As Lauren Rylander, a third-year college student, stumbles into her dorm at 6 a.m. after a grueling 12-hour shift as an emergency medical technician (EMT), she feels the weight of exhaustion. A warm shower is her only remedy. Once refreshed, she quickly changes and packs her backpack for another day of classes at the University of Virginia.
For Lauren, the key is to keep her EMT work separate from her school life. “I never carry the call into class,” she insists. Many students like her face the tough task of juggling night shifts with their daytime responsibilities, whether they’re EMTs, nursing assistants, or resident advisors. They must manage not just sleep deprivation, but also academics, social life, and personal health.
Take Mary Gombos, another third-year student and certified nursing assistant at the University Medical Center. Sometimes awake for 30 hours straight, she relies on energy drinks to power through her overnight shifts. As the Vice President of Finance for her sorority and a CPR instructor for CavsCARE, Gombos understands the struggle of fitting in her commitments. “It’s all about planning,” she says, explaining how she finds ways to balance everything she loves.
Like Gombos, Nema Saleh, a fourth-year engineering student and resident advisor, plans her schedule around her few overnight shifts. Though these shifts can stretch late into the night, she keeps commitments light on those days, which helps her stay alert.
For Lauren, being proactive is essential. “I choose my classes around my EMT shifts,” she shares. This ensures she has enough downtime to recover. Despite the challenges, the dedication shown by these students to their work and communities makes their busy lives more doable.
Lauren became certified as an EMT to be there for people in crisis. “It’s important to listen to their concerns and make sure they’re well taken care of,” she notes. Night shifts can be tiring, but they also help connect her with a close-knit network of peers who share her goals.
Mary emphasizes the bonds formed at work as well. During her shifts, she attends to multiple patients along with a tight team of nurses. “Working nights isn’t isolating at all,” she says, highlighting the friendships she’s built. These connections offer comfort, especially during emotionally challenging situations.
Lauren recounts a tough experience from this spring when a late-night call left her stressed and exhausted. Upon returning to the station, a fellow crew member noticed her distress and offered her food and support, showing the importance of looking out for one another.
Even while navigating demanding shifts, these students invest their energy into their studies and personal growth. They understand the value of self-care. Mary finds moments to recharge, shutting out distractions to appreciate the little things in her busy days. “Being present in those moments is essential,” she reflects, a sentiment many students might resonate with.
In a world where balancing work and school is tough, these students show that, with planning and support, it’s possible to thrive both in their personal lives and careers. They prove that caring for others can be a source of strength while also emphasizing the importance of looking after their own well-being.
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