For almost every college student, the spring semester has either already begun or is right around the corner. After having a wonderful winter break (hopefully), the new semester can seem intimidating, especially because most of us previously completed at least one semester and know what to expect. To help you tackle the rest of the school year, I provide you with the following do's and do-not's.
1. Do not overcommit
As an overachieving college student, you are extremely tempted to sign up for every club, activity, and organization that peaks your interest. However, with the challenges that classes provide on their own, we must create a balance between academics and extracurriculars. This is easier said than done, so do not fear putting aside an activity for a few weeks, months, or even a semester if you realize you do not have enough time to focus on classes.
2. Do take time for yourself
Everyone deserves a break every once in awhile, and it is completely OK to find yourself wishing to take your well deserved break by yourself. Whether you choose to watch Netflix, sleep, go to the gym, read, etc., you need some time for yourself to destress and step away from the constant buzz of campus.
3. Do go outside
As the semester becomes busier and professors begin to assign more and more work, it becomes easy -- and at times enticing -- to stay indoors. If you attend a school that experiences winter, remaining inside almost becomes a necessity. However, in order to keep yourself from having cabin fever, I suggest going outside, even if it is only for a few minutes. Fresh air will clear your mind and help you conquer the next to-do on your list!
4. Do not stress eat
Although stress eating does get you through tough times, in the end it is just not worth it. Stress eating will make you feel sick within hours and will also make you feel negatively towards yourself in general. You can deal with stress by working out, venting to a friend or family member, or simply taking a break. Whatever you do, do not act like Emma Stone -- do not stress eat!
5. Do know your limits
This piece of advice goes hand-in-hand with number one (do not overcommit). Sometimes, especially in college, we want to be involved in more activities than our schedules, bodies, and brains can handle. This is why it is important to know your limits. Everyone has different limits, and it is a-OK if you commit to less than someone else does; remember that some activities require more time and energy than others do!
6. Do not panic
Whatever you do, do not panic! We all know that college can become overwhelming very quickly. Keep in mind that every college student has gone through or will encounter a moment when he or she thinks they cannot 'do college' anymore. If you take a deep breath and focus on one day at a time, I promise the initial symptoms of a mini panic-attack will subside.
7. Do believe in yourself
One of the best ways to get through a semester is to have confidence and believe in yourself. Because many challenges occur during a semester, you must have faith in yourself to overcome these challenges. You WILL get through it!
8. Do not overlook valuable resources
Many students seem afraid to attend a professor's office hours, talk to the librarians, and meet with advisors. All of these resources (and more!) are readily available to any college student, and I suggest that we all take full advantage of them. With the help of professional resources, any semester will go by smoothly.
9. Do call your mom
Whoever is missing you back home, call them. Whether it takes five minutes or an hour, a phone call to home can make your day much better. Catching up with the people you love makes you realize all of the great things you are accomplishing as a college student, and it gives you a chance to hear about the new things that are happening in your home town!
10. Do not think negatively
While enduring the stress of spring semester, sometimes it is easier to think negatively than to think positively. If you make an effort to think positively, however, your semester will be much more doable!
Here's to a great semester! Good luck!
