Young adults are exposed to new people and experiences when they go off to college. Sometimes it can be a culture shock. Many students have bad experiences their first year or don't adjust well to the new situation. As someone who has been there, when I say taking up new hobbies can really help you cope, or even just improve your life, I genuinely mean it. These are some of the hobbies I started in hopes of improving my life.

1. Running

I know, you probably hate running, but hear me out: you don't have to run fast or far. A mile is a mile no matter how many minutes it takes you. As a long distance runner, I can tell you it helps you clear your thoughts, get mentally organized, stabilize your emotions and get you in shape...you can't go wrong with that!

2. Photography

Photography might seem boring to you, but it gives you a sense of appreciation for the world we live in. You'll begin to see beauty in everything. It helps you really look at the big picture when they're stressing out over little things. Photography can also teach you how to express yourself especially at a time where you might not know how to.

3. Writing

You don't have to be Shakespeare or even an English major to be a writer. You just need a pen, paper, and some thoughts. Nobody has to read what you write, and nobody will judge you for it. Writing literally guides you through any emotion you might feel: if you're angry, write a letter expressing exactly how you feel and why you feel that to who or what made you angry.If you are sad, write how you feel deep inside and why you think you feel like that. If you are lonely, write a memoir of the fun things you've done with your friends. All you have to do is pick up the pen and write. Trust me, it can change your life.

4. Yoga

Yoga helps you relax and de-stress, which is crucial in college. When schoolwork piles up onto your busy lifestyle it can create a tremendous amount of stress and anxiety. Yoga will relax all your muscles, release your tension, and get you in better physical shape.

5. Music

Music is a great way you can express yourself. Whether you take up an instrument or start singing, it's fun. Even if you suck at it. Really, try something new., something you never imagined yourself taking up. I started playing the harmonica, I am pretty terrible at it, but it never fails to make me happy. That is what life is about, trying new things and falling in love with them. That is one thing music can do to you.