To surf, or not to surf — that is the question that plagues student-surfers when their responsibilities conflict with the epic swells rolling into their favorite breaks. I often find myself distracted from my studies, especially when I can see the ocean and watch the breaking waves from almost anywhere on Pepperdine’s campus. Like a siren song, the sea calls to all of my senses, captures my attention and refuses to let me settle down until I’ve appeased the desire it has awoken within me. The magnetic draw of the water can often cause me to leave my homework in a dejected state.
Although the ocean’s power of distraction is a continual issue in my life, I’ve also discovered its ability to restore my focus, balance and peace.
First, let me clarify that I believe Jesus Christ to be infinitely sufficient at washing away the chaos and worries of life while bringing ultimate joy and satisfaction. There really is no valid substitution for his grace in my life. However, in a previous article this semester I talked about how I see God’s attributes reflected in the characteristics of the ocean, as one of the opportunities with which he blesses us as a way to embrace the joys of his creation.
There is a fine line between being a well-balanced student-surfer and a straight-up surf bum. The occupations of student and surfer exist in a precarious relationship. They could either destroy each other or be a dynamic pair in which they are stronger together than apart. The primary defining factors in a successful student-surfer are prioritization, time management and motivation.
Make a list and figure out what is most important to you so you can be sure to make time to fit it in even if that means having less time for TV, parties and Facebook.
Manage your time by allocating blocks of your day specifically for academics so you know you will have time to hit the surf later. It’s rare to hear of anyone regretting paddling out into the surf, but all too often students find themselves regretting not studying more. Finding a healthy balance is key.
Keep yourself motivated and focused on your goals by setting specific, concrete steps to keep you in check and on track with your progression in your academic life and also as a surfer.
Junior Nick Vanderpoel talked about balancing being a student and a surfer. “There are times when I know I should’ve been studying or doing homework but I was out surfing. It can distract me from being a good student, but its a great way to meditate and release negative emotions.”
Pepperdine provides a healthy balance between an ocean-based lifestyle and demanding academics. “Ocean culture has a much slower atmosphere,” Grant Waggoner, Co-leader of the Walking on Water Surf Convocation said, “but Pepperdine combats that with the rigor of its coursework. Students learn discipline. Studying and going to the beach aren’t mutually exclusive.” Sometimes being responsible includes taking a break from school to surf, other times it means waiting until the next swell.
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Follow Akela Newman on Twitter: @AkelaRenae
