Getting through college can be tough. It can actually be incredibly difficult. Many don't manage to get through it, sometimes they do, but not all in one stint. Sometimes the college road leads you in many directions that may be far different than what you planned or anticipated, and that is perfectly fine. College changes people, generally for the better, and it aims to prepare you for the "real world" and to be a productive member of society.
I think the singularly most important part of surviving college is to stay healthy, both physically and mentally. Mental health is something that is greatly challenged in college. Suicide rates are very high due to extreme changes in students lives and high stress levels. Most, if not all, schools provide free counseling services to students. Part of staying healthy is also physical. We've all heard of the "freshmen fifteen". In all honesty, its not that hard to avoid. No one forces you to drive around campus, take the elevator, drink in excess, or eat strictly ramen. Take the stairs, walk everywhere, and watch what you eat. It is possible to eat healthy or at least somewhat healthy. Learn about what is and is not good for your body. Also, exercise is key. I know my school has a gym that's free for students. Learn how to work out (safely of course), and hit the gym a couple times a week and the freshmen fifteen will stay away.
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Time management is another extreme problem that many first time (or even returning) college students run into. High school was a lot easier, and time seemed to be abundant. To keep all the assignments, exams, and activities in line, use a panner or agenda (your school might even give you one). Also, write up daily to do lists to prioritize everything you have to do, and move unfinished items to the next day. Make a daily schedule, with your classes, time to get work done and include sleep. Seriously, go to bed and get a fair amount of sleep (7-8 hours). Sleep is 100% necessary for your body to function at its best.
Have fun when you can. All work will damage your mental health, and that's number one. College isn't just for getting a degree and accumulating loans. Its for trying new things, meeting new people, and having adventures. Schedule fun activities into your daily schedules. Of course, weekends and evenings are the best time for fun stuff (not during classes). These new experiences can often include school help events. My school holds traditional and recreational events in addition to events sponsored by residence staff, and student development staff. Each of these are different, fun, and are worth checking out, even if it seems out of your conform zone.
Who are your college days best spent with? Good friends, of course. Quality is far more important than quantity here. We've all seen those gigantic groups of friends, who happen to secretly hate each other. My preference lies with a few really good, close friends. Now that you are away from home, your friends act as your new support system. The friends you first meet during orientation are not always the ones you keep throughout your life. Its okay to grow apart, because you do change in college. Lastly, treat yourself. This goes beyond going for new adventures. You deserve to be rewarded. Unfortunately, you need to rely on yourself now to be rewarded. Go out for a night on the town with friends, get a mani/pedi, or a new haircut. The possibilities are endless and can be very simple. You can do simple things during times that you're very busy, like a nice snack, or something more luxurious if you're able like a shopping trip. No matter what, you need to focus on you. To get through college, you need to be aware of how you're taking care of yourself, and how you are doing.
