Being Sick In College

Getting sick in college is inevitable. Lots of people living in the same dormitory, being constantly around (sick) people, and being overworked can all contribute to getting ill. I always get sick around November, and this year was no exception. Thankfully, I'm living with my family so I didn't have to fight my ear-infection/sinus-infection/ stomach bug alone. But this time last year, it was up to me to figure out what I needed to do to get better. Here are some things you realize when you are sick in college.

1. You have to become self-sufficient

Some people have always been self-sufficient when they are sick. Others have family members who helped nurse them to health. Once you hit college, you realize that true adulthood is trying to overcome your illness both logically and alone.

2. Not having your Mom or Dad around.

You don't fully appreciate your parents until you are doubled over with a stomach bug. Don't get me wrong, roommates are excellent stand-ins for your parents when you are sick. Mine even drove me to the doctors, pharmacy, and even the hospital once! No matter how great your roommate is though, their chicken noodle soup will never taste as great as your Mom's does. That's a fact.

3. You have to go to the doctor.

A lot of times when I'm sick, I'm guilty of assuming I will get better without taking any type of medication or antibiotic. I figured that it would have to pass eventually, and time is the best medication I could take. My parents were always the realists who would tell me when it was time time to see a doctor, and were always ready with Saltines in their hands to settle my stomach.

4. WebMD is not a good reference point.

With no parents around to guide me to wellness, WebMD served as my beacon for many of those ill-stuck days. Unfortunately, researching every cough I had always lead to needing to have a lung replacement.

5. You still have to go to class.

As I type this at an ungodly hour in the morning, I've been losing a battle with the stomach bug. But no matter how sick I am, my 8 a.m. class unfortunately can't be skipped because professors take attendance (another reason not to take 8 a.m. classes).

Obviously getting sick in college is not ideal, but it is something that everyone has to go through at one point or another. But hopefully, with wonderful roommates, friends, and doctors you'll feel good as new. Eat up your chicken soup and feel better soon!