Strong communication is key in any relationship, but it becomes even more crucial when you're balancing university life. Between lectures, assignments, and exams, it’s easy to let time slip by without checking in with your partner. Make sure you set aside time to talk about your day, express concerns, and share your successes.
Time management is your best friend at university. Having a clear study schedule will allow you to make time for romance without sacrificing your academic success. Once you have a schedule in place, look for opportunities to plan time with your partner. For example, if you know you have a quiet afternoon with no assignments or exams looming, plan a cosy date with your partner afterwards. Conversely, if you have an intense study session coming up, let your partner know in advance and plan for a fun weekend together once it's over.
Long romantic dates might not always be feasible when you’re buried under assignments. Instead, focus on making the most of the time you have. Small gestures—like sending a thoughtful message during the day, sharing a quick coffee break, or taking a few minutes to talk after class—can go a long way. Even when you can’t spend hours together, being intentional about your time ensures you aren't neglecting your relationship.
Finally, it's also far too easy to forget about self-care when juggling academic responsibilities and a relationship. But taking care of yourself—physically and emotionally—is just as important, if not more so, than tending to a relationship or your academic responsibilities.
University can be an exciting time to grow both intellectually and emotionally, and with a little effort, you can make the most of both worlds. It's all about striking the right balance!