Whether you spent your summer traveling, taking an online class, interning, or laying on your couch eating Doritos (nothing wrong with that!), the transition back to school is never easy. Freshmen or senior, each year comes with new challenges, but a few remain the same: to go out or stay in, to add that extra course, managing a job on top of your workload, or something as simple as choosing whether you have time to make it to the gym. There is no sugar coating it- college is extremely demanding, but with a balanced approach it can all be very manageable.

PRIORITIZE what is important to YOU.

“I have so much to do, I have no time to sleep, eat or workout.” Stop. You have time for what is important if it is going to help you perform better in the long run. The hour you spend away from your books now will enable you to be more alert and motivated later.

Find a healthy outlet.

Do not fall into the trap of putting off an important errand or assignment to partake in a “cooler” option. If you need to clear your head, hit the gym, take a walk or read a book for leisure.

INDULGE, but keep it reasonable.

I say this in reference to physical activity, food and however you choose to enjoy yourself when you “go out”. As far as finding a healthy outlet goes, some may find themselves with very minimal “me time” to spare; it is okay if your routine has changed. Change is good. Don’t sweat it. Cook a meal with a friend instead of settling for take out for the third consecutive day in a row. Yeah, that pizza or Chinese tastes pretty good, but your body will thank you!

By taking a balanced approach towards all that college has to offer, there is a much lower chance you will be left feeling burnt out by the time it's Thanksgiving break and you have to face your parents.

I promise enjoying college life and being a dedicated student is possible. Work hard, play hard.