- Do not procrastinate. This is not high school anymore! Start working on assignments and get ahead on reading whenever you can. It'll help keep the stress level to a minimum and keep you from cramming before deadlines!
- Refrain from all-nighters. Being sleep deprived impairs your memory and ability to function the next day, regardless of how much you've studied. (You can avoid all-nighters by not procrastinating!!)
- Master the art of power naps. Sometimes a small nap is all you need to get re-energized and keep you alert for the rest of the day.
- Drink in moderation. Doing something fun doesn't always have to involve liquor and beer.
- Use protection. Don't put yourself at risk. And don't let anyone pressure you into doing it; sex shouldn't be scary or emotionally/physically painful.
- Keep healthy snacks available. You'll be more likely to eat junk food if you buy it or keep it around. Fruits and veggies are the way to go!
- Don't eat to fight stress. Combat stress the right way and HIT THE GYM!
- Keep in touch with family and friends. If you're homesick, the people you love are only a phone call/Skype call away!
- Stay goal-oriented. College is fun, but remember why you're there and stay focused on the big picture.
- Limit distractions. Find a quiet place to study, and set aside your phone and social networking while you do. You'll get things done faster and retain more information. Stay away from study group floors at the library if you get distracted easily!
- Stick to a routine. Once you learn to manage your time and habituate studying/sleeping/exercising/socializing, your body and mind will learn how to adjust to your daily routine without getting too overwhelmed.
- Be ready for change. The transition into college is never an easy thing. Keep an open mind and heart, and view change as an opportunity to learn and grow.
- Get involved. Joining campus clubs and organizations are a great way to meet and connect with people who share some of the same interests as you.
- Keep calm. Don't let stress get the best of you! Stress can wear down your immune system and lead to getting sick around testing times (it sucks, trust me). Take it one day at a time.
Best of luck this upcoming semester to all new and returning students! HOOK 'EM \m/ (:
