College gives you more freedom than you have ever had the opportunity to have before which is why so many people remember their college days as being the best. Between classes, hanging out with friends and essay writing, you may find yourself debating whether the pressure is really worth it. Let us assure you it is! Read our top tips to surviving college and university below.
Start over!
College and university should be life experiences you choose to embrace, not ones you want to hide from. Make the effort to try new things and make new friends, even if it pushes you out of your comfort zone. Remember to be yourself and be prepared to work hard. It’s not going to be a walk through the park, but you’ll survive. Get ahead of your classmates by starting background reading early and keep on top of your homework and coursework – thank us later!
Time matters
College life is very different to school. If you’re lucky, you might be able to choose what you wear to college or be able to leave the premises at lunch time but inside, the same rules apply. Expect to be handed assignments from day one. Ease the pressure and set yourself a timetable and stick to it. Structure it based on how much time you will need for each study you take, taking into consideration the time extracurricular activities will take up. You might even try to design cheer uniforms for your team, or pick up another fun hobby.
Join a club
Clubs are the ideal place to make new friends. You might even learn something that will help you later on in life! Not only is joining a club great to put on your CV, you’ll be a part of experiences you may never have had the opportunity to be a part of by helping others.
Maintain a healthy diet
Maintaining a healthy diet at college and university isn’t as challenging as students expect it to be. Avoid splashing cash on expensive take always and make your own meals instead. If you live in shared accommodation, take it in turns to make your own specialities! You won’t always have time to knock up a healthy dish, so prepare your food in advance or make more than you need to refrigerate it for the next day.
Don’t be afraid to speak to your teacher
It’s OK if you feel a little overwhelmed by college or university. If you need additional support when attempting to write your assignment, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your teacher will be more than happy to assist you and would much rather be aware of your concerns to provide you with extra support where required.
Get enough sleep
We all love sleeping, but sometimes we don’t get enough of it. Getting between 7-8 hours’ sleep a night is vital to ensure you stay physically and mentally fit. You should avoid spending hours on end finishing that all important essay and start it in plenty of time instead. Sleep is one of the first things students cut down when they feel stressed. As little as 3 nights of incomplete sleep can make you feel tired and drowsy, resulting in a lack of focus. Stay motivated this term and get a sufficient amount of sleep.
photo credit: melystu George and his fan club at Universidad de Oriente in 2009 via photopin (license)
