Dear stressed out college student,

You're probably coming up on midterms, which means you're overloaded with papers, homework and tests. If you're anything like me, you're also trying to balance extra-curricular activities, sleep, and still have somewhat of a social life. Believe me, I'm struggling right along with you. I know the stresses of what you're going through, but I'm here to tell you that you're going to get through it. How do I know? Because I have faith in you.

First things first, just relax and take a deep breath. Easier said than done, right? Just do it--I promise you'll feel better. Try and calm down before you get started on your homework and studying, or you'll be too distracted to even remember what you're "memorizing."

Second, work your way through each thing you have. Take your time--make sure you are actually understanding the material instead of just memorizing it for the test. Work your way through one thing at a time instead of trying to do three things at once. You'll get things done faster and you won't be as stressed during it all.

Third, remember that the overall outcome of your test scores and grades do not define you or your intelligence. You are more than a number on a piece of paper. You are worth more than a letter on your transcript. You are more than your stress, your anxiety and the dark circles under your eyes. So next time you go to class wearing sweatpants, no makeup, and your hair in a bun from staying up until 3 a.m., remember that you are trying your best and that's all you can do.

So to the stressed out college student, please don't give up. Push through and continue to work hard. You can do this. You are intelligent, you are capable and you will do great! Don't let the stresses of school cause you to miss out on the best times of your life. Don't get discouraged when you didn't receive the grade you wanted on that Anatomy test, just continue to work hard for the next one. Keep working hard, that's all anyone can ask of you.

Love,

A friend who understands.