Yes, I am enrolled in 20 credit hours.Twenty! For those yet to enter college, do not be worried. This is not the norm by any means, but I am here to tell you it's doable. My day typically begins the night before when I plan everything out for the next 24 hours. I thrive on coffee, little sleep and energy bars to get through the day. My schedule is so busy that somedays I think I won't survive (mental breakdowns, anyone?). BUT, I remind myself of the major payback I'll get at the end of the semester. I took 20 credit hours almost as a mental and physical adventure -- it's worth it. If you're struggling to finish your degree before graduation, or you're just up for the challenge, I am here with a list of tips on how to manage the next four months of craziness. Good luck!
1. Take the 8 a.m. classes.
I am the complete opposite of a morning person...until now. When you have over six classes to cram into one week, you have to manage your time accordingly. Sign up for the early morning course that no one wants to take, so you can spend the rest of the afternoon studying. By waiting until 11:00 am to start the day, you're not only at a disadvantage, but you pushed your entire sleeping schedule forward a few hours which means you're starting the day late and have less time to get work done later. Sometimes the early bird does get the worm...
2. Cut down on the extracurriculars.
Goodbye to the random club I signed up for freshman year! It's time to eliminate the unnecessary extracurriculars in your life, so you can fill your schedule with more study time. You'll quickly realize you cannot realistically handle hours of class on top of six different club meetings. It just won't happen, and you'll end up hating your life by the second week of the semester.
3. Live by a planner (or multiple).
You never thought you'd become a planner person until now. Basically, if I lose my planner my life is over. Write down every event, club meeting, upcoming test and homework assignment. If you're feeling tech-savvy, convert most of your schedule to an online calendar or planner. I use a physical planner, an online calendar that is connected to my email, and an online notebook for homework. All of these are connected with my weekly schedule. The planner life is now your life, sorry.
4. Schedule in "me time."
It's time to treat yo self. Pencil in an hour of time each day for self-care, whether it's working out, reading a book, taking a nap or sitting and staring at the wall -- anything but work. Your mind cannot run all day long, and you need time to refresh before continuing your day or starting a new one.
5. Make yourself socialize.
The week will never end because you'll always be worried about the endless amounts of homework you have waiting for you. Word of advice: take another break. Socialize with friends and family! Dedicate your mornings and early afternoons to school work, then you can spend guilt-free time later. If you still don't have time, strike up conversations with people in your classes. You may find a new study buddy or friend by the end of the semester.
