Join OVIYAH KUMAR as she takes a closer look at how Ngee Ann Polytechnic’s valedictorian Jeffrey Lee balanced academics, leadership, and wellbeing while navigating poly life.
As students, we understand the struggles and fears that come with transitioning into a new academic year after a long vacation. It feels like we have only closed our eyes for a second, and suddenly we are already knee deep into a new semester.
One week into school and we are already being briefed on five different assignments. Three weeks into the term and submissions have already begun. Between studying for tests, attending CCAs, maintaining friendships, pursuing hobbies, and trying to find time for ourselves, poly life can quickly become overwhelming.
(Photo by: Oviyah)
If you’ve been feeling stressed, burnt out, or stuck in “holiday mode”, trust me, you are not alone.
To gain some insight into surviving the school year and managing the pressures that come with poly life, we spoke to recent Ngee Ann Polytechnic graduate Jeffrey Lee, 20, from the School of Infocomm Technology (ICT).
(Photo courtesy of: Jeffrey)
Jeffrey shared that one of the hardest parts about returning to school after a long break was adjusting out of the “holiday mood” and adapting back into the fast-paced routine of polytechnic life.
“At the start of each semester, I will always be stuck in this holiday mood for about three to four weeks. By the time I realise it, common tests are about to begin.”
Jeffrey shared that this feeling is common among his peers. Many of his classmates also find it difficult to regain momentum after the semester break, often falling into habits of procrastination and poor time management.
After weeks of late nights, sleeping in, and having fewer responsibilities during the holidays, returning to a packed schedule and tight deadlines can feel mentally draining.
To manage the pressures of poly life better, here are five tips from NP valedictorian Jeffrey on staying mentally sane while juggling various commitments.
- Never sacrifice your social life
“You can have all the achievements in the world, but if you sacrifice your friends, family, loved ones, and social life, they may mean nothing.”sacrifice your friends, family, loved ones, and social life, they may mean nothing.”
(Photo by: Oviyah)
Polytechnic life can become so hectic that students sometimes isolate themselves in pursuit of success. Having friends and loved ones to support you during stressful periods can make the journey much more meaningful and manageable.
2. Work hard, but play hard too
One lesson Jeffrey strongly believes is in the importance of balance.
“When it’s time to work, focus on your work. But when it’s time to enjoy, make sure you treat yourself like a king, or queen”
While achievements and productivity are important, constantly working hard without giving yourself proper rest can quickly become exhausting. Taking breaks, hanging out with your friends, or just doing things you enjoy can help create a healthy balance that recharges your energy for the semester ahead.
3. Focus on quality, not quantity
Jeffrey pointed out that many students tend to take on too many commitments at once to build up their portfolios, such as CCAs, leadership roles, and other projects.
However, he advised that it is more effective to focus on a smaller number of commitments and do them well, rather than stretching yourself too thin. Overloading yourself with responsibilities can lead to stress and burnout, especially when balancing academic demands at the same time.
4. Do not sacrifice your GPA
He also highlighted that academics should remain a top priority even while pursuing CCA and external commitments. While extracurricular activities are crucial to personal growth, students should be careful not to let them negatively affect their grades. Finding a balance between both is important to ensure steady academic performance alongside personal development.
5. Stay ahead whenever possible
Jeffrey shared that one habit that helped him manage his workload was preparing for modules before the semester began. This helped him to understand lessons when school started, since he was already slightly ahead of the syllabus.
By doing so, he could follow lectures more easily and free up time to focus on other commitments while still maintaining a better grasp of academic concepts.
At the end of the day, polytechnic life is not about trying to do everything at once or chasing success that looks like perfection. It is about learning to manage your time, protect your wellbeing, and still grow as a person along the way. Grades and awards may shape your portfolio, but it is the balance you build and the people you surround yourself with that truly shape your experience.
Every poly experience is uniquely beautiful in its own way. So how are you going to rewrite your poly experience?