Instead of learning how to manage his time and show some discipline in committing to a reasonable schedule, this kid took neuroenhancers to help compensate for

Instead of learning how to manage his time and show some discipline in committing to a reasonable schedule, this kid took neuroenhancers to help compensate for "partying all weekend, or spen[ding] the last week being high." Just as the kid who reads Cliffs Notes instead of The Iliad deprives himself of an intellectual experience, this guy deprived himself of the opportunity to train himself to develop natural work habits that he will need as he embarks on a career.