JROTC and my tutoring group, VP in MUN and NHS, and starting a youth board for a community group, and the International Baccalaureate group. I'm passionate about all these endeavors, but I don't know if I can manage. Aside from being able to maintain my sanity, I’m not sure if I can do everything well. I'm starting to look for other kids who might be interested in possibly helping out with a job or two, but besides that, what do you think I should do?
Thanks,
Overwhelmed Oliver
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Dear Overwhelmed,
I can see how you would be overwhelmed with extracurricular activities. It happens to all the high achievers during junior and senior year though...especially senior year because your social life tends to change a bit, you have new opportunities with school school/college/scholarships/recognition events...but it's usually a good idea to bootstrap it and work through it. Granted I was also starting a small business but with some disciplined time management and efficient multi-tasking skills, everything is very possible. So I mean, sleep deprivation is bad and you should pursue your interests but don't shy away from a more pressured lifestyle. The opportunities you have now in high school are phenomenal and rare.
I can tell you want advice in that direction of lessening your commitments though so let me see how i can help. Definitely after winter break and apps are done, to be honest things do calm down and you can slack a bit on the activities you don't feel are that interesting and are inefficient (i.e. that club you mentioned that has tons of meetings but never does anything) I would recommend talking to the adviser straight up w/ the other VP and make sure she understands your position. It might be intimidating and I know you don't want to cause problems, but you can be honest about your opinion for the organization and your personal commitments. That way you can attend less meetings, still keep your spot and help the next class of leaders.
People are probably coming to you to speak at this event or volunteer with this—don’t be afraid to say “Sorry, I can’t do it.” Now that you have so much on your plate, don’t be afraid to turn stuff down when it really isn’t that valuable of an experience.
Try to be more time efficient. I often worked during classes that I already had a strong understanding of and found boring. If it's a light day, don't just slack off...use your time right and get it done.
Best,
Jason
