'25-'26 Dev Corner: Finding Balance Between Hustle and Halloweekend

November 1, 2025

Hey Troyphi! 🎃 I hope everyone survived and are continuing to survive midterm season. Between projects, presentations, exams, and Halloween festivities, this part of the semester can feel overwhelming to balance. However, it is a chance to remind ourselves why community and fun matter when everything else gets hectic. 

Troyphi just had its most significant events of the year: Monster Mash! This event, along with other Halloween plans, reminds me how social life and self-are are both essential, not opposites. We often feel like we should choose one or the other. But remember, it is about showing up for yourself in ways that keep you grounded and sane. If that’s studying with friends, going all out in your Halloween costume, or just getting a good night’s sleep, these are all forms of self-care that can really help when school gets crazy. 

This past week, I had three midterm projects due and a vital midterm exam. I was considering pulling all-nighters and not celebrating Halloween this weekend so that I could catch up on the sleep I missed while working hard in Leavey. However, I reminded myself that there can be a balance, and if I work extremely hard Monday through Thursday and complete all my studying and work, I can enjoy the rest of the week. This is because the memories hit differently when you are surrounded by people who support you, even when you’re tired. It is safe to say that after completing a tough academic week and celebrating Halloween, I feel great. This week honestly reminded me of the importance of finding a balance between school and social life. 

What does balance look like for you this semester? How do you make time for joy while staying on top of your goals?

Remember: it’s okay to rest, it’s OK to say no, and it’s OK to treat yourself after midterms. Grab a matcha with friends, take a walk, go to the gym, or wear that Halloween costume with pride—you’ve earned it!

As we move through the second half of the semester, let’s continue to show up for each other, whether that’s in study sessions, Troyphi general meetings, and everywhere in between. I hope everyone had a safe, fun, and balanced Halloweekend! 🧡

Signing off,

Asiana Guang, Director of Development Intern