The crisp winter air swept through the towering buildings of Columbia University, carrying the scent of freshly brewed coffee and distant laughter from students enjoying their break between classes. It had been a few months since James started his first semester, and he was beginning to understand the delicate balancing act of managing his business, academic workload, and personal life.
Mornings started early—too early for his liking. He would often drag himself out of bed at six in the morning, groggy but determined, flipping through his notes while sipping on instant coffee in his cramped dorm room. His roommate, Mark Henderson, a journalism major with an affinity for late-night radio, usually grumbled as James's alarm buzzed.
"Man, do you have to get up so early every day?" Mark mumbled one morning, pulling a pillow over his head.
James chuckled as he slipped into his jacket. "The market doesn't wait for anyone, Mark. Besides, my econ professor loves pop quizzes."
Columbia's business school was no joke, and James found himself both challenged and invigorated by the coursework. One of his favorite classes, Corporate Finance, was taught by Dr. Robert Kaplan, a sharp and seasoned professor who had once consulted for major Wall Street firms.
One afternoon, after an intense lecture on market forecasting, Dr. Kaplan approached James as the students filed out of the lecture hall. "Mr. Smith, you seem to have a firm grasp on these concepts. Your analysis in today's discussion was… let's say, beyond what I'd expect from an undergraduate."
James smiled modestly. "I've always been interested in market trends, sir. I like to stay ahead of things."
Kaplan adjusted his glasses, studying James curiously. "Staying ahead is one thing, but you think like someone who's been in the game for a while. Have you considered working with an investment firm? I could recommend a few internships."
James hesitated, weighing his words carefully. "I appreciate that, Professor, but I've got my own ventures I'm focusing on right now. Though I'd love to get more industry experience in the future."
Kaplan nodded approvingly. "Ambitious. Keep that hunger, Smith. It'll take you far."
Outside of class, James's social circle was expanding. He had become good friends with David Chang, a fellow business major from California whose family owned a successful chain of high-end restaurants. They often met at the campus café to brainstorm business ideas.
One evening, David leaned back in his chair, stirring his coffee absentmindedly. "So, let me get this straight," he said, grinning. "You own a successful internet café business, manage investments, and still have time for class. What's your secret?"
James smirked. "Time management, delegation, and a lot of caffeine."
David laughed. "Man, you make me feel lazy. My parents keep pushing me to expand our family restaurant, but I don't have your drive."
"You'll find it," James said reassuringly. "Sometimes it's about timing. You'll know when it's time to push forward."
James's growing friendship with Rachel Carter, a sharp political science student, also brought a new perspective into his life. Rachel was passionate about social causes, and their debates over lunch often left James with a lot to think about.
One afternoon, as they walked across the snowy campus, Rachel nudged him playfully. "James, you're so focused on profits. Have you thought about the impact your businesses have on the community?"
James raised an eyebrow. "I mean, we provide a service people need. Isn't that impact enough?"
Rachel rolled her eyes. "Come on. You could offer discounted access to underprivileged students or host free tech workshops. Businesses should give back."
Her words stuck with James long after their conversation, and that evening, he brought it up to Lily while they shared dinner at a cozy Italian place near campus.
"You know," James said, twirling his fork in his pasta, "Rachel brought up an interesting idea about giving back through FutureNet. Maybe offering free access for students who can't afford it."
Lily smiled warmly. "I love that idea, James. It's not just good for business—it's the right thing to do."
James reached across the table and took her hand, grateful for her unwavering support. "You always know how to keep me grounded."
Despite the excitement of college life, James often found himself feeling the pressure. Between running FutureNet, keeping up with classes, and maintaining his relationships, sleep had become a rare luxury. There were nights when he would stay up crunching financial reports, surrounded by stacks of textbooks and empty coffee cups.
One such night, Tommy called him, sensing his brother's exhaustion through the phone.
"You sound like you're about to pass out, James," Tommy said with concern.
James rubbed his tired eyes. "Yeah, I've been running on fumes lately. Trying to keep everything together."
"Look, I know you want to do it all, but you don't have to," Tommy said firmly. "You've got me, Matthew, and the team. Focus on school. We'll keep things running smoothly."
James sighed, a weight lifting off his shoulders. "Thanks, Tommy. I don't know what I'd do without you."
"Well, you'd probably work yourself into the ground," Tommy joked.
As James settled into his life at Columbia, he realized that while he had an edge with his knowledge of the future, the relationships he built in the present were just as valuable. Whether it was the professors who challenged him, the friends who inspired him, or Lily, who kept him grounded, every experience was shaping him into the person he needed to become.
And though he still had much to accomplish, for now, he was content with the journey.
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