12 College Hacks You Won't Learn In Class
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Student Life

12 College Hacks You Won't Learn In Class

Make your school year interesting with these tips and tricks

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12 College Hacks You Won't Learn In Class
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The land of higher education can be quite tricky to navigate. It also doesn't make it easier with the COVID-19 pandemic that is going on right now which adds another layer of hardships students must face. As the school year begins during these uncertain times it is important to not stress and overwhelm yourself. With this piece of advice do realize that you can make college life easier for yourself. Here are 12 college hacks you won't learn in class:

 Use rewards while studying

Sitting down and forcing yourself to read a whole chapter is difficult and it is better said than done. Try this trick to make it easier on you that I like to call the candy hack: 1) Lay the textbook open flat. 2) Place a piece of candy every few paragraphs. 3) Start reading and when you get to a piece of candy, reward your studious reading with a little treat.

Wet some paper towels to cool down your drink

Are you in desperate need of cold drinks fast? What you can do is chill a can or glass bottle quickly with a paper towel. First wet a paper towel and make it slightly damp. The second step is to wrap the damp paper towel around the drink and place it in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. After 15 minutes the drink will be chilled and ready to enjoy.

Use dryer sheets to make a room smell clean and fresh

If a room smells bad, there is a quick and effective way to make the room start smelling fresh without having to buy expensive air freshener. To freshen up a room, get at least one dryer sheet and tape it to the ac unit or a fan. Turn it on and in minutes you'll have a fresh and clean smelling room.

Take advantage of student discounts

Lots of stores and restaurants offer student discounts for college students. Even though they don't openly advertise the student discounts, don't be afraid to ask for them. A few college discounts include: Amazon, if you have a .edu email you can join Amazon Student which is 2-day free shipping, unlimited photo storage as well through Prime photos. Also for Spotify whether it is for a party, study session, or road trip, students receive unlimited access to music for 50% off. Spotify Premium, which removes ads and allows unrestricted use of playlists on smartphones, is a great way for students to get the music they want when they want.

Take notes using different colored pens

If you consider yourself a visual learner, then this hack is for you. Take notes the old fashioned way with pen and paper instead of on your laptop. Not only will you remember more when you write information down by hand over typing on a computer, but it is fun getting to use different colored pens. These different colors will help you to determine the differences of the information you write down.

Have a designated space for studying

Avoid studying in your bedroom or dorm room at all costs. Plan to always study away from where you sleep so that you train your brain not to associate studying with resting. The library is a good option. If you must study or work from your bedroom or home make sure to make an area that is clutter free your workspace and never use your bed!

Eat something before you consume alcohol

Having a little something in your stomach can help you better pace your drinking and make you feel better the next day. Aim for something with a good amount of carbs and fat to start your night when you decide to have some fun.

Begin your job search early

The best time to start researching potential employers is while you're still in school. Act as if you're looking for work in your field as you move through your studies

Make friends with people in your class

Not only will you make your social circle much bigger, but having friends in a class together will help you out in the long run when you do need them. Whether you missed class, you can ask them and they can send you their notes. Or if there is something that is confusing you can reach out to them and ask for advice and they would expect for you to return the favor in the future.

Use the soda pop tabs and curtain rings to make room for your closet

Get a soda pop tab or a curtain ring and place it on your hangers to save much more closet space if you have a small closet or crowded dorm room. You can use this hack for anything to not just college.

NEVER pay full price for textbooks

Yes the campus bookstore may be super convenient for you, but lets face it, those overpriced books will not be worth it with tuition already sky high. Instead try to find the book online that is free and if you must use Amazon or Chegg that offer reduced prices and rentals as well.

Have a roommate to split costs

If you are staying home while in college then you are saving money. However, you are not getting the full college experience. If you live on campus or away from home be sure to have a roommate to split costs and make the cost of living much easier. Also, become a residential or facilities assistant. Most universities offer this program and not only you get free on campus housing or reduced, you gain leadership skills and may also receive other benefits like a meal plan and pay.

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