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Vox Pop: Students Share Struggles Balancing Academics and Social Life

Balancing academics with social life is one of the most common challenges students face on campus. From late-night study sessions to the pull of social events, finding the right balance often tests students' discipline, priorities, and time management skills. Adh-Dhikr Press asked a few students to share their biggest challenges so far, and here’s what they had to say:

"Honestly, campus life hasn’t been very exciting for me so far, it’s mostly quiet and sometimes even boring. But that first day still stands out. I remember the excitement of being brought to school by my dad, with all the expectations of how interesting campus life would be, just like I had read about in novels.

But Alhamdulillah, over time I’ve met really nice friends and lecturers who make things easier, and the MSSN programmes also gave me more exposure and a sense of belonging. I’ve come to realize that campus life isn’t only about fun, but also about the growth, experiences, and achievements we will carry with us after graduation.”
— Akindele Aishah Daud

"One of the skills I have been able to learn is avoiding conflict or being in the midst of it.
As much as I relate with people, I hate conflict so I make sure to be conscious of my work and actions so I can avoid trouble.”
— Hibatullah Abdulwasih

"It has been easy for me because I like social stuff and most of my social life happens after academic stuff. In a way, I will try to avoid any distraction during academics and I can say that weekends are my social life currently. You know, I would have gone to class since Monday and the two days are for me to enjoy my personal stuff like business. My business serves as a tool for social life as I associate with people. Lastly academic and social life you have to create balance between them.”
— Badrudeen Nabeelah Adenike

“This might not be encouraging but since I was asked, I will say I have prioritized my social life over my academics, but not that I don’t take academics seriously and I could say Allah has blessed me with the opportunity to be able to cram a course in one night before an exam. If I were to advise my fellow mates, I would say one should never prioritize the social life (Note: halal social life) over the academic since our main goal on campus is to excel in our academics.”
— Adekunle Ibrahim

“One of my biggest challenges in balancing academics and social life has been learning how to properly manage my time.

Currently, I often feel pulled in two directions; the Academic pressure on one side, and the need to connect with friends, attend events, and my businesses as well. At first, I found myself depending too much on academics, which pulled me too much to one side, or at other times spending too much time socially and then struggling to meet some deadlines.

Over time, I realized the importance of creating a schedule that allows me to be productive without missing out on meaningful social interactions and also engaging well in my academics.
I also learned that it’s not about doing everything at once but how well I'm able to effectively utilize my time.”
— Fayemi Olakunle Muqsit

“My biggest challenge in balancing academics and social life has been managing time effectively.

There are moments when academic deadlines clash with important social events, making it difficult to be fully present or active in either.

I believe that learning to prioritize, set boundaries, and create a flexible schedule has helped me gradually find balance without neglecting either side.

And also with Allah, I believe everything will be back to normal, and I will be able to work out the balance, Bi'idhnillah.”
— Olaitan Habeebullah Oluwaferanmi

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