College dropouts. The one thing you may be afraid to become if you don't stay up until 4 a.m. studying for that test in three hours. College is hard. It tears you apart from the inside and you end up sitting in the middle of your floor, covered in papers and used tissues, crying because your head hurts too much to even do basic math. I have been here WAY too many times to count. But here are some ways that helped me, and I hope to help you not become a college dropout.

1. Plan everything out

I know, it seems like a lot, yes? But believe me, planning everything out has always helped me. Use your judgement. You know how quickly it'll take you to finish your writing assignment, but you're not certain how long it'll take to get your math homework done. Due the hard assignment first! I'd rather take my time figuring out something I don't know than to have to end up turning it in late because I didn't have time to finish it.

2. Be proficient

Plan out and do whatever is first. That should be common sense.

3. Plan time to relax

Make time to watch a movie, eat, or grab a coffee in between assignments. That way you're not overwhelmed with doing everything at once. Of course, don't forget about your assignments that you plan to do afterwards.

4. Stay hydrated and full of food

Don't end up starving yourself or quenching your thirst. Stay on top of eating. Don't be ashamed if you end up having to plan your meals out ahead of time, I always have to just to make sure I'm getting all of the nutrients I need to stay healthy.

5. Don't miss classes purposefully

Ditching a class may be all fun at the time, but you may end up missing something completely important and crucial to your career. Do not miss your classes unless you absolutely half to. By absolutely have to, I mean if you are contagiously sick or you have to go home for a family emergency.

There are many things that have helped me, but as a junior in college, these are the guidelines I stand by to make sure I'm not going to end up getting too far behind. Good luck!