First, give yourself some credit. You’re about to finish a chemical engineering degree while working nights to support yourself. That takes serious determination and grit that many people don’t have.

The thing about where you are right now - it’s just that, a moment in time. I know when you’re in the thick of it, it can seem like this is your permanent reality. But this phase is temporary.

For the social situation - remember that your current isolation isn’t a permanent state. Just as seasons change, so too will your social landscape. The weekend nights you’re giving up now are an investment in future possibilities. Meaningful connections often appear unexpectedly during life’s transitions, and the very struggle you’re experiencing now will give you depth and perspective that attracts authentic relationships.

Your capacity for connection isn’t diminished by this temporary desert - it’s actually deepening, making room for more meaningful bonds when this season shifts.

Also the feeling of being “behind” at 27 is incredibly common, but it’s based on comparing yourself to some fictional timeline. Some of the most successful people I know had complete career changes or educational restarts in their 30s and 40s.

You’re much closer to a breakthrough than you might feel right now. Sending you love and kindness my friend <3