US News and World Report ranks Communications High School the 33rd Best High School in New Jersey out of 445 schools. While it might impress parents, this high rank does not come without the price of intense studying and a seemingly constant workload. CHS students with a desire for excellence must ask themselves how they can maintain a healthy work-life balance.

On top of managing an all-honors class schedule, CHS students are highly encouraged to get involved in many clubs and obtain leadership positions as upperclassmen. While club involvement and leadership can be a fulfilling experience for many students finding their niche, there’s no doubt that the added responsibility could lead to struggles in managing a work-life balance.

Sophomore Madison Demaree of Ocean Township manages to dance more than 25 hours every week, volunteer in the community, participate in three CHS clubs, regularly attend cycling classes and read an average of five books every month.

“Take one thing at a time,” Demaree advises other students. “You have to be present at all times and try not to think ahead. If I’m thinking about what I have to do for the rest of the day or week, I can easily get overwhelmed. I do what I need to do in the moment.”

Senior Marina Berger of Marlboro, a member of both the CCC and SGA councils, recommends using a virtual planner to tackle time management. Additionally, she makes sure to keep a positive outlook on her level of productivity.“I think it’s a good reminder not to be hard on yourself,” Berger shared. “Don’t feel guilty for enjoying a movie or watching TV. It’s important to be easy on yourself and try your best.”

Health and physical education teacher Jennifer Baldaccini acknowledges how difficult it can be for high school students to manage their time and energy whilst dedicating themselves to so many different activities.

“In the process of prioritization, you have to sit down and weigh the pros and cons of each [activity],” Baldaccini said. “Everybody’s trying to do everything and be the best at everything – you just can’t. You can’t sacrifice your mental health. Some people are just going to snap.”

Michigan Technological University (MTU) advises students struggling with balancing personal health and academics to choose an appropriate environment for productivity. MTU claims that putting aside time to relocate to a quiet, distraction- free environment and “giving consideration to your need for quiet and support for your academic goals” can make a huge difference.

Baldaccini recalls attending her own son’s back to school night where she met her child’s honors math teacher.

“She told us, ‘I tell the kids that they’re not a number. You’re a human, you’re not defined by that number,’” Baldaccini said. “That was a really good way of putting it.”