As college students, our free time is usually spent binge-watching Netflix and scrolling hours on end through various social media accounts. Tired of skimming textbooks, we turn to our online getaways and waste away the hours. The idea of reading for pleasure is lost to us because it seems so similar to homework, and to try to fit it into our busy lives is tough. Despite these struggles, reading can come to the rescue!

1. Knowledge/Learning

If you find a subject you are interested in or intrigued by, reading more on that subject makes reading not only more enjoyable, but you learn about something you like.

2. Expanding Vocabulary/Analytical Skills

One element of reading that I personally like is that fact that my vocabulary and analysis skills are always improving. Adding words to your lexicon makes you more credible and seemingly more professional. A large vocabulary is helpful when writing papers and exchanging emails with your professors. I've found that reading has improved my recognition for literary devices as well;I notice foreshadowing, alliterations, tragic flaws, etc. with much more ease just from reading. I have also furthered my appreciation for the development of the characters and the plot.

3. Stress Reliever

Staring at a bright screen for countless hours throughout the day is terrible for you, and can strain your eyes and lead to future issues concerning eyesight. Reading gives your eyes a nice break from bright screens. You are also less likely to get distracted reading a book than reading something online because you can easily switch to other apps or websites. When reading a paper book, you can become fully engrossed with no outside distractions.

4. Relaxation

When you are stressed and drained from homework and online drama, reading is a great escape. You don't have to worry about who commented or posted what. Reading is a reality break.

5. Social

Though it sounds super nerdy, book clubs can be a great way to learn more about the aspects of a novel. Discussing a book with others can shed light on the author, create theories behind the plot twist, or express the love for the ending. This is also a great way to meet new people!

6. Imagination

Something I am a strong believer of i “the book is always better than the movie.” Books provide more detail, a better grasp for character development, and more allowance for your imagination to roam free. When you read, you can picture the scenery exactly how you like. You can envision the characters how you perceive them to be. You can imagine everything the way you want.

7. Self Realization

You learn things about yourself, such as what topics interest you, what genre you enjoy and which authors you appreciate. Reading also transitions to other parts of your life. Quotes inspire you, parallels are drawn between a character and someone in your life and events shed light on personal encounters.

Put down your phone and pick up a book. It's rewarding, and you'll find it's more fun than you think.