"Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school." - Albert Einstein

Most of my college career has been spent studying and stressing about grades. It was not until my junior year that I realized how much college has affected my life, not just mentally but also physically. I spend most of my time studying and reading for tests and quizzes, but never took the time to actually cope with the stress that comes along with the responsibilities of being a full-time student.

I am majoring in communication and am grateful for the opportunity to attend college. However, we all know that college is a stressful time in a person's life. I would always push aside my stress and anxiety, but I soon realized I had to come to terms with the fact that taking five to six classes was a lot to handle. So I started to partake in some remedies of my own that would help me with my college career, or at least what is left of it.

If I am feeling overwhelmed with my homework, I take a nap before I start studying. My brain will not focus if I am tired, and I am positive yours won't either. Rest is something we all need, so if you feel like taking a 30-minute power nap, I say go for it.

It will refresh your brain and relax your body. After I finish studying, I like to take a warm shower or bath to help relax. It helps me cope with my stress, especially if I know the test I am about to take will be a challenging one.

I constantly snack throughout the day to help feed my body and mind. Without food, our bodies are not as strong as they should be, and if we are hungry, our brains will not be able to focus or study any material. I always make sure I have eaten or am at least eating healthy snacks here and there. And yes, I snack in class too. Well, only if the professor allows it, then I say, snack away!

But most importantly, I make time for myself. I work two jobs currently, and I am enrolled in summer classes. Stressful, I know. However, the greatest part that helps me get through one of the most important years of my life has been by talking to people. Meeting new people, talking to family and friends — this helps to keep me sane through not only the present year but also these past three years.

Especially when these same people have experienced what I am going through now. People who actually can relate to how difficult college is and what plans are after graduation. I guess those who say, "Everything will fall into place," are correct. Stay positive and hopeful, great things are coming our way.