Unless you are anti-social, or your friends exist solely in your imagination, you have encountered that difficult decision of either staying home for the evening and studying like the model honor student you are, or going out for another adventurous night of partying like a millionaire.

Though it might seem very selfish and irresponsible, I personally would advise on choosing the latter. Spending quality time with friends in an entertaining environment is better than spending time alone with books. Hanging out with friends helps you chill after a really stressful day and lends a hand in forgetting the load of school work that lies ahead.

It’s fun to go out and explore different neighborhoods of the Bay Area, and discover new places while meeting new people. Meeting new people just helps you become a more outgoing person, and proves to others that you are likable and social.

You should definitely have a fair balanced outlook when it comes to your social life and college education. It would make perfect sense to do your work before doing anything of personal interest. Allow yourself enough time to complete your school work and get your studying done, and reward yourself by hanging out with your friends afterwards. In doing so you won’t have that constant nagging voice in your head reminding you that you have something due the next morning.

The smart thing to do is just handle that simple assignment for a little while, just get it over with so your mind is at ease, and then you can go out. Studying should be a priority as a student, since everything you do will affect your grade, thus going on your permanent transcript.

School will always be there, your youth and special events won’t. Don’t misinterpret me, as I in no way am endorsing dropping out or encouraging you to become a slacker. You are only young once, and it’s better to get a feel of being eccentric as a young adult because it would seem awkward being in your early thirties and going to your first frat party.

These should be the moments you create outrageous memories and inside jokes that only you and your friends understand. If you constantly have to back down from invites due to course related issues, chances are your friends will stop inviting you out to fun places.

Of course, there are certain exceptions that require nothing more that common sense. If you have your final exam the following morning at eight o’clock, chances are your girlfriend will take it as a valid excuse for not wanting to see that romantic comedy she has been eager to see. Or if your best friend is just bored and needs company when going tie-shopping, you probably should not lose out on study time for your Chemistry test. If you and your friends suddenly planned a last minute weekend road trip that requires you to take a personal day, I see no harm in playing hooky for a day.

It is sometimes difficult to balance both school and a personal life. Education should always be important as your grades affect the timing and chances of transferring, but taking time for yourself and having fun should be just as important.