I’m Jefrina Jayaraj and This is How I Work

Jefrina Jayaraj
Sep 5, 2018 · 3 min read

Location: Duluth, Minnesota

Current Gig: Senior at the University of Minnesota — Duluth studying business

One word that describes how you work: Ardently

What apps/software/tools can’t you live without? Why?

Google Calendar, Notes, Spotify, iBook

What’s your best time-saving shortcut/life hack?

Before I go to sleep or as soon as I wake up, I make a list of everything I have to do to get myself out the door for the day, as well as major goals I want to accomplish that day (homework assignments, errands, etc.). It sounds super simple, but it makes a huge difference in my productivity when I feel like I have a purpose, and it helps me start my day feeling like a woman with plan.

What everyday thing are you better at than everyone else? What’s your secret?

I’m an excellent planner and organizer. It’s something I’ve always known about myself, but it was only when I started taking business classes that I realized how important it is and how I can really make use of it my professional career. My “secret” is an obsession with lists. They help me stay organized, and I’m always writing and rewriting lists to stay on top of my tasks. It’s how I manage to be on several exec boards, handle academics and somehow also have social life (sometimes!).

What do you listen to while you work?

I’m actually very particular about the music I listen to when I work or study. I’ve played the violin and have been in an orchestra for much of my school life, so I quite enjoy classical music. While many dismiss it as “boring” or “sounding all the same”, I’ve been trained to find the unique story in each piece, and it’s very calming for me. It’s almost as if my mind sharpens and focuses on the familiar notes and flow of music, so it’s the only music I can listen to when I study. I highly recommend the London Philharmonic Orchestra on Spotify — my favorite piece is the End Titles Suite from “The Duchess”.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

To sacrifice and give in where I can, but to stand strong and unyielding where I cannot.

Where do you find inspiration and new ideas?

I find inspiration and new ideas in my daydreams. It sounds odd, but I’ve always had a very overactive and creative imagination, and I find myself constantly thinking with my head up in space.

What’s your favorite quote?

Some of my biggest passions in life are in girl’s education, gender equality and women’s rights at a global scale. I’m very inspired by the story of Malala Yousafzai, and one of her quotes has always resonated within me:

“So here I stand, one girl among many. I speak not for myself, but so those without a voice can be heard. Those who have fought for their rights. Their right to live in peace. Their right to be treated with dignity. Their right to equality of opportunity. Their right to be educated.”

Welcome to a place where words matter. On Medium, smart voices and original ideas take center stage - with no ads in sight. Watch
Follow all the topics you care about, and we’ll deliver the best stories for you to your homepage and inbox. Explore
Get unlimited access to the best stories on Medium — and support writers while you’re at it. Just $5/month. Upgrade