Balancing School, Work and Other Activities

Jackie Dubnicka, a senior and runner says, “I often go directly from school to practice, then from practice to work.  By the time I get home, it’s 10:30 pm and I have to start my homework.  It sucks!”

Students often miss out on significant hours of sleep in the course of a week due to busy schedules.  According to a study conducted by The Journal of Adolescent Health, only about 8% percent of students get the proper amount of sleep on an average school night.   The study also showed that sleep deprivation can lead to daytime drowsiness, depression, headaches and a decline in school performance.  The study says that students need to get at least eight and a half hours of sleep.

The expectations of colleges and the increasing competitiveness of college applicants also contribute to busy schedules.  Students have to have good grades and noteworthy activities.