It’s hard being an independent college student because there’s so much that’s reliant on you, such as managing your own bank account, keeping up with assignments, and deciding what’s best for you. This means that being a university student adds a lot of stress onto our normal schedules, but here are some ways to manage it:

1 - Prioritize (with lists)

Whether it be mental or physical, making lists can help keep you organized and on-task. They alleviate the worry of deviating away from what’s most important (#1 on your list)/what’s due first. Prioritizing also helps you figure out which tasks will need the most time and focus and which ones you can complete without breaking a sweat.

2 - Eliminate procrastination

Procrastination is really Satan, but don’t worry—your work will always get done in the end. But procrastination means that this work will be stressful and probably not your best. Eliminate procrastination by reminding yourself each day of that paper or project due on Friday and try to at least start it a week in advance and work on a little bit each day so that it doesn’t seem so looming.

3 - Take a break

While school is obviously important, taking a break is of equal value. Taking a break allows you to step back from the stressful picture and realize what you’re doing. If you’re cooped up in your dorm working on the same paper for four hours, it’s time to step back and realize that you can’t be happy doing work 24/7. Take advantage of campus functions and events and don’t be afraid to text a friend or go across the hall to a friend’s dorm for some relief.