College is now back in full swing. What lies ahead are deadlines, exams, presentations, and a plethora of other draining assignments. Among the sea of homework that is surrounding you, there is also events, meetings, work, volunteer projects, and a social life that you have to try to balance as well. It can be pretty challenging at times, but there a few things that you can do now that will make a whole lot of difference come the end of the semester.
1. Start your homework EARLY.
There is a reason why your professor opens the homework up in advance. Don't wait until the last minute to get it done. Work on it earlier before the deadline so you have enough time to understand the problems and ask questions on those that you are having trouble on. Plus, when all your classmates are stressing to get it done the night before it's due, you'll be mellow and feel very accomplished.
2. Invest in a planner.
Seriously. There is no way that someone can remember all the due dates for their classes, dates of important events, and other important information. Get something you can write everything down on so you have it all in one place and can effectively use it. Also, allot yourself some time each day to update your planner and familiarize yourself with things that are coming up.
3. Budget.
Yes, I know those Comfort Colors t-shirts are awesome and yes, I know eating Mexican food with your friends is always a fun time, but don't be afraid to hold off on some things to make sure you have adequate money for the future. It's nice to be able to save up some money for more important things, or a rainy day. Plus, if something were to go wrong where you needed money, you would not be in such a pickle. Start saving and putting back some money now because it will pay off in the future.
4. Have some time to yourself.
Take a few hours to really get back in the zone and feel refreshed. Go on a run, journal, catch up on some Netflix, hang out with some friends, or whatever you need to do to eliminate some stress. The semester can get pretty hectic, so make sure you give yourself a regular detox so you feel more equipped for what lies ahead.
5. Get enough sleep.
Seriously. Don't pull all-nighters every night. Actually get some rest. If you don't, you'll definitely feel it not only physically but mentally as well. Your grades and performance deserve some good rest, so make sure you get some shut eye when you can.
6. Have a strong friend group.
Some of the best motivation to continue on when the going gets tough comes from the friends you surround yourself with. Most of the time, these friends are going through the same things, so it is very encouraging when you have others to lift you on a regular basis who know just what is going on in your life. Don't forget to love on them too, because teamwork makes the dream work (or in this case, it helps to not have too many breakdowns over the semester).
7. Eat some ice cream.
There is nothing that a tub of Ben & Jerry's can not fix.
8. Trust in God.
For the upcoming days when you feel like you have nothing left in you and you don't think you're doing anything right, rely on God and His promises. Wipe the dust off your Bible and read some of the Word. Give all your worries, fears, and doubts to the Lord and ask him for strength to make it through. Always know that this is one of the best things that will help you through the semester.
9. Have fun!
Enjoy the time of life you are in. Don't get so wrapped up in the things to come. Worry about the present and the people you are surrounded with. College is about making memories, and these memories will help you make it through the days ahead.
