Not picky, just smart.

When it comes to being a student, your weekly schedule can fill up faster than you think—classes, assignments, work or a party invite all compete to stay on your calendar. Juggling all of them simultaneously while trying to make it to the end of the week is a one-way ticket to the ultimate burnout.

That’s where the skill of being picky comes in. Choosing wisely and focusing on what benefits you can make all the difference in the long run (and hopefully not burning out by next week.)

Oftentimes when we hear the word “picky,” we associate it with a negative connotation, picturing a kid stubbornly refusing to eat broccoli. But, being picky is the ultimate skill to have as a student. From academics and work opportunities to social life and finances, being picky helps you have a happier and a more balanced student experience.

Academics

Take academics as an example; many students take up electives just because they sound cool. While exploring is exciting, being selective with your choices and choosing electives that align with your personal interests and career choices can help you later. For instance, a business student taking up a public speaking elective will help them gain confidence and improve their presentation skills. 

Pickiness also helps to figure out how you study. Study methods aren’t only of one type. What works for your friends may not necessarily work for you. Your friend could be skilled at active recall, but you might study better with mind mapping. Choosing what actually works for you is smarter than forcing yourself into methods that don’t.

Work opportunities 

When looking for a work opportunity, finding a job that checks out all of the items on your list can feel like an impossible task. Varying from a short commute to helpful experiences for your career, it can be tempting to pick whatever comes your way. But taking the time to choose what aligns with your skills and future goals can make a huge difference in your career. 

And during internship season, let’s be clear: unpaid opportunities are a red flag. Your time, skills and effort have value. “Gaining experience” is not an appropriate form of compensation, it’s important to be paid your worth. Never let the employers guilt trip you with the “be grateful for this opportunity”.  

The good news? People are pushing back on unpaid internships. Movements like our campaign Time is Money are encouraging students to share their stories and push back against unpaid labor.

If you have a story, let it be heard.

Finances

Let’s be real, managing finances isn’t really anyone’s favourite part of the day. Between pricey textbooks and a sweet treat after a long day, checking your bank account can sometimes feel like an absolute jumpscare.

Here’s where being picky comes to the rescue. Choose where your money goes carefully, differentiate between wants and needs and indluge in things that genuinely bring you joy. Maybe that’s a Friday bubble tea or a cookie on Thursdays. When you are picky, not only do you prevent expensive mistakes but you also get to enjoy things that actually will make you happy.  

Set smart goals, create a small monthly budget and incorporate money habits in your daily routine so you can have a mind map of your spendings. And with IGNITE’s Health & Dental insurance plan, you have one less thing to worry about.

Social life

On campus, you’ll come across all kinds of people—classmates, roommates, coworkers, club members—and getting to know new folks is one of the most exciting parts of student life. But it can also get overwhelming, saying yes to every hangout or event can make you exhausted.

Being picky socially means focusing and surrounding yourself with friends and a community that uplifts you, not drain you. Never stop yourself from wanting to get to know a new face, just keep your set of boundaries strong. That way, you’ll have an encouraging and optimistic circle without feeling drained. 

Quality over quantity

Your best student experience isn’t the busiest one, it’s the one that reflects the real you. Being picky is really just about knowing your limits and protecting your peace. It’s OK to skip a party when you’re exhausted or saying no to an opportunity if you already have too much on your plate. Setting boundaries doesn’t mean you’re missing out.

Remember: Post-secondary isn’t about doing everything—it’s about doing the things that are right for you!

Feature image courtesy of Javier Allegue Barros via Unsplash.

Can’t figure out what to do in your free time? Check out how to find the hobby of your dreams!

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