Between the Heart and the Grades – A Student’s Struggle

They say university life is about balance — lectures, friendships, love, and personal growth. But no one tells you how hard that balancing act can be.

My name is Tolu, a 300-level student studying Mass Communication. I used to think I had it all figured out — until life reminded me that the heart doesn’t follow class timetables.

I met Ada in my second year. She was vibrant, witty, and had a way of making tough days feel lighter. Our connection was instant — like something out of a novel. We started as study partners, but soon our conversations drifted from lecture notes to late-night calls filled with laughter, dreams, and promises.

At first, it felt magical. I’d sit in class thinking about her. I’d rush through assignments just to spend more time with her. But gradually, reality set in. My grades began to slip — not because I wasn’t capable, but because I was distracted. Instead of preparing for tests, I was texting. Instead of contributing to group work, I’d sneak off to hang out.

Then came the arguments. She said I was pulling away. I said I needed space. She wanted more time; I needed more focus. The very thing that brought us together — school — was now pushing us apart.

I remember the day I got my Media Law result. I failed. Not borderline — a real fail. It felt like a punch to the chest. I sat alone that evening, asking myself, “Is this what I came here for?”

That night, I called Ada. I told her I loved her — but I was drowning. She understood. Surprisingly, she felt the same. We agreed to give each other space. Not a breakup — just a breather. Space to grow, to heal, to refocus.

It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve learned something important:

Love shouldn’t cost you your future. And like academics, relationships need planning, balance, and boundaries.

Sometimes, you have to pause the heart to protect the dream.