Balancing my Busy Schedule

"How Does She Do It All?"

As you navigate through this website, I'm sure you're thinking, "How does she do all this and make decent grades?"

Very fair question, though I have discovered it is not a one-size-fits-all answer.

Grades: Are they that big of a deal?

I’ll be the first to admit it: I am not a straight-A student. College chemistry quickly humbled me and changed my perspective on what academic success really looks like.

During my first semester of college, nearly every professor encouraged students to get involved outside the classroom — to join organizations, attend meetings, and seek out experiences beyond lectures. Naturally, I followed that advice and began attending meetings for ABAC ACT and the Cattlemen’s Association.

I attended my first conference in my second semester: National ACT’s Professional Development Conference in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Being surrounded by young adults who shared my passion for agriculture and communications was energizing. After that experience, I craved more learning, travel, and professional growth opportunities.

Before college, I often heard that students learn just as much outside the classroom as they do inside it. I’ve found that to be true. I’ve even asked employers whether they would rather hire a straight-A student with no industry experience or an A/B student with real-world experience.

Every time, the answer was the same: experience matters.

Since then, I’ve intentionally sought out opportunities that pull me beyond the classroom. Sometimes that looks like traveling to conferences in other states; other times, it’s working a booth at a nearby livestock show. Each experience adds a layer of understanding that can’t be taught through a textbook.

That said, balance is still essential. When I recognize that a course requires extra attention, I limit my travel and refocus on academics. I’m grateful to have professors who support this balance and encourage students to pursue opportunities that contribute to long-term career success.

Keeping my life organized

With everything I’m involved in, keeping tasks and commitments straight in my head simply isn’t realistic. Organization has become non-negotiable.

Calendars are my lifeline. I rely heavily on Apple Calendar, which syncs across all my devices and allows me to color-code commitments by category. I also use a physical whiteboard calendar at home, which helps me visualize my schedule and plan ahead more effectively.

Through trial and error, I’ve learned one crucial rule. If it isn’t written down, it will be forgotten.

Staying organized allows me to say yes to opportunities and follow through on them with intention and professionalism.

Screenshot of my October Calendar