Finding balance as a tourism management student

Being an International Hospitality and Events Management student at Middlesex University comes with a unique mix of learning, socialising, and balancing different responsibilities. My typical day starts with catching the 183 bus from Colindale. Once I reach the campus, my first stop is the Costa café, where I get a hot chocolate to help me get through the morning classes. Thankfully, my morning classes this semester are engaging, with interesting subjects, interactive activities and workshops.

Dissertation research at the library

After my morning classes, I had a short break until my next lecture, so I went to the Sheppard’s library to get some ideas for my dissertation topic. Choosing just one topic isn’t easy, as my course is such a broad field with so many interesting areas to explore. Even though the break was short, I managed to get a few ideas, which made me feel productive and motivated.

Making new friendships

After my next class, I met up with a friend in the Quad who studies Digital Marketing. We spent some time catching up, talking about uni assignments and deadlines and making plans for the weekend. We grabbed pizza near the university before heading home on the 183 bus. Interestingly, we actually met at the bus stop while waiting for the 183 bus, and now we’re best friends!

Balancing work and studies

Once I got home, it was time to work on my content writing job! A while ago, I received an email letting me know I’d been selected as one of the university’s content writers, and I was incredibly excited about the opportunity. I knew balancing my course assignments and the job wouldn’t be easy, but with the right time management, I found it easier than I thought. The work itself is interesting, and receiving positive feedback on my content made the experience even more rewarding. The good thing about the content writer job is its flexibility – I can work from home in my own time and earn some extra money to support my student budget.

Relaxation time

After finishing my work, I took a few minutes to stretch and relax before heading downstairs for dinner. However, it seemed that my uncle and aunty, who I’m staying with, had gone out for dinner, so there was nothing to eat. I was too tired to cook for myself, so I put on my jacket and headed down to the nearest restaurant. I ordered seafood rice and a chocolate cake as a takeaway at a Sri Lankan restaurant and went back home. I turned on The Big Bang Theory on Netflix and enjoyed my meal.

After the dinner, I called my parents back home in India. It was a bit late in India, but my dad usually gets home from work late, and my mum stays awake waiting for him. We talked about my job, the weather in London and the usual everyday things. After the long phone conversation, I thought about hitting the bed, but it felt a bit early to sleep, so I went out for a walk around the neighbourhood. It was a bit chilly, but I love cold weather. I put on my jacket, plugged in my AirPods, and enjoyed some quiet time outside.

Finding balance

By the time I got back, I was finally ready for bed. Being a student at Middlesex University means experiencing academic challenges, social interactions, and personal growth. Even though it may seem like an everyday routine, it’s about growing, adapting, and enjoying the little moments along the way. It’s all about finding balance.

About the author

Jaya Vaanavil Jayavel is an International Hospitality and Event Management MSc student at Middlesex University.