A Letter to my Little

Jennifer Thomas
Pi Beta Phi

With the semester back in full swing there are a couple things that one should keep in mind in order to be as productive as possible, especially with formals every weekend and spring break right around the corner. The first step is to cut the clutter and this goes for every aspect of your life. It is easy to get overwhelmed very quickly and suddenly you find yourself unable to do anything. My big frequently reminds me that if it is not your drama, then it is not your drama and there is no sense in letting someone else drag you into it. Also, a cleaner more organized environment makes it easier to think and get things done. Just set aside 10 minutes or so to straighten things up, I promise it will be worth it in the long run.

Another huge tip I learned from my big is to stay in shape. Stress often leads to overeating which is more than likely the last thing you want to deal with coming up on swim suit season. So instead of taking out your troubles on a bag of chips or a bowl of ice cream, head to the Rec for an hour or so a day. Before you know it, you will feel a million times better and you will look better too.

Spring is an exciting time, but it is one with very few breaks and for those of us from out of state, that means very few (if any) trips back home. Set aside time each week to touch base with your family even if it is just for a couple of minutes. It is nice to hear what is going on at home and your parents will appreciate the thought (especially since they are paying for you to come here).

After you have made time for your school work, your friends, and your parents, make sure to set aside time for yourself. Believe it or not, but you do not actually have to be social all the time, in fact that would be exhausting! Read a book, go shopping, or watch a movie…whatever it takes to help you relax and unwind. Being at peace with yourself is a huge key to success in any environment.

Finally, have fun! College, for most people, is the most amazing time of their lives. As Tom Petty once said, “You have four years to be irresponsible here. Relax. Work is for people with jobs. You'll never remember class time, but you'll remember time you wasted hanging out with your friends. So, stay out late. Go out on a Tuesday with your friends when you have a paper due Wednesday. Spend money you don't have. Drink 'til sunrise. The work never ends, but college does.”

Jennifer is a freshman studying journalism and creative writing. You may contact her at jnthomas@crimson.ua.edu.