Author: optimus prime

You know, academic stress is a bit like being caught in a whirlwind of responsibilities and expectations. It’s not just about managing time, although that’s definitely a big part of it. Sometimes, it’s like each class is a different puzzle piece, and you’re trying to fit them all together while the clock keeps ticking mercilessly. And when you hit a particularly tough class, it’s like hitting a wall of frustration. I can say that moving from my writing class to calculus feels like going from a smooth walk on flat ground to suddenly having to climb steep mountains. Numbers are just boring. It feels like you’re stuck in a maze of problems with no way out. You are desperately searching for that one path that leads to understanding.

Then, add a job into the mix, and it’s like trying to walk a tightrope in a hurricane. Balancing work and academics feels like you’re being pulled in two different directions, with no solid ground beneath your feet. I’ve experienced a snowstorm, but I can confidently say that it doesn’t compare to the work that begins right after the final class of the day. I have been working 20 hours on campus for 3 months now. I know that at the end of each shift, the pressure mounts, and you start to wonder if you’ll ever find balance in your work-study life. But despite the storm clouds, there’s always a glimmer of hope. With a bit of support and a whole lot of determination, you can weather the storm and find your way to calmer seas. It’s about taking it one step at a time, finding moments of clarity amidst the chaos, and remembering that even in the darkest of storms, the sun will eventually break through the clouds.

Life is never the same. Especially, reality is not the same as imagination. I have been through pretty good reality even though my imagination has always tricked me so far. Before coming to UWGB for my higher studies, I had a fear. I was afraid of the cold. Just imagine how it would be for a person who has never seen snow in his entire life. However, I was prepared for the cold. I bought snow boots, heavy jackets, woollen shirts, socks, every possible thing to keep me warm. But the twist is; that I was totally surprised when I landed in Green Bay. Believe me when I say this. I was surprised to find that I could walk in my hoodie. I was surprised that I did not have to wear a hat all the time. Even more, I was surprised that I did not even have to wear boots (I love my sneakers). It is warm here. Although I would love to forget all those cloudy days when the temperature is lower than 10 °C; the sunny days when the sun shines right into the face are one heck of an experience for me (always my favourites). The initial fear lingering in my thoughts has now shifted into a sense of joy.                                                                                                  

In addition to being afraid of the cold, I was anxious about making friends. However, the reality has not been the same again. The presence of my roommate at the community centre, where he was waiting to pick me up, stunned me even more. I never imagined that the person picking me up would be someone I had never met. It was a delightful treat that came as a surprise. This person went above and beyond by taking care of everything, including cooking for me on the very first day, in addition to helping with my bags. I believe it is not usual. Nobody in this busy world cooks for you on the very first day of getting to know each other. I have to say this: He is among the most caring people I have ever met because of his exceptional kindness. I used to be anxious about finding true friends, wondering if they would be kind and supportive. My expectations were completely surpassed by the person who was waiting for me outside the door; it was the most exquisite and touching surprise I have ever received.