For many ESTIN students, the recent holidays were less a pause and more a delicate balancing act. When asked to describe how they spent this break, a recurring idea emerged: it did not fully feel like a holiday. Short, intense, sometimes overwhelming—these were some of the words students used to describe a period largely dominated by revision and academic pressure.
A large number of students reported spending most of their time studying or working on academic projects, often at the expense of real rest. While some managed to partially disconnect, many admitted that stress followed them throughout the break. The proximity of exams transformed what should have been a moment of recovery into an extension of the semester itself.
Yet, amid this pressure, there were meaningful moments. Several students highlighted time spent with family and friends, personal projects, hobbies, or simply catching up on sleep. These moments—sometimes brief—were often described as the most positive takeaways of the break. They served as reminders that rest, even in small doses, plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and motivation
As students returned to campus, emotions were mixed. Stress and fatigue were common, but they were not the whole story. Alongside exhaustion, many expressed determination, hope, and resilience. Some described themselves as “stressed but hopeful,” others as “tired but pushing through.” This mindset reflects a shared understanding within the ESTIN community: the path is demanding, but perseverance remains strong.
When asked to give advice to their peers, students offered practical and thoughtful tips:
- organize your time,
- avoid letting everything pile up,
- balance study and rest,
- take care of your health,
- and remember that rest is not wasted time.
These suggestions reveal an important awareness: succeeding at ESTIN is not only about studying harder, but also about studying smarter and protecting one’s well-being.
In the end, these holidays highlighted a reality many ESTIN students share: even under pressure, they continue to move forward. Their answers show honesty, self-awareness, and a collective desire for balance. While the break may not have been as restful as hoped, it reinforced something essential—the strength, adaptability, and determination that define the ESTIN student spirit.
Source: This article is based on responses collected through a Google Form distributed to ESTIN students after the holiday break.