Fortnite at Xaverian: Balancing Gaming and Goals

For years now, Xaverian students have faced the pull of escapism through technology. They don't face this problem alone; according to researchers as much as 8.2% of the US population faces Internet Addiction Disorder. This problem leads people to feel constantly pulled to use technology and results in their shirking of real life responsibilities.

Xaverian combats this malfeasance by guiding students in establishing priorities, and helping them stick to them. Every Xaverian student has to learn to prioritize academics. Dr. Jacob Conca ’94, Principal, notes that “through the everyday activity of classes, your teachers are constantly guiding you to help establish those priorities,” and that these priorities are “constantly reinforced through your day-to-day interactions with your teachers.”

“It comes down to time management,” says Spanish teacher Mr. Press, who frequently addresses the importance of prioritizing academics in class. Mr. Lozzi echoes this sentiment and reminds students “there's a reason they call it homework,” and points out that “if you put all the distractions aside and just did the job it would be done in 40 minutes.”

Fortnite is a great way to unwind after school so long as students know where gaming fits into their goals. Xaverian provides the structure and everyday reminders necessary to ensure that students find a healthy work/play balance and guides them to success.