Practice real IELTS Speaking Part 2 questions and answers.

I recall a time during my first year of university when I received invaluable advice from my academic mentor, Professor Lee. The advice was about managing my workload and balancing academics with personal well-being. I received it during a one-on-one meeting in his office, about halfway through my first semester. I was feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of readings, assignments, and lectures, and I was struggling to keep up. I was also trying to participate in several clubs, which added to the pressure. During our meeting, I expressed my concerns, admitting that I felt stressed and was worried about my grades. Professor Lee listened patiently and then shared some profound advice. He told me that university life is a marathon, not a sprint, and that burnout is a real risk. He advised me to prioritize my tasks, learn to say 'no' to commitments that stretched me too thin, and most importantly, to schedule dedicated time for rest and hobbies. He emphasized that taking breaks isn't a luxury but a necessity for sustained productivity and mental health. This advice helped me immensely. I started implementing his suggestions immediately. I became more strategic about my study schedule, focusing on the most important assignments first. I also cut back on some extracurricular activities that weren't truly fulfilling. Crucially, I started dedicating specific times each day for exercise or relaxation. This shift in approach significantly reduced my stress levels, improved my focus, and paradoxically, made me more productive. His advice taught me the importance of self-care and sustainable work habits, lessons that have continued to benefit me throughout my academic and professional life.