Unless you're a morning person, one of the worst things you can encounter are those nasty 8 a.m. classes. Chances are, no matter how hard you wish upon a star or rearrange your schedule, you will be ever so fortunate enough to find yourself enrolled in at least one 8 a.m. before your time in college comes to and end. There are few things I dislike more than waking up for my 8 a.m. class but after a few weeks, and maybe a few tears, I've found there are some things that make the process run just a little bit smoother.
1. Get Some Sleep
Staying up until two in the morning binge watching your newest obsession on Netflix might not be the best thing to do the night before. I know for some of us going to sleep early is not always the easiest thing but you’ll be glad you did when your alarm goes off in the morning. It’ll result in a much less cranky version of yourself and a slightly better start to your day.
2. Think Ahead
Use the night before to get all of your books and assignments together in one place, packed and ready to go. Take the time to plan out what you want to wear the next morning. Even though this might only save you a matter of minutes in the morning, you’ll be relieved that you did after you decide to spend an extra five minutes in bed.
3. Put Your Alarm Somewhere Else
Whether this means putting your phone in the bathroom or on the desk across the room, now you have to move so it can stop yelling at you. This forces you to actually get up and out of bed; you’re already one step closer to actually making it out of the door on time.
4. Breakfast
As if sitting through an 8 a.m. class wasn’t bad enough, the last thing you want is a stomach begging you for food. It doesn’t have to be fancy; a bowl of cereal, piece of toast, or some yogurt will do. Someone once told me that apples are another great way to gain some energy. It’s also helpful to keep a box of granola bars or breakfast biscuits handy to grab as you run out the door; you’re going to need something to keep you alert during class.
5. Drink Up
There’s nothing like a hot cup of coffee to give you a little extra boost. If coffee isn’t your thing, try a nice cold glass of water or even some juice. Don’t forget to bring some water for the road!
I’m not saying that 8 a.m. classes aren’t rough, because they certainly are, but if you can get up and make it to class, you’re on the road to success. You worked hard to get through the morning and you deserve a reward, and by reward, I mean a nap!
