Real College Life with Elizabeth Grace
Welcome to real college life where I interview amazing college students and get their insights, strategies and advice for navigating life in real time.
Meet Elizabeth Grace
What’s your name, what are you studying, and what’s your current vibe this semester?
Elizabeth Grace and I’m double majoring in English literature and in history.
Study setup: Describe your ideal studying setup. Where are you, what’s around you, what are you using?
When I study, I cannot have people around or I will end up completely forgetting my work. I like to go to somewhere quiet and secluded like the library or a study room on campus. Usually I have a notebook to jot down important details, a sharpie pen, my laptop, and an Alani.
Focus fuel: Are you a silence person or playlist person when you study? What’s your go-to “locked in” music?
When I study, I like to turn on classical or instrumental music. If I want to have lyrical music, I’ll turn on something in a different language so it’s not so distracting. My go-to right now is Russian rock.
Snack/drink: What’s your must-have study snack or drink?
I love drinking an Alani for energy and maybe some pretzels, if I’m hungry.
Reading: What are you reading right now, or what’s a book you always recommend?
Right now, I’m reading Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë and All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque.
Planning: How do you plan your week in the way that works best for you?
I have a daily planner where I’ll write down my readings and assignments for each class. I’m not a huge planner, but having my class assignments organized helps keep things clear.
Routine that works: What’s one routine that actually helps your life feel more steady?
I’m not really a person who thrives from routines. Usually, I do what feels good to me, whatever my energy levels throughout my day permit. I enjoy doing things sporadically and on a whim.
Non-negotiable habit: What’s a habit you need in your life to feel like you?
Definitely my hair routine. Washing my hair, doing my curl routine, and styling it every day is something I love and makes me feel so good.
What do you do when you’re stressed but still have to show up?
When I’m stressed (which is often), I try to soothe myself by thinking of how things are logically going to happen. I often catastrophise and think things are going to be really bad. I’m usually wrong. So, I’ll try to think of the worst realistic thing that could happen and the best realistic that could happen. Then, I shoot for somewhere in the middle, which is most likely the outcome.
Perspective: What do you wish you knew at 18?
Something I wish I knew at 18 was how hard life was going to get. I would tell myself to be ok with change and to be ok with losing people I thought I was close to. Relationships are important, but it’s also important to be able to let people go.
Happy right now: What are you genuinely happy about right now?
I am so happy with the friends God has given me. He’s blessed me with such a great community and wonderful, supportive friends. I couldn’t ask for better people in my life.
Fun questions:
Current song on repeat?
Under Pressure 2011 remaster by Queen and David Bowie
Favorite “reset” thing to do?
I love taking an everything shower, putting on fresh pajamas, and watching Pride and Prejudice with my roommate.
Current fixation drink/snack/meal?
I like eating any fresh fruits and vegetables. We don’t get much of those on campus : (
One thing you’re looking forward to this semester?
I’m looking forward to the mission trip to Guatemala I’m going on later this semester.
