It is getting towards the middle of the semester and, admit it, we have all kind of dozed off or have let our head droop during a class. Perhaps it was during an 8am or maybe during lunchtime when you are hungry or in the afternoon when the only place you want to be is in bed with a fuzzy blanket. Especially during the long, dark winter months it is hard to get out of bed and stay awake. I know the feeling too. What is a student to do?!

Fear not, my fellow college peeps! Here are some ways that I have tried and others have suggested so that you will be less likely to fall asleep in class!

1. Get Up Early

This actually works if you get up a half an hour or an hour before class; you are more likely to see a lot more people and make you more alert. This is great because you are awake and might not fall asleep... and you also get to enjoy the sun rising and see its beauty.

2. Get Breakfast!

Studies show that if you eat a "rousing breakfast" you stay awake and are more alert. This is because you are getting the nutrients and good stuff that your body needs. In a nutshell, eat breakfast, stay awake. Okay.

3. Coffee?? (Or tea!)

Some people need their morning coffee, some people might not wake up with coffee. Either way, people use coffee to wake up and get their body moving! (Plus it just tastes good!)

4. Water!

Maybe not this much water, BUT, water is refreshing and cold and it wakes up your body as well. So for those afternoon classes, dust off those many water bottles from orientation and stock up on water!

5. Work on other stuff/Occupy yourself!

Yes, Facebook and doing other homework during class might be frowned upon in class, however, if you can listen and still work, this might actually be a good thing for you! I just did it in one of my classes and I actually learned more things! Useful if you can multi-task!

6. Snack!

Bringing a snack to class helps with avoiding a doze because you are eating! Taking breaks between note taking and taking a bite might help you focus and stay alert!

7. Doodle

On a piece of paper, side of your notes.... or on a friend?? This might be another way to occupy your body and mind in class; my mom does this while she is on the phone and it helps her concentrate on the conversation. Try it out!

Last but not least...

Stretch or get up!

If you are feeling a bit drowsy during a very long, extended class period, just take a moment and stretch! It helps you wake up a little bit more and gets your body and mind active while you work. If this doesn't work, just get up and go outside the classroom to give your brain a 5 second break then get back in there and do it!

I hope you might find this non-exhaustive list of things to try to wake yourself up before or during a class helpful! Try a few out and see what works for you! I personally get up early most days and eat breakfast so that I'm doing something during class. Who knows! You might find something else to try!