1. Time Management
Time management is the most important thing to master in college. As a college student you are always juggling our time between class, studying, extra curricular activities, and of course, the occasional partying. Time management really is the key to be able to do all of these things and still have time to eat and sleep and breathe. My suggestion is to invest in a planner. Target has a lot of cute girly planners, and a lot of gender neutral options as well. My personal favorite planner brand is Erin Condren.
2. Study Groups
I am not a fan of study groups. I'm always afraid to be that one person holding the group back. And most likely, everyone else has that fear as well. So stop being afraid and start a study group! It's really good to have people to keep you accountable with your studies. Plus, that fear of being the dumbest person will encourage you to study extra hard! Study groups are also a good way to make friends, especially if you're a shy person.
3. Hydration
It may sound dumb, but drinking water is the answer to everything. If you're on a big campus and you have to walk a mile to each class- water. Your skin is freaking out because of all the junk food you've been eating- water. You partied too hard on a Sunday night and you have a test Monday morning- water... and probably some Tylenol for the hangover. Water, water, water!
4. Comfy Clothing
Invest in some comfy clothes that are NOT your pajamas. Everyone says that you can wear whatever you want to class, which is true... But no one wants to be friends with the kid who shows up to class in their family guy pajama pants. No need to break out the jeans, don't get crazy. But girls, maybe invest in a new pair of yoga pants, and a t-shirt that isn't a dress. And boys, maybe some nice joggers, and a clean shirt? These are all great ideas that will leave you feeling comfy, and looking like you tried a little bit before you left your dorm. PLUS, getting up and getting ready before class really makes you feel good about yourself. Don't get into a slump, take care of yourself.
5. Support
Last but not least, support. College is NOT easy. You're dealing with school and friends and all these different emotions, plus you're becoming a real living adult all at the same time. Having a good support system can really help you, especially when things get hard, because they probably will. College is stressful for just about everyone and it is okay to ask for help. Too much stress can affect your grades, your relationships, and even your health. Stress can lead to sever anxiety and even depression. If you feel like college stress is affecting your life to an extreme, reach out to your college counselor. Their job is to help you deal with stress and other emotional obstacles you might face as a college student. Some schools even offer support groups for stuff like that. And look! Another way to make friends!
So there are 5 of my personal tips and tricks to surviving college. Whether you are a senior in high school, starting college in a few months, or senior in college about to graduate and start your journey in the real REAL world, at least one of these things can help you along your way. Good luck!
